Hey there, young curling enthusiasts! Are you ready for another exciting journey into the captivating world of curling? Today, we’re going to delve into a fascinating aspect of this popular sport called the “Last Stone Draw.” Grab your brooms and let’s slide right into the action!
What is the Last Stone Draw?
The Last Stone Draw is a crucial rule in curling that determines which team has the advantage in scoring points at the end of each end – a term used instead of “inning” in curling. Each team takes turns sliding their stones towards the center of the house, aiming to position them as close as possible to the “button.”
Understanding the Strategy:
Now, let’s dive into the strategic aspect of the Last Stone Draw. The team that successfully has the stone closest to the button after all the deliveries have been made gains the upper hand. But keep in mind, the team without the last stone also has a chance to make an impactful move!
Valuing the Last Stone:
The team with the last stone has both an advantage and a disadvantage. On one hand, they get the final opportunity to score points by knocking their opponent’s stone out of the way or strategically placing their stone closer to the button. On the other hand, they must ensure they don’t give their opponents a chance to steal points or block their path.
Scoring with the Last Stone:
To score with the last stone, the team needs to ensure their stone is closest to the button, earning them the coveted point. However, if an opponent’s stone is closer, the team must try to knock it out of play or realign the stones to secure their point. The game of cat and mouse intensifies here, creating an intriguing battle of skill and strategy.
Tense Moments and Rule Limitations:
There are certain limitations to the Last Stone Draw that add excitement to the game. If the last stone is pushed out of play, it is no longer in play during that end. Additionally, if both teams’ stones are considered “equally distant” from the button, guess what? No points are awarded! This keeps the suspense alive until the very end.
Now that we’ve unraveled the Last Stone Draw, you have another valuable trick up your sleeve to enhance your prowess in curling. Remember to exercise keen strategy and technique in every end and make the most out of your last stone! Get out on that ice, sharpen those skills, and embrace the thrill of curling.