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Bunnock tournament more than just a game

Aug 1, 2016 | 4:16 PM

Thousands flocked to Macklin for the annual bones tournament but for many teams the event wasn’t just about winning.

Team Earl travelled almost six hours from Buffalo Narrows to Macklin Regional Park on Friday, July 29 to play in the Bunnock World Championship. The team name is in memory of a player that couldn’t make it this year.

“Our friend passed away from cancer so we’re here and we’re team Earl,” a team member said.

They said half the team travelled just to celebrate the life of their friend, and most weren’t even supposed to play. But after another team dropped out, the supporters were drafted. By their own admission, they did “alright.”

Other teams didn`t have as noble a name but came from just as far.

Kerry Rothweiler, with the Alberta Drinking Team squad, drove four-and-a-half hours from Calahoo, Alberta to play. It was her first time at the tournament and she said she plans to come back next year.

“It’s fantastic,” Rothweiler said. “It doesn`t matter what the scores are because it is just such a fun time.” 

Despite thunderstorm storm warnings the poor weather held off and the tournament went off without a hitch.

Guests estimated 4,000 people filled Macklin Lake Regional Park for the the 24th Bunnock World Championship, which is held every long weekend, rain or shine.

Greg Higgins is battlefordsNOW’s city municipal affairs and health reporter. He can be reached at ghiggins@jpbg.ca or tweet him @realgreghiggins.