Curling is now ND’s official sport

With the stroke of a pen Governor Burgum signed legislation making curling North Dakota’s official state sport.

The bill was introduced on behalf of Alaina Schmidt, a sixth grader at Horizon Middle School. Schmidt testified on the bill before committees in both Houses – and she says she worked very hard to get it passed. “Curling is a good sport for hanging out with people and it’s good exercise in the winter.”

North Dakota has 11 curling clubs – including Grand Forks – more per capita than any other state. The state’s first curling club was founded in 1901 in Drayton.

During a ceremony marking the bill signing Governor Burgum thanks Schmidt for bringing the idea forward. “Curling is a lifelong activity and the ultimate team sport, embodying all that we love about sports in North Dakota: honesty and fair play, respect for the rules and one’s opponent, and humility with good sportsmanship.”

The bill passed the Senate 30-17 and the House 72-21.