Experiments conducted in Switzerland as early as 1924 have been aimed at conclusive proof that sweeping creates desired effects on the movement of a curling rock. Meyer and Werlich of Galt, Ontario, have more recently conducted experiments, as has Muirhead of Medicine Hat, Alberta.
In general it is agreed that sweeping plays a major role in the game of curling. Research shows that pebble on the ice surface is the most important factor to effective sweeping. Sweeping causes a melting effect on the pebble and thus temporarily creates a film of moisture which reduces friction on the surface. Therefore, a vigorous and powerful sweeping action is essential to cut into the pebble and create this effect. It is also theorized that the vigorous sweeping action immediately in front of the rock cuts the air currents, creating a partial vacuum thus reducing air resistance on the rock. Of course, the most obvious reason for brandishing the broom is to remove debris from the path of the curling rock.
The foregoing reasons for sweeping preclude that sweeping must be vigorous in order to be effective. The main ingredients to effective sweeping are power and rhythm. It is the person, not the broom, which determines the effectiveness of the sweeping. Thus sweeping is an art which can and must be mastered by ladies and men alike. . . |
