Long-time Yorkton resident, and television personality Linus Westberg was digging through some old papers and came upon a piece of Yorkton curling history.
“I found in my files of a historic moment in Yorkton’s Curling history. It was the start for the Richardson rink on their way to their famous Curling legacy,” wrote Westberg.
It was 60-years ago when a men’s curling final was held in Yorkton at the old curling rink.
The weekend action ended late in the evening with a packed house and Ernie Richardson and his now historic crew taking the title.
“They went back to the hotel after much celebration and were all set for much needed rest,” related Westberg in a letter to Yorkton This Week. “I quickly went to the hotel and said ‘Ernie, get dressed we have to have you and the rink on television in a live interview.’
“I still remember his reply “Linus, it’s late, the guys are in bed,” and I replied “Ernie the curling world is waiting.””
So the famous skip rousted his team from bed and headed to the television station for an interview.
“He was very special, very obliging as were his teammates,” offered Westberg in the letter. “They all dressed and came over to the TV station (CKOS-TV). I called our camera man (Wib Westby), and had them all on for a very special conversation that was so well received by so many.”
The win in Yorkton was one of the early ones for the Richardson rink skip Ernie along with Wes Richardson, lead; Sam Richardson, second and Arnold Richardson, third; that would go one to so many accolades.
“From this first victory in Yorkton, this rink went on to the International fame,” said Westberg. “They won everything and most important, this Richardson rink made such a wonderful impact on the great game of curling. They were so good with everyone, fans, press, young curlers and such great ambassadors of the game. It started in Yorkton.”
