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The passage highlights the significant role that a Stranraer businessman, Hamilton “Hammy” McMillan, and his family have played in the development and success of curling in Scotland and internationally. In 1967, six years after purchasing the North West Castle hotel in Stranraer, the McMillans innovatively added the world’s first hotel with an in-built ice-rink. This rink has since become a key training ground, producing numerous European, World, and Olympic curling champions.
The rink was inspired by local curlers who had to travel long distances to practice the sport and was partly a business decision to keep customers at the hotel. Hammy McMillan Sr. himself began curling at 40 and won senior Scottish championships, while his grandsons—Hammy McMillan Jr. and Grant Hardie—along with fellow Stranraer curler Bobby Lammie, have competed at the highest levels as part of Team GB led by skip Bruce Mouat.
Managed for nearly 20 years by Gail Munro, Hammy Sr.’s daughter, the rink continues to be a hometown hub for curling excellence. The long legacy of curling success stemming from this rink has made Stranraer world-famous in the curling community.
Additionally, the North West Castle hotel itself has historic roots dating back to 1819, built by Arctic explorer Rear Admiral Sir John Ross, adding historical depth to the site now known for its sporting achievements.
In summary:
– The North West Castle hotel in Stranraer was bought by Hammy and Janet McMillan in 1961.
– In 1967, they added the world’s first hotel ice-rink.
– The rink was created to serve local curlers and benefit the hotel business.
– It has produced multiple curling champions across decades.
– Hammy McMillan Sr. started curling late but became a Scottish senior champion.
– His grandsons, along with Bobby Lammie, form part of the elite Team GB curling squad.
– The rink is managed by Hammy Sr.’s daughter, Gail Munro.
– The hotel has historic significance, originally built by an Arctic explorer.
This legacy has made Stranraer a key place in the world of curling, with Team Mouat as current world champions aiming for Olympic gold
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
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