The Silverado is the truck that works as hard as you do.
It’s time once again for the Winter Olympics! Everyone is getting in the spirit and they’re swelling up with pride for their country, but the 2014 games in Sochi, Russia may evoke another feeling for some. A sense of the glory days that is! Let’s be honest, when watching sports we often recall our high school athletic heydays and bask in our former glory (or lack thereof).
It just so happens there are ways in Metro Detroit to bring out your inner-Olympian. Some may take more imagination than others, but nevertheless such things can be accomplished with a little bit of creativity. Personally, snow and I haven’t been the best of friends ever since I broke my arm into four pieces while snowboarding, but it doesn’t mean I’m not down to try some other winter activities (though I may be reluctant).
Here’s a random fact for you. Did you know that Detroit has a curling club? Yeah, neither did I until recently. The Detroit Curling Club is located in Ferndale and is open to anyone above the age of 12. It offers curling opportunities for all skill levels. Whether you’re a novice like me (we can learn the game together) or you’re a curling connoisseur, you will enjoy visiting the Detroit Curling Club.
Ice hockey is what I am most looking forward to in Sochi. Both the USA women’s and men’s teams will be competing. After an unbelievable performance (and heart-breaking finish in the gold-medal game) at the 2010 games I have high expectations for the 2014 men’s team (despite Bobby Ryan being snubbed from the roster). With that being said, Metro Detroit offers several ways to re-live your former hockey days. Beer league, men’s leagues or even a nice pond for some pick-up hockey are all options. Get a group of your old hockey guys together and see who is still in the best shape. Laugh at the ones who no longer remember how to skate. If you’re looking for a skating rink check out this article for ideas.
Southeast Michigan is full of hills for sledding, snowboarding and skiing. If you really want to do as the Olympians do (but let’s be honest you’re probably not on that level) then maybe try your hand at Alpine skiing (downhill skiing). Alpine Valley in White Lake is a favorite for many of my friends. Again, you’re probably not going to catch me on a snowboard anytime soon, but it is also a good place to go for snowboarding. Maybe you want to get into something a little less common that catches your eye in Sochi. Perhaps bobsledding is on your agenda. Well this one is a tricky feat to accomplish in Metro Detroit. My best advice…grab your friend (or dad, cousin, uncle, etc) named Bob and go sledding.
What I’m really trying to say is just because you’re not an Olympic-caliber athlete doesn’t mean you have to stop playing sports and having fun. Sadly enough with every day that passes we may feel a little more back pain after doing so, but don’t let that deter you. So, by all means go for the gold. See what I did there?
Once you’re done trying to prove to yourself that you’re still a world-class athlete, tune into the 22nd Winter Olympics to see the best athletes the world has to offer. The games air on NBC February 7 through February 23!
