The involvement of local youngster Owen Sharman saw the Rocks & Rings programme, an initiative of Curling Canada, pass the mark.

Rocks & Rings was launched by Rock Solid Productions in 2009 and has since been in more than 6,800 schools across Canada, using curling equipment that has been adapted to gymnasium surfaces, but closely simulates on-ice conditions.

It is partly supported by donations to the Curling Canada Foundation, the mandate of which is to promote curling and an active life to Canadian youngsters. 

"It has been a particular delight to watch the steady growth of Curling Canada Rocks & Rings, and I know that Curling Canada and Rock Solid Productions take a great deal of pride out of the celebration of one million kids," said Hugh Avery, chair of Curling Canada’s Board of Governors.

"Curling Canada Rocks & Rings has taken our sport to new levels in terms of encouraging young people to not only give curling a try, but also to be active and healthy.

"We can’t wait to announce our two-millionth participant."

The announcement was made at the Tim Hortons Brier, the annual Canadian men's curling championship, sanctioned by Curling Canada.

"Our goal in year one was to visit 20 schools in Toronto," said Chad McMullan, President of Rock Solid Productions.

"It feels like it was just overnight, but 20 has become 1,400 and Toronto has become Canada.

"The term Rocks & Rings is becoming synonymous with youth curling and we are incredibly proud to be a part of building the next generation."