HALIFAX – Preparations are underway in Halifax for the start of the Ford World Men’s Curling Championship, which kicks off Saturday at the Scotiabank Centre.
Over the past four days, the ice at the arena has been converted from a hockey rink to four curling sheets. Final preparations are almost complete and on Friday the curlers will practice on the ice.
On Thursday, Team Canada, skipped by Pat Simmons, was introduced at the Grand Parade in downtown Halifax.
Halifax Mayor Mike Savage told the audience the international tournament provides the city with a chance to promote itself as a tourist attraction.
“We want everybody who comes here from around the world — the teams and their fans — to have a wonderful time in the most hospitable city in North America,” he said.
Graham Harris, co-chair of the tournament, said the event is a boost for the city.
“I think it’s great because we’re introducing Halifax to so many people from away from Canada, and it gives our city a good profile,” he said. “I guess what we ask that they’ll come back and visit a second time to really show the city off.”
Curling fans are known to show their colours and have a good time at the rink. But when they’re not in the stands, they like to take in the sights.
“I’ve already heard the bus tours are lined up for Peggys Cove,” said Harris.
Five years ago in Halifax, Nolan Thiessen and Carter Rycroft won the Brier curling championship for Alberta under skip Kevin Koe, then went on to win the world championship.
It’s something they’re hoping to accomplish again as Team Canada — Canada finished fourth at last year’s tournament and the team feels it has some unfinished business.
“You know we got some good vibes here. We love the building,” said Thiessen. “It was one of the best weeks of our lives. I’m really excited to get back in there and compete and try to win a world title.”
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