Summerside officials announced Wednesday that the city will host the Grand Slam of Curling — the sport’s most competitive tournament — this spring.
The top teams in the world will face off for more than $300,000 in prize money at the event, which takes place April 10 to 15 at Credit Union Place.
Summerside Mayor Basil Stewart announces the city will host the Grand Slam of Curling. CBC Photo
“We’re bringing in the top eight teams in the world on the world ranking on the men’s side and the women’s side and they’ll play a round robin. So there will not be an easy game, easy match all week,” said Kevin Albrecht, event manager with iSport Media.
To prepare for the event, organizers will have to drum up about 100 volunteers. And Credit Union Place will have to turn its arena into a world-class ice surface.
“It’s going to be a hockey rink the day before they arrive,” said JP DesRosiers, event development officer with the City of Summerside.
“We’re going to have to ensure that our ice is as level as humanely possible. Mark Shurak from the World Curling Players Association will arrive here to build ice to make it playable for professionals.”