Keeping options open key to the MacKenzie rink repeating as P.E.I. men’s curling champ this week (Guardian)

CORNWALL, P.E.I. – After 30 years or so Sean Ledgerwood has curled on the Island scene long enough to know its ins and outs.

The lead of the defending P.E.I. Tankard winner played third in last year’s foursome skipped by Eddie MacKenzie after lead duties on MacKenzie’s 2013 and 2014 championship squads and Mike Gaudet’s 2004 winner.

Second Chris Gallant, left, and lead Sean Ledgerwood of the Eddie MacKenzie rink discuss strategy at a recent practice in Cornwall. Last year’s P.E.I. Tankard champs start their defence of their provincial title today at the Cornwall Curling Club. – Charles Reid

This year, new second Chris Gallant and new third Josh Barry, who Ledgerwood and MacKenzie haven’t played with before, have stirred up the mix, but for Ledgerwood it’s part and parcel of the fun.

“It’s going to be a challenge, but a good challenge. All the teams have the same ability. Every game will be highly contested,” Ledgerwood said. “Every club is different, every club has different ice conditions. (It’s a matter) of adapting to the ice when you get there. It could be, and probably will be, different. You do the best you can with the ice you’re given. It’s about adapting on the fly.”

The Cornwall Curling Club is this year’s championship host. Today’s opening draw begins at 2 p.m. Opening ceremonies go at 6:15 p.m. Draw 2 follows at 7 p.m.

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