On Thursday, the Elementary Curling Championships got underway in Palmerston.
The annual event has drawn 270 curlers on 64 teams in various age groups to the Palmerston and District Community Centre and Curling Club, and runs through championship Sunday this weekend.
Palmerston Curling President and Tournament Co-Chair Chrissie Schneider, says they're thrilled with how the event has come together after a long time planning it.
"So this has probably been a project that has been going on for at least a year now, and we definitely, with all the volunteers we've had, it's been a process but ultimately it's been great," Schneider enthused.
The opening ceremony included Minto Mayor Dave Turton and Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae stopping by to wish the curlers luck. The stands were ram packed with classmates, teachers, parents, friends and supporters. Schneider says seeing the opening ceremony come together to kick off the tournament was very gratifying.
"A big sense of relief, for sure. I'm just so pleased the way it's been going so far, and it's been special to see all the kids come out on the ice led by the piper, and for my kids to be out there and be part of that experience was awesome, as well. I'm just really glad there were so many kids and teams from across the province that could share in that moment," said Schneider proudly.
Schneider emphasized again how crucial all the volunteers were in making the event happen, which included other support from local sponsors and the Town of Minto. Schneider says the town was immediately on board when they were approached.
"That was great, as well. When we approached them back in June of 2024, I believe it was, with our idea, they were excited from the get-go about it. The support from them and the employees at the town have made our job easier, as well," noted Schneider.
Schneider also praised the efforts of local ice maker Don Wilkin on transforming the arena ice from a hockey rink into a 4 sheet curling rink to pair with the 4 sheets at the curling club, giving the tournament 8 sheets to work with.
The opening ceremony also included a ceremonial first draw from the local CWOSSA Champion Norwell Varsity Reds women's team. Schneider says it's amazing to see curling inspiring young people in Palmerston and beyond.
"Our Norwell girls, they started in the junior program when they were 8 or 9-years-old, and they've kind of grown up and they've had success and it's been great to see the kids grow up and take that love of curling into their adult years, too," Schneider concluded.
Once again, the event runs from April 3-6 at the Palmerston and District Community Centre and Curling Club.
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