If you love the idea of watching top-notch curling close enough to hear the crack of the rocks, check out what’s coming next to Langley!
For the first time, the Langley Curling Centre at the George Preston Recreation Centre and the Township of Langley are hosting the New Holland Canadian Junior Curling Championships, with 14 each of the provinces’ best under-21 men’s and women’s rinks competing Jan. 18 to 26. Included on the roster are two men’s rinks from B.C.
“It’s a chance to feel that positive vibe of youth and watch our future stars in the sport,” says Nigel Easton, chair of the 2020 championships. “With the energy in the buildings, and the cheering and all of that stuff, it’s a fun environment for everyone.”
What can you look forward to with the 2020 nationals?
If you haven’t been by the Preston Centre lately, you’ll find a completely renovated arena and curling club, along with a brand-new restaurant to satisfy the hungries in between draws. The ever-present corps of volunteers will help you enjoy the championship experience, whether you’re coming from the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley or across the country.
- Star power present for opening ceremonies – One of the Langley club’s hottest stars will help kick things off Saturday, Jan. 18 (6:30 p.m. start). Two-time Canadian junior men’s champion Tyler Tardi, whose rink is currently B.C.’s top-rated men’s team heading into their 2020 provincials, will throw one of the first rocks. He’ll be joined by brother Jordan Tardi, plus defending B.C. women’s champion skip Sarah Wark and former B.C. women’s champ and 2020 qualifier Karla Thompson, all Langley junior curling grads.
- Find tickets online – Whether you’re looking for a full-event pass, plan to come for one day or are simply keen to see one particular draw, advance tickets can be purchased online here and can be picked up at the will call window at the Preston Centre. Remember, anyone 16-under accompanied by a parent is admitted free!
- Event schedule at your fingertips – Following a specific rink? Find a full listing online on a handy grid, with times and opponents. Want to watch the men’s or women’s semifinals and/or finals but won’t be attending? Both rounds will be televised live on TSN.
- The best ice around – Langley’s Mike Merklinger, one of the top-rated curling icemakers in the country, is overseeing that task for the nationals, with five sheets in use at George Preston and three more in the curling centre.
For more information, visit langleycurlingclub.com or call them at 604-530-8218. Facebook fans can follow the club here.
