World’s best curlers coming to London for Grand Slam of Curling

The world's best curlers are headed to the Forest City this coming fall - CTV London's Brent Lale has the details on the local athletes that will be attending.

The top 16 men’s and women’s curling teams in the world will be in London, Ont. for the WFG Masters, September 23-28 at the Western Fair Sports Centre.

“We’ve always tried to bring a world championship here, but the London Knights just happened to be too good and they’re always in the playoffs,” said Peter Inch, the local organizer of the event.

“This is our only opportunity to let London and area see these top teams.”

Among the top teams for the Grand Slam of Curling (GSOC) event will be Team Homan, Team Hasselborg and Team Tirinzoni. On the Men’s side, Brad Gushue, Bruce Mouat, and Ross Whyte will be among the contenders.

London resident Sarah Wilkes is the lead for Team Homan.

“I think it’s going to be a great environment,” said Wilkes.

“The arena is the perfect size for it and I’m hoping that will like packed with fans.”

London has a history of hosting major events like the Brier and Continental Cup. Tourism London loves to partner in hosting as curling fans travel well.

“Curling has a great group of followers,” said Zanth Jarvis, director of sport tourism at Tourism London.

“They come for the whole event. Stick around while they’re here and check out the city. We’re excited to have some more action downtown and around the facility.”

In addition to the main event, a supplementary Tier 2 event will take place during the same time period either in St. Thomas or at a club in London.

The Tier 2 event will include 32 additional teams and will bring more than 250 athletes to the London region.

This will be the first time the GSOC will be coming to London and is part of a plan to keep the major events coming to the Forest City.

“Tourism London and ourselves have been talking to put together a five-year plan and we’re hoping to end it with the Olympic trials,” said Inch.

Wilkes said the fans will love the level of play, and the highly competitive draws each day.

She’s also looking forward to having Team Homan in her hometown.

“I’m excited to show them around, bring me to some of my favorite restaurants, show them my house,” said Wilkes.

“They’ve never been here, so I’m looking forward to that and also having my family support here.”