The Canadian Pride Curling Championship officially opened in Saint John yesterday, Thursday. The event brings together curling teams from 15 different unions to compete in a national championship.

Shelby Arnold, one of the assistants organizing the championship in Saint John, said, "I believe curling is one of the most inclusive sports."

He pointed out that the ability to bring everyone together to be themselves and play some great curling games only shows the extent to which curling has reached. Just like major championships, athletes in this competition have to win their local championships before reaching the national stage.

Spencer McKnight, representing Saskatoon in this event, said many athletes are football players who have played competitively at junior levels and now enjoy the opportunity to reconnect with the game.

He said, "It really gives us all a great opportunity to meet friends from all over the country and enjoy a really fun competitive championship."

McKnight and his team in Saskatoon also won the title on the ice in 2022 when the championship was held in Saskatoon.

Jeremy Grimes, who will be absent from the Saint John team at this year’s championship, hopes to do the same.

He said, "Having the home ice advantage and having so many people here to cheer us on is very exciting for us. We really hope we can make them proud and win this thing."

It is worth noting that the championship started in 2006 and the hosts rotate across Canada. This year is the first time Saint John is hosting this event, held at the RE/MAX Center, the only curling club in the city.

Arnold said the event contrasts with the increasing scrutiny and political attacks in Newfoundland and Labrador against Pride-related events and inclusive education curricula.

He pointed out, “For us, to be able to bring this event here and have clear visibility, it actually shows that we will not be silenced — we are not going anywhere.”

He confirmed that there are no restrictions on who can participate – it is open to LGBTQ2S+ curling professionals as well as their friends and families.

Grimes added, "Honestly, I feel proud and happy that I am able to do this. You think Canada is very inclusive and that we are able to hold this event here. Many other places in the world may not have this ability, due to the political climate and whatever else."

It is noteworthy that the event will continue until Sunday, with the championship final match kicking off at 3 p.m. on Sunday.