The World Men’s Curling Championship has brought elite teams from 12 countries to Halifax.
While only one nation can take the championship but for the fans and local businesses, everyone is a winner.
At the opening ceremonies, Team Canada was given a warm welcome from fans.
“There will be a great set of fans that show up here this week,” says Team Canada Skip, Pay Simmons. “We will enjoy that. It really does help us.”
For many of the international curlers, this will be the first time they’ve ever been to Atlantic Canada.
Aku Kauste, who is the Skip for Team Finland, says having a lot of spectators is exciting for his team.
“Canada is also really fun because there are so many people interested in curling,” he says.
The World Men’s Curling Championship has a 56 year history and this is only the fourth time it has been hosted in Atlantic Canada. It’s been held twice in Moncton, once in Saint John and now for the first time ever in Halifax.
“I think the economic impact of this is over 3 million dollars,” says Mayor Mike Savage. “It also enhances our image around the world.”
Curling Canada Director Event Operations, Warren Hansen, says he expects some exciting games.
“It’s going to be some of the best curling that people will ever witness,” he says.
The round robin play started Saturday and the gold medal game will take place next Sunday.
