Curling: Winnipeg’s arena project seen as start of cross-country expansion [Video]

WINNIPEG –

A Winnipeg pilot project offers arena ice and rocks in a curling club to top teams in the area.

Two sheets at the eight-sheet Heather Curling Club are prepped and clipped by leading ice maker Greg Ewasko, who has repurposed provincial championship rocks for use.

A cabinet containing a TV for video analysis, speed trap equipment for weight control and smart brooms to track pressure, speed and power is rinkside.

When Dave Murdoch accepted the job of Curling Canada’s high-performance director two years ago, he envisioned regional training hubs across the country to serve the nation’s top curlers and teams, plus the next generation in the sport, in those geographical areas.

Winnipeg’s hub that’s been up and running since Oct. 8 is a step toward his vision.

The Saville Community Sports Centre on Edmonton’s University of Alberta campus and Calgary’s Glencoe Club had National Training Centre designations predating Murdoch’s arrival.

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