THUNDER BAY – The Scotties Tournament of Hearts is only three weeks away, and Curling Canada is still working out the details of what the event might look like.
A source involved locally with the event tells TBNewswatch that the governing body for the sport is looking at the feasibility of a bubble, similar to the one put in place last year in Calgary.
It would mean no fans at Fort William Gardens when the event begins on Jan. 28, with curlers and others associated with the national women’s curling championship unable to leave the bubble for the duration, in order to limit the chance of COVID-19 spread.
It also involved strict testing regimens.
Curling Canada spokesman Al Cameron, who did not confirm the bubble option, said they’re doing everything possible to have the Scotties take place in Thunder Bay.
“At present, we're continuing to consult with local, regional and national health authorities and discussing numerous options to find a way to make the Scotties happen in Thunder Bay in a safe, responsible manner,” Cameron said in an email response.
Ontario on Wednesday launched new regulations that included the cancellation of all ticketed events. However, some elite-level amateur sports will be allowed to continue, without fans, with the approval of public health officials. The OHL, for example, has gotten the go-ahead to play, while the OUA and SIJHL have not.
