THUNDER BAY -- The Scotties Tournament of Hearts is a go for Thunder Bay in 2022.
TBNewswatch has learned the national women's curling championship has been given the OK by the province to proceed at Fort William Gardens, starting on Jan. 28, but it will be in a bubble format, with no fans and limited media inside.
It's similar to the approach taken last year in Calgary, where curlers, volunteers and tournament staff were kept separate from the public in an effort to limit possible spread of COVID-19.
Ontario is currently under strict regulations governing sports events, with no fans allowed in the stands through at least Jan. 26.
Thunder Bay's Krista McCarville rink will represent Northern Ontario in the 18-team field, expanded to allow three wild-card teams.
The province confirmed the event will take place.
“I am excited to see the Scotties Tournament of Hearts move forward with a cautious and safe return to play. Thanks to Minister Greg Rickford, who has always been a strong advocate for Northern Ontario, the region continues to flourish as a destination for world class events like the Scotties," said Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries Lisa MacLeod.
An official announcement from Curling Canada is expected shortly.
