Curling players, fans converge in Las Vegas for World Financial Group Continental Cup

When the World Financial Group Continental Cup came to Las Vegas in 2014, eyebrows raised throughout the curling community. Could a winter sports competition draw a crowd in the middle of the Nevada desert?

The short answer was yes, and a resounding one at that. More than 50,000 spectators turned out for the extravaganza two years ago and organizers are hoping for the same, if not better, outcome for 2016.

“The event did bring thousands of Canadians, but also drew well amongst local residents whose curiosity was piqued,” explained Jon Killoran, chief executive officer of the Reno Tahoe Winter Games Coalition. “Bringing thousands of people to watch the sport’s best athletes compete in an iconic destination helps raise awareness and interest for the sport.”

January’s games will feature six top women’s and men’s teams from North America up against six of the best from the rest of the curling world at the Orleans Arena, Jan. 14 through 17.

Already confirmed are defending Olympic women’s gold medalists from Canada, Team Jennifer Jones. Women’s defending world champions Team Alina Paetz of Switzerland and defending world men’s champions Team Niklas Edin of Sweden are also expected to make appearances.

If you’re a curling enthusiast, there’s an opportunity to meet athletes, get autographs, hear onstage interviews and hang out in “The Patch,” a large room for fans to gather after each draw.

However, if it’s your first time watching the sport, Killoran offers this advice to the curling newbie: “Sit near an experienced curling fan. They love to share their knowledge and love for the game.”

— Genevieve Wong, Tribune Content Solutions