KERROBERT – Eight teams were welcomed to the town of Kerrobert for the Sask Curling Mixed Doubles Tour. Among those teams were one pair from the United States and another from China.
Organizers for the event included Kerrobert Curling Club president Brennan Murphy, Regis Neumeier, Mitch Heidt and Brett Barber. Barber said they were excited to host such an event.
“Our goal was to have a competitive event with a hometown feel to it,” added Barber.
The tourism boost for the town was a bonus. Recreation Director Marli Shepard said she was amazed with how the tour not only brings Kerrobert into an international light but also helps businesses within the community.
“Having such an event shows how our community comes together to volunteer, be hospitable to our visitors and create an environment unlike any other,” said Shepard.
Ellen Redlick and Josh Heidt teamed up for the Sask Curl event, meeting for the first time prior to play on Dec. 1. The duo was happy to play at such a hospitable club and said they were impressed with the quality of the ice.
“It’s been really nice, just a great atmosphere, friendly people,” said Redlick.
The event kicked off Dec. 1 in a round-robin style play and playoffs were held Dec. 3.
The team from China, Siyu Liu and Sen Yu, has been curling for two years and arrived in Canada Nov. 25. They were set to play in two tournaments before returning to China Dec. 4. Coach Ma Yongjun said the mixed double team has been consistently improving their game. They were able to secure two wins after their opening game loss on Friday, advancing them to the semifinals where they lost to the hosting team.
Gabrielle Coleman and Connor Robertson, who come from San Fransico, Calif., were unable to put any points up, leaving Kerrobert with a 0-3 standing.
With three teams from Kerrobert, the other joining teams came from North Battleford, Saskatoon and Regina. By the end of the weekend, Amanda Kuzyk and Sam Wills from Regina were victorious over Barber/M. Heidt 9-6, taking home the championship.
