Top Canadian Female Curlers Compete in Mississauga for National Championship
Top Canadian female curlers have gathered in Mississauga for the 2026 Scotties Tournament of Hearts, marking a significant event for the sport. This year’s tournament is notable as it is the first time the Canadian national women’s curling championship is held in the Greater Toronto Area. The venue for the games is the Paramount Fine Foods Centre.
Details of the Championship
The tournament kicked off on Friday night, featuring elite teams from various provinces and territories competing for the national title.
- Event: Scotties Tournament of Hearts
- Location: Paramount Fine Foods Centre, Mississauga
- Participation: 18 teams from across Canada
- Format: Two groups of nine, each playing eight round-robin games
Danielle Inglis, a curling ambassador, expressed her enthusiasm about the competition. “You’ve got the top teams in Canada competing here. To compete in this as an athlete is a dream,” she stated. Inglis has been passionate about curling since childhood, thanks to her parents introducing her to the sport when she was just seven years old.
Community and Competition
Inglis emphasized the strong curling community in the Greater Toronto Area. She highlighted the busy rinks and various programs available for enthusiasts of all ages. “I have not met one person who has tried curling and not wanted to come back,” she noted.
However, the championship sees a notable absence with five-time champion Rachel Homan not participating. Homan is currently preparing for the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, thus missing out on the chance for a third consecutive title at the Scotties.
Advancement to World Championship
After completing the round-robin stage, the top three teams from each group will proceed to the playoffs. The ultimate winner will not only claim the national title but also represent Canada at the world women’s curling championship, scheduled for March 14-22 in Calgary.
This competition serves as a highlight for both the athletes and curling fans alike, showcasing the talent and dedication of Canada’s top female curlers.
