The national curling championships hosted by Eastern Washington University last week are now in the books. The event gave local officials a chance to prove Spokane can host high-profile events in yet another sport.
Spokane has an impressive track record when it comes to hosting regional and national level sporting events.
In March, the Arena will again be home to an NCAA regional basketball tournament, this time for men. Spokane has become a frequent March Madness regional host.
The Arena was also host to the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in 2007 and 2010.
This year, the Spokane Sports Commission hosted a major tournament for the first time in curling. Tom Violette from Curling USA says the area’s attitude was ideal.
“First and foremost, we want a community that really embraces the game and is excited to have us. I think that’s a big part of it," Violette said.
He was also pleased with the venue, Eastern Washington University’s Recreation Center in Cheney. The tournament was played on the club hockey team’s home ice. But Violette says Curling USA was able to tailor the surface for curling.
“We have to come in here early and get it completely level. We’re here four or five days in advance of the first game. It’s maintained at a different temperature, so a lot of it has to do with their equipment capacity, their compressors, our ability to maintain a certain humidity level," he said.
The seating capacity for the event wasn’t as big as some of the other places Curling USA has held its national tournament. But on at least two of the days, the first full day and the day of the semifinal matches, the crowds were large and enthusiastic.
