The 2020 Mixed Doubles and Senior Curling Championships in Kelowna are still scheduled to happen as planned despite the looming threat of the coronavirus.
There has been a lot of speculation about whether the tournament would proceed in light of the numerous sporting events being canceled around the world and the fact the coronavirus appears to be hitting seniors the hardest.
As of Mar. 9, over a dozen national and international sporting events have been canceled or affected by the virus.
The International Ice Hockey Federation canceled six world championship tournaments, which were scheduled to be held in March and April. The Ice Hockey Women’s World Championships was one of those tournaments, which was expected to be held in Halifax and Turo, N.S.
Italy has been one of the countries hit the hardest, with more than 3,800 infected and 100 deaths. Sporting events are currently being held without spectators until at least Apr. 3. as ordered by the Italian government.
In the world of golf, The LPGA canceled March series events in China, Thailand and Singapore. In addition, the European Tour canceled the Kenya Open over fears about the virus.
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Rob Balsdon, executive director with the Kelowna Club said the club has made the coronavirus a major discussion point, but the feeling is positive heading into the tournament.
“As far as we’re concerned everything is business as usual right now,” said Balsdon.
“There’s no knee-jerk reactions. We’re going to follow the government’s lead on this and as of right now with the Prince George Women’s Curling Championships going on I think it’s pretty positive.”
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While Balsdon believes there is no serious risk of going ahead with the tournament, the Kelowna Curling Club will be taking extra precautions to ensure their facilities are sanitary and their players remain healthy. There will be hand sanitizing stations as well as adding a few extra washrooms.
“We’re doing what we can with what’s within our control,” said Balsdon.
“There’s no plan right now to back out of anything. Unless the government changes their travel advisories then we’re all good to go.”
The 2020 World Mixed Doubles and Seniors Curling Championships will be happening from Apr. 18 to 25 at the Kelowna Curling Club. Tickets can be purchased here.