The absence of five-time champion Rachel Homan from the Canadian women’s curling championship has shifted the dynamics of the 18-team competition. This change has created an opportunity for contenders like Kerri Einarson, Kaitlyn Lawes, Christina Black, and others at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts in Mississauga, Ont. Notable teams to watch include Krista Scharf from Northern Ontario, Jolene Campbell from Saskatchewan, Selena Sturmay from Alberta, and Taylor Reese-Hansen from British Columbia.
Homan, focusing on the upcoming Milan-Cortina Winter Games, will not be defending her title, paving the way for Einarson, a four-time champion from Gimli, Man., to represent Canada. Black and Kayla Skrlik secured pre-qualification spots, while Lawes claimed Einarson’s vacated spot after competing in the Manitoba final, which was won by Kelsey Calvert’s team.
Black, who reached the Olympic trials final by defeating Einarson, expressed confidence in her team’s performance. Lawes’ teammate Jocelyn Peterman will sit out to prepare for mixed doubles at the Winter Games, with Laura Walker stepping in as a replacement.
In a close provincial final, Calvert secured the Manitoba spot by defeating Lawes. Despite the loss, Lawes secured a pre-qualification berth based on the Canadian Team Ranking System. The tournament will feature teams from various provinces and territories, with a playoff format determining the ultimate Canadian representative for the world women’s curling championship in Calgary.
The Brier, the Canadian men’s curling championship, is scheduled to take place in St. John’s following the women’s competition. Brad Jacobs’ Calgary-based team will defend their title against Matt Dunstone’s team from Winnipeg, the runners-up in the 2025 final.
