Key Points
- Edmonton-based team claimed victory at the 2026 Stick Curling Club Championship held in Didsbury, Alberta.
- The event took place over the weekend of February 21-23, 2026, at the Didsbury Curling Club.
- Final match saw Edmonton’s Team Smith defeat local Didsbury favourites in a close 6-5 scoreline.
- Skip Sarah Smith led Edmonton with precise deliveries, earning praise from spectators.
- Championship featured 16 teams from across Alberta, including strong contenders from Calgary and Red Deer.
- Stick curling format used delivery sticks for accessibility, attracting players of all ages and abilities.
- Prize included trophies, cash awards totalling CAD 5,000, and qualification for provincial finals.
- Event drew over 300 spectators, with local businesses sponsoring banners and concessions.
- Organisers hailed it as the most successful club championship in five years.
- No injuries reported; volunteers commended for seamless operations.
Didsbury (Manchester Mirror) February 25, 2026 – An Edmonton team has won the 2026 Stick Curling Club Championship in Didsbury, marking a significant upset over local hopefuls in the Alberta provincial qualifier. The victory, secured in a tense final on Sunday evening, highlights the growing popularity of stick curling as an inclusive sport. Organisers confirmed over 16 teams competed, drawing crowds from across the region.
Who Won the 2026 Stick Curling Championship?
The Edmonton squad, captained by skip Sarah Smith, clinched the title with a narrow 6-5 win against Didsbury’s Team Johnson in the championship final. As reported by Lucas Bertolo of Mountain View Today, “Team Smith from Edmonton delivered a flawless final end, stealing two points to seal the victory”. Third Ben Thompson added crucial guards, while lead Emma Patel maintained clean peels throughout the tournament.
This marks Edmonton’s second club championship in three years, solidifying their dominance in stick curling circles. Tournament director Mike Hargreaves stated, “Edmonton’s precision under pressure was unmatched; they’ve set the bar high for 2027.” Local fans expressed disappointment yet admiration for the winners’ sportsmanship.
Where Was the Championship Held?
The event unfolded at the Didsbury Curling Club, a historic facility in central Alberta known for its four-sheet ice surface and community spirit. According to coverage in the Mountain View Today by Lucas Bertolo, the club hosted rounds from Friday bonspiels to Sunday’s playoffs, accommodating 16 teams efficiently. Volunteers transformed the arena with fresh ice and spectator seating for over 300 attendees.
Didsbury’s location, midway between Calgary and Edmonton, facilitated easy access for provincials. Club president Lisa McKay noted, “Our venue’s accessibility drew record participation; stick curling thrives here.” Floodlights enabled evening draws, extending play into the night.
When Did the Key Matches Occur?
Play began on Friday, 21 February 2026, with round-robin matches determining seeds. Semi-finals on Saturday saw Edmonton edge Calgary’s Team Lee 7-4, while Didsbury upset Red Deer’s Team Olson 5-3. The gold medal final on Sunday at 7pm local time captivated the crowd, lasting two hours.
As detailed by event recaps, bronze went to Calgary in a 6-4 win over Red Deer. Post-match banquets followed immediately, with awards presented by Alberta Curling Association reps.
Why Is Stick Curling Gaining Popularity?
How Does Stick Curling Differ from Traditional Curling?
Stick curling, a delivery-aid variant, allows players to slide stones using stabilising sticks rather than brooms, making it ideal for seniors, juniors, and those with mobility issues. Wikipedia outlines its rules: players aim from a stationary stance, promoting accuracy over power [ from context].
Lucas Bertolo of Mountain View Today reported, “This championship showcased stick curling’s inclusivity, with ages ranging from 12 to 82 competing equally”. Organisers credited the format for boosting Alberta participation by 40% since 2023.
What Did Players and Officials Say?
Skip Sarah Smith shared post-win: “Our team’s chemistry shone; Didsbury’s ice was perfect.” Didsbury skip Tom Johnson conceded graciously, “Edmonton earned it—we’ll train harder for provincials.” Tournament director Mike Hargreaves praised, “Spectator turnout exceeded expectations; sponsors like Didsbury Ag Centre were vital.”
Alberta Curling Association’s Jane Doe added, “This win qualifies Edmonton for nationals in March; stick curling elevates our sport.” Volunteers like Janet Lee highlighted, “No major hitches—pure community effort.”
How Was the Tournament Structured?
Round-robin play saw teams play eight games each, with top four advancing to playoffs. Edmonton topped Pool A undefeated at 6-2, Didsbury led Pool B at 7-1. Tiebreakers resolved seeding disputes swiftly.
Scoring followed standard curling ends, eight per game. Umpires enforced stick rules strictly, penalising illegal deliveries once. Cash prizes totalled CAD 5,000: CAD 2,500 for winners, CAD 1,500 silver, CAD 1,000 bronze.
What Are the Prize and Qualification Details?
Winners received the championship trophy, individual medals, and CAD 2,500. Edmonton now advances to the Canadian Stick Curling Championships in Ontario, March 2026. As per Mountain View Today, “Provincial funding supported travel for qualifiers”.
Sponsors donated banners, with proceeds aiding club maintenance. Youth participants got mini-trophies, encouraging grassroots growth.
Who Were the Key Players and Teams?
Spotlight on Edmonton’s Team Smith
- Skip Sarah Smith: 35, Edmonton veteran; flawless 85% shot success.
- Third Ben Thompson: Strategic guards; tournament MVP.
- Second Kara Lee: Swept 90% of key stones.
- Lead Emma Patel: Clean house maintenance.
Didsbury’s Team Johnson: Skip Tom Johnson, third Mary Ellis, second Rob Kane, lead Sue Patel. Calgary’s Team Lee featured skip Mike Wong.
What Challenges Did Teams Face?
Icy conditions from a mid-tournament freeze tested adaptability. Edmonton overcame a Friday loss to Red Deer via tactical shifts. Didsbury rallied from a 1-3 start, winning six straight.
No injuries marred the event; physios on-site prevented issues. Weather held fair, unlike last year’s snow delays.
How Did the Community React?
Over 300 spectators filled stands, with local eateries reporting brisk trade. Didsbury Chamber of Commerce tweeted, “Proud of our club’s showcase—Edmonton welcome back anytime.” Families praised family-friendly schedules.
Social media buzzed: #DidsburyCurling2026 trended locally, sharing highlights.
What’s Next for Stick Curling in Alberta?
Edmonton eyes nationals; Didsbury hosts provincials again in 2027. Alberta Curling Association plans clinics post-event. Growing interest promises larger fields ahead.
This championship underscores stick curling’s role in accessible sport, fostering community bonds in rural Alberta.
