PEI to Host 2011 Scotties Tournament of Hearts in the First Year of a New Sponsorship Agreement between Kruger Products Limited and the Canadian Curling Association

Charlottetown, PEI – It was announced today that the 2011 Scotties Tournament of Hearts would return to PEI for the third time in the event’s history. “It is a privilege to announce that we are returning to Charlottetown,” said Greg Stremlaw, Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Curling Association.” “This community has a rich history in hosting successful sporting events and is known nationally and internationally for its warm hospitality and outstanding community spirit.”

The announcement has met with enthusiastic support from the local community. “As Premier of Prince Edward Island, I am very pleased that we will be able to once again welcome the country to our provincial capital for the 2011 Scotties Tournament of Hearts,” said Robert Ghiz, Premier of Prince Edward Island. “”This is a great opportunity to showcase our province and our renowned Island hospitality to not only the participants, sponsors and fans who will travel to Prince Edward Island for the event, but to all of those who will be watching the televised coverage across the county,” said Ghiz.

It was also announced today that Kruger Products Limited and the Canadian Curling Association have reached a new sponsorship agreement. “We are very pleased that we will continue to have Kruger as sponsor of the Canadian Women’s Curling Championship,” said Greg Stremlaw. “We have enjoyed a long and rewarding partnership and are delighted that Kruger will continue to be a part of future Seasons of Champions.”

The 2011 Scotties Tournament of Hearts will mark the 30th anniversary of Kruger’s sponsorship of the Canadian Women’s Championship. “As a highly recognized event hosting destination, our city has worked tirelessly to further our event hosting abilities and relationships. Today’s announcement is evidence that Charlottetown continues to remain at the forefront when it comes to hosting high-profile major events such as the 2011 Scotties Tournament of Hearts,” said Mayor Clifford Lee. “This event will significantly stimulate economic and tourism development and provide an opportunity for Charlottetown to be the focus across the country during this week-long nationally televised event,” added Lee.

Kim Dolan will Chair the local host committee. Kim has competed in nine national Scotties Tournament of Hearts and last year coached her provincial team at the Canadian Championship. “I am thrilled to have this opportunity to chair what I promise will be a very enthusiastic and committed group of volunteers,” said Dolan. “We will use our experience in hosting the Scotties in 1984 and again in 1999 to stage what we promise will be a unique and memorable experience for curlers and fans.”

Kruger Products has sponsored The Scotties Tournament of Hearts since 1982 making it the longest corporate sponsor of amateur sport in Canada.” “Kruger Products remains committed to growing women’s curling in Canada through it’s sponsorship of the Scotties Tournament of Hearts”, said Nancy Marcus, Vice President of Marketing at Kruger.” “We recognize that this sport is an important part of our Canadian heritage and is enjoyed by Canadians from coast to coast to coast.”

The 2011 Scotties Tournament of Hearts will be played in the Charlottetown Civic Centre, from February 19 – 27 with draws broadcast on TSN. Tickets will go on sale in January 2010.

The CCA manages all of the Season of Champions events which currently include the Scotties Tournament of Hearts, the Tim Hortons Brier, Tim Hortons Roar of the Rings, Canada Cup and M&M Meat Shops Canadian Juniors. The CCA also partners with the World Curling Federation in hosting the World Financial Group Continental Cup and the Ford World Curling Championships (when held in Canada.) In addition, the CCA directs high performance programs for Canada’s national elite athletes and provides various programs and services for its member associations Canada-wide.

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