The Grand Slam of Curling is making significant strides in its global outreach with the inaugural KIOTI GSOC Tahoe event. Taking place at the Tahoe Blue Event Center, this landmark tournament runs until Sunday and marks the series’ first international competition.
Event Background
The KIOTI GSOC Tahoe represents a long-held ambition for the Grand Slam of Curling. The Curling Group acquired the series from Sportsnet in 2024, paving the way for this international debut. Previous plans included an event in Las Vegas in January 2021, which was ultimately cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Highlights from Tahoe
Located against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Tahoe and its surrounding landscapes, the event has attracted curlers and fans alike. Team skip Mike McEwen expressed excitement for the opportunity, reminiscing about earlier plans for a Vegas competition.
- Location: Tahoe Blue Event Center, Lake Tahoe
- Duration: Through Sunday
- Participation: 16 men’s teams and 16 women’s teams from 10 nations
International Expansion Plans
The Curling Group’s CEO, Nic Sulsky, emphasized the event as a stepping stone toward broader international aspirations. While immediate overseas expansion isn’t in the cards, Sulsky confirmed plans to broaden the league’s reach to Europe and Asia in the near future.
Global Representation on the Ice
Among the participating teams, women’s division representation is notable. The lineup includes:
- Four teams from Japan
- Three teams from South Korea
- One team from China
Chinami Yoshida from Japan expressed her enthusiasm for the international participation, remarking on the growing interest in the Grand Slam due to Japan’s recent Olympic successes in curling.
A Milestone Season
The Grand Slam of Curling celebrates its 25th season, evolving from a men’s invitational in 2001 to a premier tour circuit that includes equal prize money for men’s and women’s events. Wayne Middaugh, an original participant, noted the remarkable growth of the tournament.
Japanese Teams in the Spotlight
The competition showcases the evolving landscape of curling, especially for teams like Kerri Einarson’s club from Canada, who face international rivals. Einarson, a six-time Grand Slam champion, appreciates the opportunity to compete against diverse teams.
The Road Ahead
Looking towards future events, Sulsky acknowledged the momentum generated by the Tahoe experience. The Curling Group’s upcoming Rock League, set to launch in April 2026, aims to maintain this excitement in the post-Olympics scene.
With aspirations for future events in Japan and beyond, the KIOTI GSOC Tahoe not only marks a new chapter for the Grand Slam of Curling but also reinforces curling’s global appeal. As the sport continues to grow, the future looks bright for international competitions and opportunities worldwide.
