Soo Fall Classic draws some of Canada's top curlers

First Soo Curlers Fall Classic bonspiel a success The first World Curling Tour bonspiel event held in Sault Ste. Marie saw thousands of fans and teams from six countries this weekend.

Some of the world’s best curlers have arrived in Sault Ste. Marie for the second annual Soo Fall Classic that many curlers say has become a can’t miss event.

This year the field is stronger, the prize pot is bigger, and there’s more room for fans. The finishing touches are being put on the ice, while teams perfect their touches with the rocks.

In all, 12 of the top 20 teams in men’s curling will face off against one another, as well as teams from across the region.

"Anytime you get an opportunity to come up against some of the best in the world, you're going to cherish that and embrace those games," said Charlie Robert, who is competing at the Classic for the second year.

"If we curl up to our potential, we can give some guys some run for their money … (If) make a little bit of noise and get them sweating a bit, we'll be happy."

Making their return is reigning champions Team Dunstone, who said the pros know this is a can’t miss event.

"Last year, winning this event was probably the highlight of our season," said Matt Dunstone.

"This is our best tour stop outside of the Grand Slam ... So, you know, this place is going to be jammed."

Dunstone’s team may have local Ryan Harnden, but their finals opponent from last year said they got a pretty warm welcome from Saultites, which helped draw them back.

"Here in the Sault, I realize the Italian community is quite big," said Joel Retornez, whose team is ranked No. 2 in the world.

"We had a lot of fun talking to them last year -- and they even invited us for meals. We didn't have time to go there, but of course, we would like to eat some proper Italian food when we're here."

The teams agree that the biggest incentive is the $106,000 purse for the event, up from $90,000 last year.

Ticket sales are also way ahead of the inaugural event, and organizers said they have nearly doubled seating capacity at the curling club.

"With an expanded field and some of the more of the top teams in curling, some household names, we knew there'd be an interest from the fans to travel," said Tom McLean, president of the Soo Curlers Association.

"We've got people travelling from all over northern Ontario and Michigan. So, we've got 500 seats."

The tournament's opening draw is 9 a.m. Thursday, with the final match of each day starting at 7:30 p.m., other than championship Sunday.