The Weber County Ice Sheet is set to host the LGT Men's World Curling Championship from March 27 through April 4. According to Marty Smith, the Director of Culture, Parks and Recreation at Weber County, the event follows a period of significant attention for curling during the Olympics.
The championship follows a major renovation of the Weber County Ice Sheet, which was originally built as the first specific venue in Utah for the 2002 Olympics. Todd Ferrario, Assistant Director for Culture, Parks and Rec, stated that improvements were supported by state funds earmarked for the sustainability of past Olympic venues.
Recent upgrades to the facility include new sound systems, LED screens, new scoreboards, and retrofitted concession stands. The facility also underwent structural changes to provide separate restroom and shower facilities for different locker rooms. Ferrario noted that the venue's infrastructure includes compressors and chillers to maintain the ice rink.
The event will include various community activities, such as an outdoor festival with food trucks and entertainment held outside the arena on both weekends. A closing party is scheduled for the first Friday at The Monarch, coinciding with the First Friday art stroll.
Tickets for the event are available at worldcurlingogden.com or through the events tab at visitogden.com. Marty Smith noted that children can attend day sessions for free. Additionally, corporate and group rates are available, with discounts for groups of 20 or more and 50 or more people.
The championship is expected to have a significant broadcast reach, with teams from around the world expected to handle live broadcasting for audiences in Europe and Asia. The event will feature 13 teams competing at the Weber State University campus complex.
