The B.C. government is contributing $100,000 to the Ford World Men's Curling Championship, announced Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Ida Chong during the celebration of the opening ceremony.

Minister Chong made the announcement on behalf of Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Bill Bennett.

The Ford World Men's Curling Championship opened today at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre in Victoria and continues until April 7. The event features the top curlers in the world from 12 countries, including Canada.

The Ford World Men's Curling Championship was previously held in Victoria in 2005. An independent economic impact analysis completed for the event reported a total economic impact of $20.4 million.

Quotes:

Ida Chong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation -

"This is a huge success story for B.C. If you love curling, you're either in Victoria this week or you're watching the broadcast. The economic impact of this event is enormous and so is the exposure for our province. We're proud to support the Ford World Men's Curling Championship and sport in B.C."

Quick Facts:

• The Ford World Men's Curling Championship runs from March 30 - April 7.
• More than 500 volunteers will contribute to the event.
• Countries competing include Canada, Sweden, Norway, Czech Republic, Denmark, Russia, Switzerland, Scotland, Finland, China, Japan and the U.S.A.
• The Ford World Men's Curling Championship was last held in Canada in 2011 when Regina hosted the event.
• Beijing, China will host the 2014 event.

Learn More:

Ford World Men's Curling Championship: http://www.curling.ca/championships/worlds/

Contact:

Matt Gordon
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 896-4923