Situated at Seventh and Victoria Street in the core of downtown, the Kamloops Curling Club (KCC) has a rich history of resilience and success over its 75-year journey. From its humble beginnings to hosting international championships, the club has evolved into a dynamic hub for enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.
Established in 1948, KCC originated when the Memorial Recreation Commission (MRC) secured the land for the arena and curling club. Through fundraising efforts, the MRC built the Memorial Arena, while the curling club utilized debentures to construct the curling building.
The following year, the inaugural four-sheet curling club, unveiled on December 7, 1949, marked the beginning of a legacy. Designed by visionaries Cy Glover, alderman Allan Milton, and the city engineer, the one-storey original structure laid the foundation for a vibrant curling community in Kamloops.
As the years went on, the club expanded in 1964 with two new sheets on the east side, and in 1975, with an extra two sheets on the west side. Later, in 1987, a two-storey addition was built to enhance the facility, providing space for rocks, ice equipment, and dry storage. Given the rising demand and the club’s popularity, the kitchen was expanded three years later, leading to the creation of the Cy Glover room in honour of the club’s first president.
Soon enough, these renovations transformed the club into a hub that now welcomes curlers of all ages and skill levels. Today, the facility boasts 8 sheets of ice, a concession area, a lounge with a meeting room, and a pro shop.
Throughout its history, the KCC has proudly produced a long list of provincial and national winners, with the club's impact extending to hosting prestigious events, including the 1998 World Curling Championships, The Brier in 1996 and 2014, the BC Scotties in 2007, the 2022 Scotties BC Women’s Curling Championship and the Scotties in 2023, as well as numerous provincials.
“To this day, we are still providing strong teams, especially on the ladies’ side in recent years,” said Randy Nelson, decorated competitive curler and part of the Board of Directors at KCC. “Kamloops likely has some of the most successful curlers of most clubs in the country.”
In fact, in January of 2003, the Canada Cup was born and held in Kamloops for six consecutive years.
Despite challenges posed by COVID-19, the KCC has showcased a rebound for the past couple of years. Thanks to the variety of leagues, programs and events put on by the club, curling in Kamloops is rapidly expanding.
As Nelson shared, “The club’s Learn-to-Curl programs have brought over 120 people to the club, and the Burger and Beer nights are becoming popular within the community. Our junior curling program on Saturdays has also been growing, with approximately 60 kids enrolled for the 10-week program.”
This year, we also celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Kamloops International Crown of Curling and the 75th anniversary of the Men’s Sportsmans Bonspiel.
As we commemorate these milestones, the legacy of the Kamloops Curling Club stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of curling in the community. From historic triumphs to present-day successes, the club
continues to evolve, welcoming new generations and contributing to Kamloops’ sports scene as the tournament capital of Canada.
Whether you're a longstanding member or a newcomer eager to contribute to the next chapter of the club, we invite you to stay connected, involved, and passionate about the game we all love.
