At the Women in Curling Summits, Connection Is as Powerful as Competition
By Jolene Latimer
Anticipation at Kelowna Airport
Linda Bolton stood at the arrival gate of Kelowna International Airport, eagerly watching every new face that appeared through the sliding doors. Her friend and curling colleague nudged her and quietly said, “You have to breathe.” Bolton laughed, knowing she was practically craning her neck like a fan but unable to help herself.
Welcoming a Champion
Reigning world curling champion Rachel Homan had just landed in the Okanagan to attend the British Columbia Women in Curling Summit in Kamloops, an event Bolton had worked hard to organize for months.
“When I picked up Rachel from the airport and I saw her walking toward us, that was the time when I knew the hard work was going to be worth it,” Bolton said. “I was thinking: We’re actually having Rachel Homan at our club. What a treat that will be for all the people.”
Connecting on the Drive
The two-hour drive back to Kamloops was filled with conversations about family, curling preparation, and how Rachel balances both.
“She talked a lot about her family and how devoted they are to backing her,” Bolton recalled. “It was really cool.”
About the Women in Curling Summit
Bolton spent months preparing for the Women in Curling Summit, part of Curling Canada’s national initiative to promote women’s leadership and participation in curling.
Author's summary: The Women in Curling Summit highlights the powerful connections and shared experiences that inspire and support women in the sport, alongside the competitive spirit.