At the Women in Curling Summits, connection is as powerful as competition

At the Women in Curling Summits, Connection Is as Powerful as Competition

By Jolene Latimer

Arrival in Kelowna

Linda Bolton stood at the arrival gate of Kelowna International Airport, eagerly scanning every face coming through the sliding doors. Her friend and curling colleague leaned in and whispered,

“You have to breathe.”

Bolton laughed, knowing she was as excited as a fan. Reigning world curling champion Rachel Homan had just arrived in the Okanagan to attend the British Columbia Women in Curling Summit in Kamloops, an event Bolton had worked hard to organize for months.

Meeting a Champion

Bolton recalled,

“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.

She added,

“I was thinking: We’re actually having Rachel Homan at our club. What a treat that will be for all the people.”

Journey to Kamloops

During the two-hour drive to Kamloops, the conversation flowed naturally. They discussed family life, curling training, and the challenge of balancing both priorities.

Bolton said,

“She talked a lot about her family and how devoted they are to backing her. It was really cool.”

Women in Curling Summit

Bolton had dedicated months to preparing the Women in Curling Summit in Kamloops, which is part of Curling Canada’s national initiative to promote leadership and participation among women in the sport.

Author’s summary: The Women in Curling Summit highlights the deep connections and shared stories that inspire female athletes and strengthen leadership in the sport across Canada.

Curling Canada — 2025-11-06