The 2018 Ford World Women's Curling Championship is officially underway.
A crowd of roughly 2,500 spectators attended the opening ceremonies Saturday, at North Bay's Memorial Gardens.
Nearly 16 months of planning led up to this day.
The host committee, along with 401 volunteers, have worked tirelessly behind the scenes since it was announced the city would host this prestigious event.
"We are grateful for the confidence shown by our partners at the World Curling Federation who gave us the opportunity to bring the world's best curling teams to Canada," Resby Coutts, chair of the Board of Governors for Curling Canada, told the enthusiastic crowd.
"This is an example of what a smaller city in Canada can do with a world championship. We know it is going to be a memorable week. We've worked hand in hand with the Northern Ontario Curling Association in building this sport in Canada and this region. Their support and enthusiasm was a factor in wanting to put the event here."
Based on the turnout for the opening ceremony, Coutts predicts a great week for the 13 teams vying for the World Women's Curling title.
Media from around the world are in the city covering the event.
"There are three teams from the Pacific zone, there are two teams from the America zone, and the rest of the teams are from Europe. It used to be 12 teams, we added a 13th team this year. Spectators can expect to see some outstanding curling. We've got teams who played recently in the Olympics, and did very well. They have to meet the challenge of rising to the occasion again, and I know it's going to be a challenge after having played so well, so recently, and then have to come back up to compete," said Coutts.
"We also have Canadian champion Jennifer Jones, an Olympic gold medalist from four years ago who didn't go to the Olympics this year, and really wants to reestablish herself, and prove that she's still part of this crowd. So there's going to be something for everybody."
Vice-chair Dave Bennett, extended a warm welcome to the teams and their fans, on behalf of the other vice-chairs, Rick Miller and Mark Brown, and the host committee.
"Our 13 teams are representing their countries with pride and determination. We are confident their skills and fair play will be of the highest calibre, providing you the fans with many memorable moments of excellent shot making throughout the nine days. We hope you will also have the opportunity to enjoy some well deserved down time by enjoying our great city, just north enough to be perfect."
With the eyes of the world on her, North Bay's Kate Sherry, three-time Ontario U18 girls curling champion, 2017 Canadian U18 champion and North Bay's 2017 female athlete of the year, delivered the ceremonial first stone.
"There was a little bit of pressure, but it was mostly exciting just to be able to throw the opening rock for such a big event like this. It's really cool that they would choose me," grinned Sherry.
"Everyone's been telling me 'all you have to do is pin it.' It's easy enough when you're out there practicing alone, but when you're in front of a big crowd like that it's a little different. It's definitely an incredible opportunity to be at this event, and it can definitely inspire young girls to pursue a world championship."
The final message to the curlers from the board chair of Curling Canada was simple.
"Enjoy the experience, embrace the stage, you've earned it," said Coutts.
"We, your family, your friends, and your fans all look forward to nine spectacular days of curling. I wish each of you the best of luck on the ice, and I hope as you head home, you go with a lifetime of memories."
Bennett says ticket sales are going well, with roughly 80% sold, and only about 200 tickets left for the gold medal game next Sunday.
