Manitoba’s Kaitlyn Lawes continues to dominate at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts, securing a playoff spot as the first team in the Canadian women’s curling championship. With a 6-0 record, Lawes’ team from Winnipeg has been in top form, outscoring opponents 58-24 overall, with coach Marcel Rocque praising their upward trend.
In other matches, Canada’s Kerri Einarson defeated Jolene Campbell, Ontario’s Hailey Armstong won against Taylor Reese-Hansen, and Nova Scotia’s Taylour Stevens beat Nicky Kaufman. Einarson, a four-time Scotties champion, sits in second place behind Lawes in the Pool A standings.
Hailey Armstrong gave Lawes a tough challenge in a tied game on Sunday, which Lawes turned around with a five-ender in the ninth. Armstrong’s victory on Tuesday over Reese-Hansen was crucial for the home province, aiming for a playoff spot in a competitive field.
Lawes, a two-time Olympic champion, earned her place in the event after a strong performance in the Manitoba championship. Lead Kristin Gordon expressed satisfaction with the team’s hard work and progress. Vice Selena Njegovan has taken on the role of skip at this event, with Laura Walker stepping in at second.
Beth Peterson leads Pool B with a 5-0 record, securing an extra-end victory over Prince Edward Island’s Amanda Power. Meanwhile, Nova Scotia’s Christina Black and Selena Sturmay of Alberta also clinched important wins to solidify their positions in the tournament standings.
The competition is heating up as teams vie for a spot in the playoffs, with the ultimate goal of representing Canada at the world women’s curling championship in Calgary in March. The final is set for Sunday, promising an exciting conclusion to the event.