Curling teams led by Rachel Homan and Brad Jacobs have been selected to represent Canada at the Pan Continental Curling Championships, serving as qualifiers for the upcoming 2026 men’s and women’s world championships.
According to Curling Canada, Homan’s squad from the Ottawa Curling Club and Jacobs’ team from Calgary’s Glencoe Club will be competing in Virginia, Minn., from October 19-26. Both teams secured their spots by winning their respective Canadian championships earlier this year.
Homan, who claimed the Pan Continental women’s title in Lacombe, Alta., last year, will be aiming to defend her title. Meanwhile, the Jacobs team will be making their debut as Canada’s representatives, taking over from Brad Gushue’s team, which competed in the previous three editions of the championship.
Jacobs is eyeing a top-five finish in Minnesota to secure Canada’s entry at next year’s men’s world championship in Ogden City, Utah, after winning a bronze medal at the men’s 2025 world championship in Moose Jaw, Sask., alongside Marc Kennedy, Brett Gallant, and Ben Hebert.
Expressing his anticipation, Jacobs mentioned, “We understand the tremendous responsibility that comes with representing Canada in global curling competitions.” The team is also looking forward to the Montana’s Canadian Curling Trials in Halifax.
As hosts of the women’s world championship in Calgary from March 14-22, Canada has already secured a spot in the tournament. Homan, Tracy Fleury, Emma Miskew, and Sarah Wilkes clinched this year’s women’s world championship in Uijeongbu, South Korea.
“We value the opportunity to wear our national colors and are diligently preparing for the upcoming competition in Minnesota,” Homan stated.
The Pan Continental Curling Championships will provide a crucial platform for these Canadian teams to showcase their skills and readiness for the global stage, setting the stage for intense competition and high-stakes games.