Top-Notch Curlers Compete in Iron Range Tournament

EVELETH - It's the only bonspiel in the area, and the who's who of curlers are there."There's a lot of money and a lot of ranking points is what we're after," said Jared Zezel, with Team Craig Brown. This week marks the 11th year of the Curl Mesabi Classic."This is one of the last stops until the competition season starts," Curl Mesabi Classic Chairmen Phill Drobnick said. This bonspiel inside the Curl Mesabi Facility in Eveleth gives the high-level competitors the chance to hone their skills before attempting to climb the ranks."It's always a well–run event and good competition here, so it's definitely one we like to make it to," said Sarah Anderson with Team Christensen."This is really the only way we get to practice together and play," said Zezel. Hitting the thick sheet of ice are U.S. and Canadian national teams and world champions."The highest ranked team we have here is the Heath McCormick team whose ranked 19th in the world," said Drobnick. They're sliding stones in hopes of earning the most points in the game sometimes referred to as chess on ice."It's very strategic and it can be very competitive and intense at times, but also it's very social to," said Anderson."It's an opportunity to come and watch some of the best curling in the country." Players tell FOX 21, it’s not as easy as it looks.  Flaws in their technique are quickly revealed."Go out there and play -- if we lose -- figure out what to do next, if we win, it's great," said Zezel."Definitely work on our team systems this week; just get into a groove," said Anderson. The winning teams will take home cash prizes.  The points curlers earn here goes toward winning the national championship."Our short-term goal would be trying to qualify for the Olympics," said Zezel."It will be tough, but hopefully it goes well," said Anderson. The finals will kick off this Sunday at 3 p.m.  The event is free and open to the public.