Statistics show a huge economic spinoff for Moose Jaw as the city hosts the World Men’s Curling Championship. The championship got underway Saturday and runs until April 6 at the Temple Gardens Centre, where an estimated cumulative attendance of 55,000 to 60,000 curling fans is expected throughout the week.

This will be an opportunity to see the No. 1 ranked Bruce Mouat team representing Scotland, the Brad Jacobs rink for Canada, and defending world champion Niklas Edin of Sweden.

Curling Canada estimates the event will generate between $12 million and $15 million in economic activity for the city.

Moose Jaw and District Chamber of Commerce CEO Rob Clark says local businesses will have to be ready because it will be a busy week accommodating all the visitors. Curling Canada expects over 22.6 million impressions from their social media accounts.

Meanwhile, there will be an estimated broadcast audience of over 5 million people nationally. With 13 teams from across the globe competing, the global broadcast audience is expected to bring another 5 million eyes on Moose Jaw.

(files from discovermoosejaw.com)