It’s been busy year of travelling for Swiss foursome

AARAU, SWITZERLAND — Silvana Tirinzoni and her teammates have certainly compiled their share of air miles during the 201112 curling season.

The commitment has been worth it as the Switzerland rink has earned one of the eight women’s spots in the Grand Slam of Curling Players’ Championship in Summerside from April 17 to 22.

“We have never travelled as much as we did this year,” said Tirinzoni, 32. “Besides Norway, Scotland and Canada, we have also been to Japan and China.

“All the travelling was very exciting, and it paid off. We qualified for the playoffs in almost every tournament we competed in.”

The

Tirinzoni

rink’s globetrotting included Canadian stops in Red Deer and Saskatoon, and the Players’ Championship will mark the skip’s 13th trip to Canada.

“But I have never been in P.E.I. before,” added Tirinzoni. “I have only heard positive things about this province (P.E.I.).

“That the Players’ Championship is the reason we get to see P. E. I. makes it even more exciting. I can’t wait to get on the plane.”

Tirinzoni will be joined in Summerside by third stone Irene Schori, second stone Esther Neuenschwander and lead Sandra Gant.

“This is the third season we have played together,” said Tirinzoni. “Before, we played on two different teams. Esther and I became Swiss champions twice, and represented Switzerland at two world championships. Irene was alternate at the Olympics in Vancouver, and became mixed doubles world champion in 2008 and 2009.”

Tirinzoni describes the Players’ Championship as the biggest event her rink has competed in. It’s also the team’s first Grand Slam event.

“We are not used to the crowd, and not often (do we) play on arena ice,” offered Tirinzoni. “Many things will be new for us. I hope we can adjust to that as quick as possible.”

The Tirinzoni rink will be well prepared.

“We decide before every game how we want to go into the game,” said Tirinzoni. “Our strategy usually depends on ice conditions and opponents.

“Therefore, we don’t really have a certain style.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO Members of the Silvana Tirinzoni-skipped curling rink are, from right: Tirinzoni, third stone Irene Schori, second stone Esther Neuenschwander and lead Sandra Gant.