FAQ

A Rookie’s Guide to the Bonspiel

Most of the 176 men and women who were rookies in 2023.
          The 176 Rookies from 2023

 

You’ve never been to the QIB and you have a few questions?  Or maybe you feel like you haven’t figured out how the Quebec International is unique?  Well this page might help.

 

The 120 Rookies of the Centenial - 2013
     The 120 rookies of 2013, the Centenary


Why does registration start on Saturday if curling starts on Sunday?

Returning teams generally arrive in Quebec City on Friday or Saturday before the official start of the ‘spiel.  They come early to enjoy the camaraderie during team receptions that are held in the Chateau Frontenac.  These receptions are offered by participating teams and are open to all the curlers.  Each offers complementary drinks and food. Then, Saturday evening, the official opening ceremony is held and then followed by the President's party. 

Rookies should be sure that they attend the Rookie Welcoming Ceremony and dinner which start at 4 pm. 

Why does registration start on Saturday if curling starts on Sunday?
Where will I eat during the week?

Where will I eat during the week?

Saturday, you will be able to eat at the receptions at the Chateau.  Various receptions traditionally offer choices from wings and ribs, clam chowder, cheese and paté, hot dogs, smoked meat sandwiches and the list goes on. Of course, most curlers will also take advantage of the many remarkable restaurants in the city.  Many favourites are within walking distance of the hotel and many restaurants in the city offer curlers discounts during the bonspiel.
 

Once the curling starts, there meal options at each of the clubs and there are some receptions at the hotel.  We would recommend that you take advantage of the Chili bar supper organized by the Jacques Cartier Club on Tuesday evening. Get your tickets at headquarters or at the bar of the club as early as you can. 
 
Monday evening, all the curlers gather in the formal ballroom for the annual banquet. 

How will I get around the city?

The Chateau Frontenac is located in the heart of historic Old Quebec City.  There is a large variety of excellent restaurants and shops within walking distance of the hotel. 


Our shuttle bus will bring bonspielers between the Chateau and each of the clubs. This is a great advantage as it removes concerns over designated drivers and is much less expensive than taking taxis.

How will I get around the city?

How much will the QIB cost me?

Registration for rookies is only $360 (plus taxes).

 
Standard rooms at the Chateau are available to curlers who book through the Bonspiel headquarters at reduced rates:  in 2025, rooms will be $209/night (double occupancy before applicable taxes).
 
Here's a hint: join the Fairmont loyalty program, “Accor Live Limitless” for no cost so you will benefit from:
  • access to preferential service lines at the front desk,
  • reduced rates on services,
  • free local phone calls,
  • free Internet access in your room,
  • free delivery of your choice of daily newspaper
  • complementary night's stay for future stays at the Chateau or other Fairmont properties!


Is there anything I need to bring?

  • Bring your curling gear.  Although there is a lot of socializing during the week, each team will also be doing a lot of curling!
  • Bring some pain killers.  Although there is lots of curling, there is also lots of socializing!
  • Gentlemen, bring a jacket and tie.  Ladies please bring something appropriate for a more formal setting. This more formal attire is strongly suggested for the official opening and is required for the Grand Banquet on Monday evening.
  • Bring winter weather gear.  The end of January is usually very cold and snow is always a feature of Quebec City in the winter.
  • Pack a bathing suit. You might find time to enjoy some time in the hotel pool or hot tub.

Is there anything I need to bring?

I don’t speak French. Will I feel out of place at the QIB?

Certainly not!  QIB curlers come from the Maritimes, Ontario, Saskatchewan, BC, The United States, Scotland and Switzerland.  Our headquarters staff are all bilingual and most people you will have contact with outside the bonspiel (taxi drivers, waiters, store clerks etc.) will also be able to help you in English.


Are there any special events for Rookies?

Yes, the Rookie welcoming ceremony is held on Saturday afternoon. At this ceremony, in addition to being welcomed into our bonspiel community, details will be provided about the friendly competition that is held to determine the Rookie of the Year. Not to be missed! 

Are there any special events for Rookies?

I'm interested in participating but I don't have a complete team. Can I still register and play?

You can certainly register as an individual.  Often, teams register but would like to add a player to their roster. Likewise, if you have three or four players and are looking for another player or two, you will see on the registration form that you can ask us to find you an additional player or two.  We will do our best to accommodate you!


If you want to talk to us about your particular circumstances, contact us and we'll see what we can do.


I want to stay at the Chateau Frontenac, how many nights should I reserve?

The QIB runs from Saturday to Wednesday but, you will want to be sure that you are settled into the hotel by 4 pm for the rookie welcoming ceremony whci is immediately followed by the rookie dinner.  

Often, teams come in on Firday so they can enjoy a nice relaxing meal at tone of the fabulous restaurants in the old city. 

And when should we plan on leaving? There is quite a bit of curling still on Wednesday. Often, rookie teams come thinking that they are not a "competitive" team. One of the advantages of having 5 games minimum is that after your first three games, you play against teams that have similar records and so teams tend to play against teams of similar abilities. That means that even if you lose your first 4 games, you could play in a final on Wednesday afternoon.

Then, medal and trophy presentations as well as closing ceremonies including presentation of "Rookie of the year" are held on Wednesday evening. Following that, is the incoming president's party.

You'll want to stay through until Thursday morning.


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