One of the biggest women’s fastpitch tournaments in the world is just a few weeks away from touching down again in South Surrey.
The Scotiabank Canadian Open Fastpitch International Championship is set to begin July 12-22, with teams from around the globe competing for titles in six different divisions.
This year’s tournament – which is now in its 30th year, including the event’s Canada Cup predecessor – will feature more than 80 teams. The format of the event is much the same as in previous years, with women’s international, women’s elite, Futures Gold and Select (U19) and Showcase Gold and Select (U16) divisions.
Among the teams taking part in the women’s international showdown this year include the two-time defending Open champions – and 2012 ISF Women’s World Champions – from Japan, as well as the U.S., Australian and Canadian national teams. China-Nanjing and Venezuela are also in the field.
The women’s elite division – which runs June 13-21 – will feature the Canadian Open debut of a team from India, as Champions Sport Club are set to take part in the event for the first time, competing against elite-division returnees such as the Quebec Rebelles, Team BC and the White Rock Renegades.
The Select divisions of both the Futures and Select tourneys will run July 12-15 while the Gold teams will square off July 15-21.
In addition to Softball City – where the women’s international and elite games will be staged – other venues for the Canadian Open include Sunnyside Park (15455 26 Ave.) and Cloverdale Athletic Park (6410 168 St.).
For more on the Canadian Open, including ticket information and schedules, visit www.canadianopenfastpitch.com