One of the longest running curling events in Canada is looking for a little help in order to make this year's contest a continuation of past successes.

For one, the four-day Crown of Curling is looking for volunteers to take tickets, keep track of points and work social events, Len Bosch, the event's chairman, said during a press conference Wednesday at the Kamloops Curling Club.

"We'll gladly speak to anyone who wants to be a volunteer," he said.

But the Crown of Curling also is seeking a title sponsor to headline the competition in its 38th year. Bosch said the $74,000 in prize money is raised through ticket sales and sponsorship dollars.

The Crown of Curling takes place Oct. 21- 24 at the KCC on Victoria Street.

Speaking at the venue, Bosch said the event has enjoyed a good relationship with its presenting sponsor, the Thompson Hotel. Curlers who are attracted from all over the world fill the hotel during the four days, which speaks to the benefit of sponsoring such an event.

"It's a big, long-term relationship," he said.

And this year is shaping up to be a big one, said Bosch. Eleven international rinks - from Russia, Korea, Japan, Switzerland and China - have committed to attend.

They will join competitors from across B.C., including Abbotsford's Kelly Law, who won a bronze medal at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Marla Mallett of Nanaimo.

"This is really starting to get some international flavour," said Bosch.

Kamloops rinks skipped by Karla Thompson, Brent Yamada, Dennis Graber, Mike Smith and Grant Olsen are scheduled to play.

The Crown features 24 men's and 24 women's teams. All of the women's slots are filled and 16 of the men's spots are booked. There's no doubt in Bosch's mind that it will be a full house by the time the first rock is thrown.

"We're confident we will fill the 24 slots," he said.

Not only is the Crown of Curling good for the players, with points counting toward their Olympic standing, but it's also good for the club. Brian Windsor, a club director, said thousands of people will pass through the gate and the venue's lounge will be full every night.

"That is a lot of people for a club this size," said Windsor.

For more information on the event, or to inquire about being a sponsor or volunteer, phone 250-372-5432.