The Continental Cup is a unique Ryder Cup style competition, with players competing in men's, women's and mixed events which challenge the skills of the game's premier shotmakers. Prior to Regina 2002, the top men's and women's curlers from North America had never played together on the same teams—let alone, in international competition against the best players from elsewhere in the world.

The 2008 Continental Cup brings together twelve of the best curling teams in the world (six representing Team World, six representing Team North America), competing in a unique competition.  A total of 400 points is available from four types of competition - Mixed Doubles, Singles, Team Skins and Mixed Skins.  When the competition is completed, the side with the most points (first side to 201) will be declared the winner and be presented with the Continental Cup trophy.

About the Mixed Doubles Competition

Consider the strategy required when each end begins with a rock placed behind the button, guarded by another positioned squarely on the centre line 12 feet in front of the house! Each side has only five rocks per end and must determine which of the two players will throw first or second — a choice that can be made each end.

About the Singles Competition

This is when it all gets personal, as the best men and women in the world square off — one on one — in an exciting skills competition, comprised of six classic curling shots. Each side selects six throwers, with all three sheets featuring simultaneous action.

About the Team Competition

While the Continental Cup is all about innovation, there's always a place for tradition when you assemble the world's curling powers under one roof. In this event, the teams play with their regular foursomes and follow the traditional rules of curling, incorporating the four rock free guard rule. Each side plays a total of six men's and six women's team matches. The results of these games often determine the key match-ups for what is to follow for the next two days.

About the Skins Competition

All the excitement builds to the drama of the Skins showdown! Much sleep will have been lost the night before by captains who are responsible for determining the match-ups. Major points are on the line, so you are sure to see aggressive strategy combined with exceptional shotmaking. Each men's and women's side will play three games in addition to two mixed games, with point values escalating each draw.