Whistler hosts world’s top lugers

The top luge competitors in the world make their way to Whistler this week for the Luge World Championships at the Whistler Sliding Centre – home to the bobsleigh, luge and skeleton events for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. The 2013 FIL (International Luge Federation) World Championships race days are Feb. 1 and 2, but the excitement begins long before that with the opening ceremony in Whistler Village. The Parade of Athletes begins in Whistler Olympic Plaza at 6:45 p.m. today (Jan. 30) with the opening ceremony taking place in Whistler Village at 7 p.m. featuring a free outdoor concert with Vancouver indie band The Boom Booms. More than 150 athletes representing 25 countries will compete in men’s and women’s singles, doubles and team relay races with competition beginning at 3 p.m. each day. Tickets are $10 each (children 6 and under receive complimentary admission). Tickets can be purchased at http://www.whistler.com .