Eleven of the 14 people who want to be mayor faced off Sunday in what was billed as Calgary's first mayoral debate.

But the room was filled with campaign workers and much of the time was spent with the mayor hopefuls fielding puffball questions from their supporters.

One perceived front running candidate was missing.

Organizers say Barb Higgins declined repeated requests to attend, choosing to spend the day attending cultural events in the city.

It angered debate organizers, but political observers say it's a good strategy for a perceived frontrunner.

For a complete list of declared mayoral candidates and other information about the up coming election click here.