Team GB Triumphs Over Power Cuts to Launch Curling Campaign
Team GB kicked off their curling campaign at the Winter Olympic Games under unexpected circumstances. The mixed doubles team, consisting of Bruce Mouat and Jen Dodds, faced a partial power cut during their first match. Despite this disruption, they triumphed over Norway, winning 8-6 at the Cortina Curling Stadium.
Technical Difficulties Affect Opening Night
The Olympic organizers encountered logistical challenges when a power outage caused a brief delay just five minutes into the match. Staff hurried to resolve the issue, showcasing the complexity of hosting such a large international event.
- The match was held at the Cortina Curling Stadium.
- Norway’s duo, Kristin Skaslien and Magnus Nedregotten, were previous Olympic silver medalists.
- Both teams are ranked among the world’s best in curling.
Match Highlights
Team GB’s victory was facilitated by impressive performances, particularly from Dodds. In a tense match, her strategic play led to multiple scoring opportunities, including:
- Securing three points in the second end by expertly nudging Norway’s stone aside.
- Deliberately placing her stone in the fifth end to limit Norway’s score.
- Contributing to another three-point gain in the sixth end, which was crucial for the win.
Reflecting on the match, Mouat described the experience as uniquely exhilarating despite the initial power problems, likening it to “dance and a boogie in a night club.”
Looking Ahead in the Tournament
As the competition unfolds, Mouat and Dodds are set to face more challenges. They have two more matches scheduled on Thursday:
- Vs. Estonia at 9:05 AM UK time
- Vs. Czechia at 6:05 PM UK time
Dods emphasized the importance of their opening win, stating it serves as a significant confidence booster. She noted the necessity for improvement before facing strong competitors like Estonia, a team they have encountered often this season.
Viewing Information
For those wishing to follow Team GB’s curling journey, TNT Sports on discovery+ will provide comprehensive coverage of the Milano Cortina 2026 Games, featuring over 850 hours of live action from all events.
