Winter Olympics 2026: Harri Lill, Marie Kaldvee Celebrate Proud Olympic Debut
As the Winter Olympics 2026 unfold in Italy, Estonian curlers Harri Lill and Marie Kaldvee make their Olympic debut. Their journey to these prestigious Games has been marked by perseverance and dedication. The duo began their quest for Olympic glory at the World Mixed Doubles Curling Championships in 2016, aiming for a spot in PyeongChang 2018.
The Road to the Olympics
The initial attempt at the World Mixed Doubles Championships did not yield the desired outcome. Following that, Lill and Kaldvee faced several challenges and setbacks in their journey, participating in a total of seven world championships over the years. Despite the difficulties, their resolve remained steadfast.
In 2024, the pair achieved a major milestone. They secured second place at the World Championships, which granted them a direct qualification spot for the Olympic Games in Fredericton. This achievement marked a turning point in their careers and allowed them to fulfill their Olympic dreams.
Life in the Olympic Village
Now in Italy, Lill and Kaldvee are fully embracing the Olympic experience. The breathtaking mountain views of the Olympic Village have captivated them. Kaldvee remarked on their culinary experiences, highlighting the Italian cuisine: “Well, the pizza is there at breakfast, at lunch, and then at dinner.”
Lill laughed in agreement, adding, “And pasta as well!” The duo enjoys the food while also competing in the mixed doubles curling event.
Looking Ahead
With the tournament’s round-robin format, Lill and Kaldvee have several opportunities to showcase their skills. They aim to finish in the top four, which would pave the way for a chance at Olympic history. The upcoming matches promise excitement as the Estonian duo strives for success.
- Olympic Debut: Harri Lill and Marie Kaldvee
- Qualification Achieved: Second place at 2024 World Championships
- Location: Olympic Village in Italy
- Culinary Highlight: Italian pizza and pasta
As the Olympics continue, fans eagerly support Lill and Kaldvee in their quest for glory. Their journey is a testament to their resilience and the spirit of the Games, showcasing the heart of competition and camaraderie.
