Canada edges Great Britain in a dramatic Olympic curling final
The men's curling final at the Cortina Olympics saw Canada defeat Great Britain by two points in a tightly contested match. While the excitement was quieter than other Olympic sports events, the game drew attention for its skill and a minor controversy. Off the ice, a surprising cultural twist replaced traditional Scottish performances with an Italian piping group.
The final between Canada and Team GB remained close until the ninth end, when Canada secured a lead they held to the finish. Coach Paul Webster later credited the win to precise shot-making rather than any special tactics. The victory came despite an earlier incident in the preliminaries, where Canada's Mark Kennedy faced accusations from Sweden over a double touch—a claim that sparked a heated argument but is unlikely to have lasting consequences.
Curling has deep roots in Scotland, where the sport began in 1716. Major tournaments often feature kilts and bagpipes as a nod to its heritage, though this year's Olympics saw the Veneto Piping School from Italy perform instead. Scottish fans still turned out in force, waving their national flag and cheering loudly for Team GB's athletes, all of whom hail from Scotland.
The sport remains a niche but passionate tradition, with around 15,000 active curlers in Scotland. Historic clubs like the Duddingston Curling Society in Edinburgh and the Royal Caledonian Curling Club highlight its strong presence in central Scotland. Though curling only captures widespread German interest during the Olympics, its dedicated following ensures a lively atmosphere every four years.
Canada's win marks another chapter in Olympic curling, with the next Winter Games set for the French Alps in four years. The controversy around Mark Kennedy appears likely to fade, leaving the focus on the sport's skill and tradition. For now, Scotland's curling community continues to celebrate its heritage, even as the Olympics introduce new cultural elements.
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