Who Is the 61-Year-Old Moonwalking Ice Rink Sensation?

Mark Callan, a 61-year-old ice technician from Glasgow, has become an unexpected social media sensation during the Winter Olympics in Cortina, Italy, thanks to his unique method of pebbling the ice. Sporting a backpack and hose, Callan moonwalks down the curling rink, creating laughter and joy among viewers. His work, critical for ensuring the quality of the curling surface, has gone viral, highlighting the lighter side of the Winter Olympics and showcasing the quirky charm of his role.

Last updated: 05 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Mark Callan is making headlines at the Winter Olympics as the chief ice technician responsible for preparing the curling rink. His unconventional style of pebbling the ice has garnered attention on social media, with videos of him moonwalking while spraying water going viral. This attention is a refreshing break from the competitive intensity typically associated with the Olympics and has brought joy to viewers during the event.

Key takeaways

• Mark Callan is the chief ice technician at the Winter Olympics, responsible for pebbling the curling rink.
• His unique method of moonwalking while working has gone viral, creating a light-hearted atmosphere.
• Callan's background in curling started in Aberfoyle, where he first fell in love with the sport.

Timeline: how we got here

Mark Callan's journey to becoming a sensation at the Winter Olympics can be traced back to his early curling experiences:

• 1980s: Callan starts curling at Forest Hills in Aberfoyle.
• Mid-2000s: He becomes more invested in the technical side of curling, learning about ice preparation.
• 2022: Callan is appointed chief ice technician for the Winter Olympics in Cortina.
• February 2022: Callan's moonwalking pebbling technique goes viral, attracting widespread attention.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recently, videos of Callan's moonwalking while pebbling the ice have taken social media by storm. These clips have been met with amusement and creativity, with various parodies and remixes appearing online. This week, Callan is enjoying the unexpected fame, with friends and family sharing the content and joining in the laughter.

What was already established

Prior to this viral moment, Callan was known in the curling community for his expertise in ice preparation. His role involves using a gravity-fed backpack to sprinkle water on the ice, which freezes to create the ideal surface for curling. His professional background and dedication to the sport have made him a respected figure in the curling world.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While Callan's moonwalking antics are entertaining, they also highlight the importance of ice technicians in sports. For households, this brings a sense of connection to the Winter Olympics, fostering interest in curling and winter sports. The light-hearted nature of Callan's role may encourage families to engage more with the event and explore curling as a potential sport to follow or participate in.

Businesses and jobs

Mark Callan's visibility during the Olympics has the potential to positively impact businesses related to curling. Increased interest in the sport could lead to a rise in curling clubs and ice rinks in the UK, which would create job opportunities for coaches, technicians, and support staff. Furthermore, as curling gains more public attention, businesses may see a boost in merchandise sales related to the sport.

Policy and regulation

The attention on curling during the Olympics might prompt discussions about funding and support for winter sports in the UK. As more people become interested in curling, there could be calls for increased investment in facilities and training programs, especially for young athletes. It also raises awareness of the need for skilled technicians like Callan, essential for maintaining high standards in ice sports.

Numbers that matter

• 15 litres: The amount of water Callan's backpack holds for pebbling the ice.
• 1956: The year the Cortina Curling Stadium was originally built for the Winter Olympics.
• 61: Callan's age, showcasing that passion for sports can transcend age barriers.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Pebbling: The process of sprinkling water droplets on the ice to create a textured surface for curling.
• Gravity-fed backpack: A device used by ice technicians to distribute water evenly across the ice surface.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the Winter Olympics continue, Callan's role will remain crucial for the ongoing events. His viral fame may encourage more viewers to engage with curling broadcasts.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Following the Olympics, there might be an increase in interest in curling clubs and events in the UK, potentially leading to new initiatives aimed at promoting the sport.

Signals to watch

• Monitor social media engagement with curling content and Callan's videos.
• Watch for announcements regarding funding or initiatives aimed at growing winter sports in the UK.

Practical guidance

Do

• Explore local curling clubs if interested in trying out the sport.
• Follow social media channels for curling events to stay updated.

Don’t

• Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about the sport if you enjoy watching the Olympics.
• Don’t underestimate the role of ice technicians in delivering a quality sporting experience.

Checklist

• Check local listings for curling events during the Winter Olympics.
• Look for highlights and updates on BBC Sport and social media platforms.
• Consider attending a curling club open day to learn more about the sport.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Callan's rise to fame is a light-hearted story, it also illustrates the unpredictability of social media and public attention. His experience shows that even minor roles can become prominent in the right context. However, it is essential to consider the pressures that can come with sudden fame and the potential for it to overshadow the serious aspects of the sport and the work behind it.

Bottom line

Mark Callan's unexpected viral fame at the Winter Olympics highlights the joy and humour that can arise in sporting events. As a dedicated ice technician, he plays a crucial role in the success of curling, and his antics have brought a smile to many. As the Olympics unfold, his story serves as a reminder of the human side of sports and the importance of all roles in creating memorable experiences.

FAQs

Who is Mark Callan?

Mark Callan is a 61-year-old ice technician from Glasgow responsible for preparing the curling rink at the Winter Olympics. His unique pebbling method has gained viral attention.

What is pebbling in curling?

Pebbling is the process of spraying water droplets onto the ice surface to create a textured layer that enhances the game's playability.

Why has Callan's technique gone viral?

Callan's moonwalking style while working has been widely shared on social media, evoking laughter and creativity from viewers, making him an unexpected star at the Olympics.