What Do Curlers Do Off the Ice When Not at the Olympics?

The world of curling is often underestimated, with many unaware that Team GB's curlers are full-time athletes who dedicate their lives to the sport. Training year-round, engaging in rigorous physical conditioning, and strategising like chess players, they are committed to competing at the highest level, as evidenced by their preparation for the Winter Olympics.

Last updated: 19 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the Winter Olympics approach, Team GB's curlers are intensifying their training, solidifying their status as elite athletes. The upcoming competition will showcase their dedication and skill, with many curlers striving for gold medals that could elevate the sport's profile in the UK. Their preparation includes not just physical training but also tactical planning and mental conditioning, reflecting a comprehensive approach to sports performance.

Key takeaways

• Team GB curlers train full-time, dedicating 44 weeks a year to the sport.
• Training includes on-ice practice, strength conditioning, and mental preparation.
• Despite their commitment, financial rewards remain limited for many athletes.

Timeline: how we got here

Team GB's journey in curling has evolved significantly over the past 24 years since Rhona Martin's historic gold medal win in Salt Lake City in 2002. Here’s a brief timeline of key milestones:

• 2002: Rhona Martin leads Team GB to its first Winter Olympic gold in curling.
• 2018: Team GB wins a gold medal in women’s curling at the PyeongChang Olympics.
• 2022: Team GB continues to build on its Olympic success with a strong showing at the Beijing Games.
• 2023: Preparations intensify for the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina in February 2026.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

As the Winter Olympics draw nearer, Team GB's curlers are ramping up their training schedule, focusing on both physical and strategic elements to enhance their performance. They are also engaging in outreach by discussing inclusivity and STEM education, broadening their influence beyond the sport.

What was already established

It is well-documented that curling requires not only physical prowess but also mental acuity. The athletes have been training full-time and engaging in various strength and conditioning programmes tailored for the demands of the sport. The financial challenges faced by many curlers, despite their professional status, have also been a known issue.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK households, the visibility of curling during the Olympics often results in increased interest in the sport, leading to higher attendance at local curling clubs and events. This could boost participation rates, as families look to engage in new sports activities.

Businesses and jobs

Businesses involved in sports equipment, training facilities, and local curling clubs may see a surge in demand as interest in curling peaks. Additionally, there are opportunities for sponsorship and partnerships, particularly for successful teams like Bruce Mouat's rink, which can attract commercial interest.

Policy and regulation

The success of Team GB can influence government support for sports funding and initiatives aimed at promoting winter sports. Increased visibility can lead to discussions about enhanced funding for training facilities and athlete support programmes across the UK, potentially impacting policy decisions in sports administration.

Numbers that matter

• 44 weeks: The number of weeks Team GB curlers train annually, highlighting their full-time commitment.
• 5: The number of tiers in the Athlete Performance Award (APA) system, determining financial support based on performance.
• £40,000: The approximate upper limit of prize money available to curlers through various competitions.
• 12 months: The duration of training dedication each year, with short breaks during the summer months.
• 2 hours: Average length of each ice training session, crucial for skill development.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Athlete Performance Award (APA): A funding system by UK Sport that supports athletes based on their competitive pedigree.
• Curling: A sport where players slide stones on a sheet of ice towards a target area, requiring precision and teamwork.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the Winter Olympics approach, expect increased media coverage and public interest in curling. Athletes will continue to refine their techniques and strategies while participating in final competitions leading up to the Games.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Post-Olympics, athletes will likely evaluate their performance and discuss future goals. This period may also see shifts in funding and sponsorship opportunities based on Olympic results.

Signals to watch

• Performance in upcoming competitions leading to the Winter Olympics.
• Changes in sponsorship deals and financial support for athletes.
• Public engagement metrics related to curling events and participation rates.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay updated on Team GB's progress and performance in the upcoming Olympics.
• Consider participating in local curling clubs or events to experience the sport firsthand.
• Support athletes through sponsorships or attending live events.

Don’t

• Underestimate the dedication required to compete at the Olympic level in curling.
• Ignore the broader implications of Olympic success for funding and support of winter sports.
• Dismiss the importance of physical conditioning and mental preparation in curling.

Checklist

• Research local curling clubs and facilities for participation opportunities.
• Follow Team GB's journey through the Olympics for insights and updates.
• Engage with curling content online to understand the sport better.
• Consider ways to support athletes through community initiatives.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the outlook for Team GB's curlers is promising, uncertainties remain regarding their financial sustainability and the long-term support for winter sports in general. Funding fluctuations and the need for sponsorship are ongoing challenges that could impact athletes' careers, especially if their performance does not meet expectations during the Olympics. The sport's visibility often fluctuates, leading to potential dips in participation and funding outside of Olympic cycles.

Bottom line

Team GB's curlers are dedicated, full-time athletes whose commitment to the sport is evident in their rigorous training and strategic preparation for the Winter Olympics. Their journey highlights the need for greater recognition and support for winter sports, especially as they strive for success on the global stage. As interest in curling peaks, it is essential to understand the complexities and challenges faced by these athletes.

FAQs

How often do Team GB curlers train?

Team GB curlers train full-time, dedicating about 44 weeks a year to the sport, including both on-ice sessions and strength and conditioning work.

What is the Athlete Performance Award (APA)?

The APA is a funding system by UK Sport that provides financial support to athletes based on their competitive performance and achievements.

Are curlers financially secure?

While some top curlers may secure sponsorship and prize money, many still face financial challenges, often supplementing their income through other jobs.