Two Duluth radio DJs, inspired by the 2026 Winter Olympics, attempted curling at the Duluth Curling Club, resulting in a comical rookie experience. Invited by club member Ray Lopez and his daughter, they received a one-hour lesson on the same ice used by Team USA Olympic curlers. The session highlighted the sport's accessibility for all skill levels.
The 2026 Winter Olympics, recently concluded, featured strong representation from Minnesota in sports like curling and hockey, motivating locals to try the activities. As discussed on their radio show, hosts from B105 Country, including the narrator who had prior college experience with curling and co-host Tony, a novice with a history of ice-related mishaps, accepted an invitation to a beginner lesson at the Duluth Curling Club.
The club, home to some Team USA Olympic curlers, provided instruction on fundamentals during the hour-long session. Key lessons included avoiding slips on the slide, gauging the 'weight' or strength of throws, the physical demands of sweeping, and not lifting the stone during delivery— a mistake Tony made. The group also experimented with a stick delivery method, demonstrating curling's adaptability for various abilities.
Despite their struggles, the DJs emphasized the sport's welcoming nature. 'The game welcomes people of all ages and skill levels to play,' the narrator noted, adding that many clubs, including Duluth's, offer bars and casual leagues. No competitive outcomes were achieved, but the experience underscored curling's approachable appeal, especially post-Olympics. The club runs 'Learn to Curl' events to introduce newcomers, fostering fun over immediate proficiency.
