Prince William and Princess Kate recently visited Scotland’s National Curling Academy in Stirling, where they received curling lessons from Team GB athletes Jen Dodds and Bruce Mouat. The royals attempted the sport ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics, showing nerves but impressive form. This encounter highlights the building excitement for Great Britain's curling squad in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo.
The visit took place at the National Curling Academy in Stirling, Scotland, where Jen Dodds and Bruce Mouat, key members of Team GB's curling team, instructed the Prince and Princess of Wales. Dodds, who was part of the women's team that won gold at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics—the first British women's curling gold in two decades—shared her experiences. Mouat, who secured silver with the men's team in Beijing, described the moment as memorable.
Bruce Mouat admitted to feeling "starstruck" during the session. "It was special to have them shake hands with us and wish us good luck," he said. Both curlers noted that the royals were "a wee bit nervous" but performed admirably on the ice.
This outing comes as anticipation grows for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, with curling events scheduled from February 6 to 22. Dodds will compete in the women's team event, while Mouat serves as skipper for the men's team. The pair also partners in mixed doubles, a collaboration that began in 2019, built on a long-standing friendship and family-rooted passion for the sport.
Dodds recalled starting curling young, eager to join from day one, while Mouat shared similar childhood stories. After narrowly missing a medal in mixed doubles at Beijing, they are determined to succeed. "We’re hoping to finish what we started last time," Mouat stated. For Dodds, another medal could make her the most decorated British Winter Olympian. "I’d love to get a medal—two would be fantastic!" she added.
Team GB's past triumphs in Beijing fuel hopes for a repeat, with the sport's unpredictability adding to the thrill for fans.
