After taking a break from competing at the Winter Games, Canadian curler Brett Gallant has transitioned from mixed doubles to men’s team play. Gallant, who made history as the first Canadian to participate in both events at the same Games, did not advance to the playoffs with his partner Jocelyn Peterman, finishing with a 4-5 record.
Rejoining the Calgary-based team led by skip Brad Jacobs, Gallant expressed gratitude for the fresh start. The Canadian men’s team, including Jacobs, Marc Kennedy, Ben Hebert, and alternate Tyler Tardi, practiced ahead of their upcoming match against Germany’s Marc Muskatewitz.
The women’s team, skipped by Rachel Homan, also held a training session in preparation for their opening game against Denmark’s Madeleine Dupont. Both Canadian teams were anticipated to be strong contenders in their respective events.
In the men’s competition, defending champion Niklas Edin from Sweden and top-ranked Bruce Mouat of Great Britain were among the favorites. The women’s draw featured a competitive field with experienced teams such as Sweden’s Anna Hasselborg and Switzerland’s Silvana Tirinzoni.
Canadian teams have a strong history in curling, with the women’s team coached by Heather Nedohin aiming for a podium finish. While facing disappointment in the mixed doubles event, Gallant expressed excitement to compete in the team competition and is focused on improving each day.
The Olympic curling tournament will continue until February 22, the final day of the Games, with high expectations for both Canadian teams.