Prince William and Kate Middleton, also known as the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay in Scotland, displayed their prowess in a curling match at the National Curling Academy in Stirling. The royal couple visited the academy to offer their support and good wishes to Team GB and Paralympics GB Curling teams ahead of the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milano-Cortina.
Curling, a sport with origins dating back to the 16th century, involves sliding stones across the ice towards a target area. It stands out as one of Team GB and Paralympics GB’s most successful winter sports, having garnered six Olympic medals and two Paralympic medals so far.
During their visit, Prince William and Kate received a brief tutorial on stone throwing techniques before engaging in a friendly competition. The royal couple learned firsthand the challenges of mastering the sport. Kate emerged victorious in the contest between the two.
Guided by skips Bruce Mouat and Jennifer Dodds, William and Kate were introduced to the basics of curling, including pushing off from the rubber hack and using the delivery stick to propel themselves across the ice. Despite initial hesitations and minor mishaps, the couple eventually found their footing on the ice.
Following some practice rounds, William and Kate, aided by sweepers, competed to get closest to the target button at the center of the house. The friendly match showcased the couple’s enthusiasm and determination to excel in the sport.
The visit to the National Curling Academy offered the royal couple a glimpse into the world of Team GB and Paralympics GB players, where they interacted with athletes and learned about the intricacies of the game. The athletes shared their experiences and aspirations with the royal visitors, highlighting the dedication and passion within the curling community.
Overall, the royal couple’s visit to the Curling Academy was a memorable and engaging experience for both the athletes and the royals, underscoring the importance of promoting and supporting winter sports at the highest level.
