https://www.yahoo.com/sports/articles/canada-sweden-cheating-controversy-explained-050807286.html
Curling is a strategic winter team sport played on ice where two teams of four take turns sliding 40-pound granite stones toward a target called the "house". Players use brooms to sweep the ice, reducing friction to control the stone's speed and direction. The objective is to have the closest stone(s) to the center, scoring points over 8–10 "ends" (rounds). [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8]
Key Aspects of Curling
- The Objective: Score points by placing stones closer to the center of the house (the "button") than the opponent after all 16 stones (8 per team) are thrown.
- The "End": Similar to an inning in baseball, a game consists of 8 to 10 ends.
- Scoring: Only one team scores per end, earning one point for each stone closer to the center than the opponent's best stone.
- Sweeping: Two sweepers brush the ice ahead of the moving stone to melt the ice slightly, which reduces friction, making the stone travel straighter and farther.
- The "Curl" & Strategy: A slight spin is put on the stone, causing it to curve or "curl". Teams use strategic shots like "guards" to protect their stones or "takeouts" to remove opponent stones.
- Positions: Teams consist of a Lead, Second, Third (or Vice-Skip), and Skip, with the Skip directing strategy from the house.
- The "Hammer": The last stone of an end, which is a significant strategic advantage. [1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12]
Ever wonder how expensive the stones are?
Curling stones typically cost around $600 to over $700 each for new, high-quality models, with a full set of 16 stones costing between $7,000 and $12,000. The high price is driven by the use of specialized granite from Ailsa Craig, Scotland, and the intense manufacturing process by Kays of Scotland, the sole supplier for the Olympics. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Key details regarding the cost of curling stones include:
- Manufacturing & Materials: Authentic, competition-ready stones are made from specific granite, such as Ailsa Craig common green or blue hone, which provides durability and the correct, consistent performance on the ice.
- Set Cost: A full set of 16 stones—required for a standard game—often ranges from $7,000 to $12,000.
- Club/Used Stones: Less expensive, refurbished, or used club stones can be found for between $125 and $250 per stone.
- Lifespan: Stones are highly durable, often lasting 50 to 70 years.
- Other Options: LiteRock junior stones are available for around $4,800 per set, while smaller, decorative, or, non-granite options can cost significantly less, such as $129. [1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8]
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