In 2017, thanks to my dad, I was able to experience the finals of the Olympics qualifiers, Alberta (Koe) vs. Manitoba (McEwen), in Ottawa. I was a student, at the time, with an exam the next day and I had brought with me flashcards to study throughout the game. No studying was done as my eyes were fixed on the ice for the entirety of this game. What a game this was as it all came down to the very last rock… 6-6 in the 10th end, Alberta with the hammer. I was and still am a huge fan of Benny Hebert, Brent Laing, Marc Kennedy and of course, Kevin Koe. Anyways, it’s time for Koe’s final shot. He needs to make a draw on the button (and get at least to the 4-foot). I am on the edge of my seat, my palms are sweaty and my heart is racing as I want nothing more than to see Koe at the 2018 winter Olympics. As soon as Koe let’s go of the final rock, my dad and I look at each other and say “dang, it’s light”. The legend herself, Jennifer Jones was sitting behind me and I hear her say right away “hard Brent”. My dad and I stand up from our seats and start yelling “hard” at the top of our lungs. I have never seen Benny and Brent sweep so hard. I did not think the shot was there… but somehow the shot made it in the 4-foot and THEY WON THE GAME. Tears start falling down my face, chills all over my body. This is a moment I will remember for the rest of my life and I wish I could live it all over again. I find myself going on youtube every now and then and type 2017 Tim Hortons ROTR – McEwen vs Koe – Mens final. I fast forward to 2:36:26 and watch this final shot over and over again. Anyways, this is my favourite curling moment and my curling story. Now I must let you go as I am going on youtube to watch this shot again!
Véronique
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