From a two sheeter to Olympic gold

In this archived episode (#36) of the Curling Legends Podcast, Olympic and world champion Joan McCusker of the famed Sandra Schmirler team spoke with host Kevin Palmer during the women’s final of the 2017 Canadian Olympic Trials. 

If you listen closely, you can hear some muffled crowd noise—and both Kevin and Joan occasionally discuss the drama they’re seeing unfold on the ice surface below them.

Original show description:

Joan McCusker takes humour seriously.

The 1998 gold medal-winning Schmirler team almost never happened, because Joan and Marcia Gudereit were concerned that Jan Betker and Sandra were too intense. Eventually they agreed and everything clicked. Their team had balance, with Joan providing levity when it was needed most.

Joan shares stories from her time growing up on the farm and learning to curl at a two-sheeter. We cover her university days, playing with sister Cathy and the early Scotties and Olympic experiences.

Joan also reveals the team’s emotional turmoil the morning of the finals of the 1997 Olympic Trials, and shares a few road stories as well.

Colourful images—and video—have been embedded in the media player to enhance your podcast experience!