Team Jones makes Olympic history, Brits await in Sochi curling semifinal
SOCHI, Russia – Canadian women made Olympic history in Sochi on Monday night when they beat South Korea 9-4.
It marked the first time a women’s curling team completed the Olympic round robin portion undefeated. Team Jennifer Jones will go into the playoffs with a perfect 9-0 record.
Always humble, skip Jennifer Jones reminded reporters that their success is not an indictment on the quality of opposition at the Olympic Winter Games in Sochi.
“It feels unbelievable, Jones said. “In my opinion this is one of the toughest fields that has ever been assembled for women’s curling. To go through undefeated, and to go into the Olympic record books, is pretty awesome.”
Heading into the final game – having already clinched first place – Jones said the goal was to have an enjoyable experience before the spotlight shines brighter in the upcoming semifinals. That’s exactly what the team comprised of Kaitlyn Lawes, Jill Officer, Dawn McEwen managed to do.
“We were having fun, we wanted to make sure we enjoyed it. We’ve waited a whole life to get here and this is a moment we will never forget.”
While they go into the semifinals on top, success sets up a tricky rematch for the Jones rink against Eve Muirhead’s team, the reigning world champion, representing Great Britain. Canada beat the Scottish curlers 9-6 in round robin play and will need a repeat to guarantee a medal.
Sweden and Switzerland will play in the other semifinal, both games take place simultaneously on February 19 at 5 a.m. ET.
All photos via The Canadian Press.
