Italy has found itself crazy about curling thanks to the exploits of Stefania Constantini and Amos Mosaner, new champions in the mixed doubles at the Beijing 2022 Games
On the ice, they have been a couple for just ten months. And in such a short time they have risen to the top of the world, after a clear path made up of eleven victories in as many games.
At 22, Constantini is the only Azzura in her discipline present in China (the women’s team did not qualify). At 26, Mosaner is ready to lead his colleagues in the men’s tournament starting on Wednesday. Both come from places where curling is a way of life, Cortina and Cembra.
Together, they form a perfect duo and have just rewritten the history of Italian sport. “There is a good balance in the team, we are calm,” says Constantini. “We concentrate to give our best. I think arguing is just a waste of energ.”
“Everyone does their part,” adds Constantini.
Mosaner, a lover of cycling and sports in general, from soccer to beach volleyball, is part of the Air Force group and will still have to wait a bit before returning to Italy and hugging family, girlfriend and loved ones, including his dog ‘Bloom’.
Constantini, on the other hand, will leave Beijing earlier, on 11 February, to return to Cortina – which will host the next edition of the Winter Olympics in tandem with Milan – and celebrate with friends, family and boyfriend, who is also a sportsman (hockey player in Serie TO). After the big screen in the square and the party bells, the Pearl of the Dolomites is ready to warmly welcome the new darling.
In the meantime, she will be able to devote herself to curling full-time: before the Games, Stefania worked in a clothing store. Now – after having passed the Fiamme Oro ban – she will be able to devote herself to stones and brooms full time. With an extra Olympic medal around her neck. — Alberto Zanello/LaPresse
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