A good sport to do during winter?

Physics question about winter sport curling?

• In my high school physics class, we have been asked to create a presentation about the physics behind a winter olympic sport. My group recieved curling as our sport. I would greatly appreciate it if I could get just a basic overview and ideas. I would appreciate it even more if i could get information specifically on; the equipmet used, why certain players are more qualified (both from a physics point of view), and the basic physics behind it. Info on actual players is great too (example. the arm radius of a certain player and why that helps). Thanks!

• Answer:

  You best bet is to look at the US Curling Association website (curlingrocks.net). There you can get the basic information regarding the stones, and dimensions of the sheet. You can also read about how the ice is pebbled (which affects the stone's performance), sweeping, strategy, etc. Why certain players are more qualified than others really has nothing to do with physics. They study strategy and spend hours practicing technique. Arm radius also has nothing to do with the sport, because the curlers are not flinging the stone down the ice.