【Curling】Black Label Cup 2026: SC Karuizawa Club Stages Stunning Comeback for Inaugural Victory! Behind the Scenes of a Thriller That Left the Canadian Pair Astounded
It felt like watching a drama unfold on ice. The "Curling Black Label Cup 2026" came to a close on March 18th in Karuizawa, Nagano. In the final showdown on the last day, SC Karuizawa Club pulled off a last-moment comeback against Chubu Zaisankyoku, clinching a spectacular first-ever victory. It was a moment that brought spectators packing the venue, and curling fans watching the live stream across the nation, to their feet in unison.
Like Chess on Ice, A Comeback in the Final End
The final I witnessed on-site was a nail-biting affair. SC Karuizawa Club found themselves in a tough spot, trailing until the middle of the game. But they never panicked. Skip Yusuke Morozumi calmly held the team together, and they finally managed a successful comeback in the final end. Overcoming the immense pressure of the last stone, they snatched victory with a brilliant double takeout. It was touching to see a visibly emotional Morozumi say after the match, "The support from the local crowd cheering us on gave us strength."
A World-Class Stage Featuring a Canadian Team
Another major highlight of this tournament was the participation of a strong pair invited from Curling Canada. This young Canadian team, finalists in last year's World Championship, showcased incredible shot precision right from the qualifiers, captivating Japanese fans. Although they lost to Karuizawa in the semi-finals, their gameplay undoubtedly served as a major inspiration for the Japanese athletes. After the match, players from both teams were seen acknowledging each other's efforts, highlighting a friendship that transcends the ice.
A New Chapter in Curling and Craft Beer
The Black Label Cup is actually more than just a competition. The Black Label, which lends its name to the tournament, is a special beer born from a collaboration with a local craft brewery in Karuizawa. A "Curling Brewery" corner was set up at the venue, and it was heartening to see fans chatting over craft beers after watching the games. It seems to have firmly established itself as the perfect way to unwind after the intense on-ice battles.
- SC Karuizawa Club's First Title – A comeback victory achieved on home ice.
- Canadian Pair Participates – Crowds thrilled by world-class shots.
- Special Brew from Karuizawa Brewery – Tournament-exclusive beer proves a hit.
- Record-Breaking Attendance – Stands packed to capacity every day.
- Glimpse of Future Stars – Young players shine with impressive performances.
Towards the Next Battle: The Future of Japanese Curling
SC Karuizawa Club, buoyed by the momentum from this tournament, has gained significant steam heading into next month's Japanese Championships. Watching them play, you feel not just their technical skill, but also a spirit of "enjoying the game" everywhere. While intense mind games unfold on the ice, players are all smiles after the match, congratulating each other on their efforts. This is likely why Japanese curling is so loved internationally. There are rumours that even more top teams from various countries will participate next year. It seems we can look forward to more new dramas unfolding on the ice in Karuizawa.