As perfect in the gold medal match as he had been all through the Games, Kevin Martin and his Canadian rink struck gold. Another rousing rendition of "O Canada" inspired the Old Bear to defeat Norway 6-3 in a shortened nine-end match.

In an astonishing finish, Sweden's Anette Norberg stole the gold medal out of Canada's hands. Cheryl Bernard played a perfect tournament until the final two ends in the gold medal game, so Canada's women settle for curling silver.

U.S. curling captain John Shuster stuck out his tongue in the middle of a match and uttered for all to hear on television at home, "I hate this stupid game." His exasperation was understandable, as both American rinks underperformed.

Curling already has a huge following in Canada, with its electric crowd atmosphere at the Olympics eclipsed only by fans at hockey. Enthusiasts now are hoping the sport's exposure in Vancouver has sparked interest in the U.S. and around the world.

While most Americans think the sport of curling only happens once every four winters, up in Canada, it happens every day. What is it about Canadians and curling? Why do these folks have the same rock star status as hockey players?