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The Czech expedition arrived in Esbjerg.

The women - Kubeskova, Pliskova, Svatonova, Baudysova and Kolchevska - are in Esbjerg to try to return Group A to the Czech Republic at the European Curling Championships. The task, which many Czech curlers feel is almost obviously achievable, hides many tricky things. World and therefore European curling has come a long way forward again and the broad group of countries between the absolute top and the bottom has improved and expanded. We do not play ten-end matches in our domestic competition, nor do we play according to the current world rules in force. The Extraliga does not have good timing and is not optimal preparation for CCT, WCT or European Championship or World Championship tournaments, not to mention the Olympic Games. All this does not change the fact that we are doing our best to face all competitors. We need well-being, health, a bit of luck and fighting spirit. If we get it right, we will reach the semi-finals. But the playoffs are always tricky, and we're not there yet. We have nine games, played from Friday to Wednesday, in which we have to confirm that we are at the absolute top of Europe. Keep your fingers crossed. The Czech men are going to a competition we have known well for several years, namely the European Championship Group A. Although we have struggled a few times in the past, we have managed to hold on to the A group and thus an easier path to the World Championships and thus to the points for the Olympic Games. It doesn't matter that it's a different team this year. It's still Czech curling defending its good position at the end of the absolute European top class. The first game is on Saturday at 9,00 against Sweden. It's raining in Esbjerg, strong winds. It is generally inclement. The accommodation is good. The halls are just over a kilometre away. We'll know more about the ice tomorrow after practice.