You might not realize it, but cats and the 2018 winter Olympics have a lot in common! So much so that the South Korean Olympic Committee chose Soorhorang, a white tiger that represents strength, protection, and trust in the Korean culture. Soorhorang is everywhere, introducing each event, on every mug, t-shirt, and banner. In fact, it is commonly argued that the map of South Korea is shaped like a tiger. The Siberian white tiger is a folk symbol associated with the Korean culture. Given this, it’s no surprise that cats would play a major role in this year’s games.
Olympic Athletes & Their Beloved Cats
Did you know that some of the top athletes at this year’s Olympics are bonafide cat lovers. Mikaela Shiffrin is the proud owner of a tabby cat named Muffin. Unlike Shiffrin, who sticks to a regimented diet and exercise routine, Muffin excels at begging for food and sleeping all day. While Shiffrin is hitting the slopes for Team USA, we’re sure Muffin will be rooting from a cozy perch back home.
Another Team USA feline fan is speed skater Brittany Bowe. A lover of cats her entire life, her first cat was named Gym, due to all the time she spent in the gym as a child. Nowadays, her cats Chloe and Patches follow her around everywhere she goes. Patches and Chloe, a special needs cat due to her deafness, were adopted from Bowe’s local shelter in Florida. Bowe has plans to adopt a third addition to her feline family upon her return to Salt Lake City.
Cat Fans Rule
While most of us are cheering from our comfortable couches, the 2018 Winter Olympic games include the fandom of our furry family members. While you watched, glass of merlot in hand, as Shaun White scored his third gold medal in the men’s half pipe, this cat instantly became his biggest fan. In fact, cats all over the world are reveling in the feats of ice skaters, snowboarders, and even hockey. Though they may block your view of the games, the feline entertainment might be well worth it.
Cat Curling Takes Center Stage
The phenomenon of curling has been placed front and center at this year’s Olympic games. With Team USA winning its first ever Olympic gold in the men’s curling competition, fans everywhere are focusing on the unique sport like never before. Some are even holding cat curling competitions of their own, right from the comfort of their living rooms. Some very willing kitties curl into a ball and are slid from one corner of the living room to the other. However, before signing your furry baby up for curling lessons, be sure they’re willing and able. Docile is key when it comes to cat curling. As you and your kitty enjoy the rest of this year’s winter Olympics, take the time to remember what the feline represents to the games: strength, protection, and trust.
