Robert LaBonte

Robert "Bob" LaBonte (born c. 1950) is an American curler, a 1972 World Men's silver medallist[1] and a 1972 United States men's curling champion. He currently lives in Minot, North Dakota and is employed as a stock broker.[2]

Robert LaBonte
Curler  ♂
Team
Curling club	Grafton CC, Grafton, ND
Career
Member Association	United States
World Championship appearances	1 (1972)
Medal record Curling World Championships 1972 Garmisch-Partenkirchen United States Men's Championship 1972 Wilmette

He is best known for the "Curse of LaBonte" - one of the most famous curses in curling history. It was caused by an incident at the finals against Canada at the 1972 world men's curling championship, the 1972 Air Canada Silver Broom in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany.[3] After the last shot of the 10th end came to rest, it appeared as though they had won, and LaBonte leaped in the air to celebrate, but upon his descent he burned (touched) a Canadian stone. The stone was replaced and was found to be closer, giving Canada the point and forcing the game to an extra end, where Canada scored again, winning the match. Canada did not win another World Championship until 1980, and were said to have been "cursed".

Personal life

LaBonte attended the University of North Dakota.[4]

Teams

Season	Skip	Third	Second	Lead	Events
1971–72	Robert LaBonte	Frank Aasand	John Aasand	Ray Morgan	USMCC 1972 WCC 1972

References

1. Robert LaBonte on the World Curling Federation database
2. https://www.si.com/vault/2004/01/19/358966/broom-at-the-top-baby-its-cold-outside-so-north-dakotans-like-to-curl-up-with-a-good-curling-tournament
3. The Curling News - Labonte Curse on YouTube
4. https://www.grandforksherald.com/news/2071671-72-grafton-curling-teams-lost-victory-still-shapes-lives-its-members