Curling and the long tail.

In case you've missed it, curling has become the talk of this winter's Olympic Games. Since it's my favorite sport, I'm understandably thrilled about it.

I also think something interesting is happening here from a marketing perspective. None of the efforts to create buzz for the sport were directed by a single entity — it's been the many tentacles of the game's organizations, players and media pros. It hasn't been dropped down from above. Instead, it's been more like a steady, determined ooze.

People are watching the sport and finding it interesting. Indeed, I think the fact that curlers are real, normal human beings — no Shaquille O'Neal giants, no Bode Miller attitude — is adding to its appeal.

If the sport is finally gaining a bit of traction — God, I hope so — it's proof that there are no single magic bullets when you're trying to capture attention. Keep slugging away on as many levels as possible.

Of course, I do like to think that this incredible sports podcast might have helped as well.