The United States won both their games on the opening day of the World Curling Olympic Qualification ©WCF/Steve Seixeiro

The United States and South Korea made unbeaten starts to their mixed doubles campaigns at the World Curling Federation Olympic Qualification Event in Leeuwarden in The Netherlands today.

In the morning session, the US defeated Japan 8-6, before returning in the afternoon to beat Estonia 11-6.

"That was really important," Chris Plys said after the victory over Japan. 

"We knew Japan was going to be tough. 

"They’re all important wins."

His partner Vicky Persinger added: "It was important to score in the power play. 

"We wanted to make sure we put some points on the board, so we’re happy with that."

South Korea overcame New Zealand 7-3 and Finland 10-4 to join the US at the top of Group B.

Korea coach Wade Scoffin said after the victory over New Zealand: "That win is great, and we also had a very good last stone draw. 

"In these competitions, that’s such a determining factor as well."

In the other Group B games, Finland defeated Latvia 8-3 and Japan beat Latvia 8-2.

The Russian Curling Federation also made a strong start to Olympic qualification in the mixed doubles ©WCF/Steve Seixeiro
The Russian Curling Federation also made a strong start to Olympic qualification in the mixed doubles ©WCF/Steve Seixeiro

The Russian Curling Federation also came away from the first day of action with two victories to top Group A, beating Spain 9-2 and Hungary 9-3.

Denmark split their two matches of the day, beating Turkey 8-7 before losing to Germany 8-7, who were previously dispatched 8-2 by Hungary.

Australia had to wait until the final session to get their campaign underway, beating Turkey 7-3.

Competition continues tomorrow with more mixed doubles round-robin matches.