Brier Scores Today: Brad Gushue’s Final Curl and Legacy

A Fond Farewell: Brad Gushue’s Last Brier

ST. JOHN’S – Brad Gushue concluded his final Canadian men’s curling championship without the storybook ending he envisioned, yet he departs as a true folk hero of the sport. The 45-year-old from St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, had hoped to secure a record seventh Brier title, mirroring his first victory in his hometown back in 2017. However, his team was defeated by reigning Olympic champion Brad Jacobs in a closely contested 7-5 playoff loss on Saturday.

Every game featuring Gushue’s team in St. John’s drew massive crowds, requiring ice technicians to adjust for the fluctuating temperatures caused by the enthusiastic fans. The city’s adoration for their native son reached a fever pitch as Gushue took to the ice for what would be his last Brier appearance.

A Career Defined by Excellence

“I’m thankful for the incredible appreciation and love I received,” Gushue shared. “That’s a memory I’ll cherish forever. The disappointment of the loss is still present, but to witness such overwhelming support… it’s indescribable. I feel incredibly fortunate.”

Gushue’s career boasts an impressive array of achievements: Olympic gold in 2006, Olympic bronze in 2022, a world championship in 2017, six Brier championships, four world championship silver medals, and an astounding 15 Grand Slam victories. Achieving this level of success from a province not traditionally known as a curling powerhouse is a testament to his dedication and skill.

Overcoming Obstacles from Newfoundland and Labrador

St. John’s’ geographical isolation – closer to London, England, than Edmonton – presented significant financial and logistical challenges for a contending team. The concentration of tour events in Ontario and the prairie provinces added to the burden.

“Brad never used his province of origin as an excuse,” said Mark Nichols, Gushue’s teammate of 26 years. “He didn’t dwell on the cost or the travel. He changed the perception of curling in Newfoundland and Labrador, and arguably, across the entire country.”

A Partnership for the Ages

Nichols, from Labrador City, has been instrumental to Gushue’s success, consistently delivering crucial shots. “We’ve shared an incredible journey,” Nichols reflected. “We pushed each other to constantly improve, and I’m going to miss it dearly.”

Gushue and Nichols first gained national recognition as fresh-faced 20-somethings in 2006, securing Canada’s first Olympic gold medal in men’s curling alongside Russ Howard and Jamie Korab in Turin, Italy.

The 2017 Brier: A Turning Point

Gushue’s defining moment came with his first Brier victory in 2017, after 13 attempts, on home soil in St. John’s. This triumph propelled him and his team to new heights, leading to a world championship that same year, three more Canadian titles, an Olympic bronze medal, and a pair of world championship silver medals.

The departure of Brett Gallant in 2022 and the arrival of E.J. Harnden didn’t slow the team down, as they secured back-to-back Brier wins in 2022 and 2023, along with another two world championship silver medals.

A Legacy of Records

Gushue holds numerous Brier records, including most appearances (23), playoff appearances (17), playoff wins (21), playoff games (39), career wins (198), and career games played (279).

What’s Next for a Curling Icon?

“The Brier is what I’m going to miss the most,” Gushue admitted. While he’s retired from competitive men’s curling, he remains open to playing mixed doubles with his daughters, should they desire. “Whether that’s at a competitive level remains to be seen, but we’ll see,” he said. His daughter Hayley’s team recently reached the final of the provincial women’s championship.

Despite his popularity, Gushue has no plans to enter politics. “I don’t think so,” he stated. “My approval rating is high now, but I know it would drop as soon as I entered politics. I’m not sure my ego could handle that.”