E.J. Harnden Sweeps to Fourth Brier Title in Final Season

E.J. Harnden, a prominent figure in Canadian curling, has secured his fourth national Brier title as he approaches retirement. Competing with Matt Dunstone’s Manitoba rink, Harnden was named tournament MVP after delivering an impressive performance, achieving an 88 percent accuracy rate throughout the competition. This remarkable feat took place in St. John’s, marking a significant milestone in a career that has transformed the sport over the past two decades.

From Humble Beginnings to National Stardom

Harnden’s journey in curling began in his hometown of Sault Ste. Marie, where the sport runs deep in his family. His father, Eric Harnden Sr., is a four-time Brier competitor, and his cousin, Brad Jacobs, also shares a legacy in the sport. Harnden’s competitive aspirations took root early, as he began curling at 14, while his brother, Ryan, started at just nine. In 2008, the brothers played on a team skipped by their father at the Brier, finishing with a 3-8 record.

The following year, they formed a team with Jacobs, which made headlines after losing three consecutive matches to Mike Jakubo at the Northern Ontario provincial finals. This loss, which Harnden expressed through a memorable moment of frustration by throwing his broom, catalyzed a change in their approach to the sport.

Determined to improve, the team focused on enhancing their physical fitness, recognizing the critical role that vigorous sweeping plays in curling. They embraced a rigorous training regimen, akin to that of college football players, which set them apart in a sport traditionally associated with a more relaxed demeanor.

A Legacy of Change

The transformation of the Jacobs rink began in earnest after the 2009 defeat. They won the Northern Ontario provincial title in 2010, marking the first time a team from the region had advanced to the Brier playoffs since 1993, where they earned a bronze medal. Their success continued, culminating in a historic victory in 2013 as they became the first Northern Ontario team to win the Brier since 1985.

Representing Canada at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, the Jacobs team faced early challenges, starting with a 1-2 record. However, they regrouped, winning six consecutive matches, ultimately defeating Great Britain 9-3 to secure the gold medal. Harnden and Ryan’s relentless sweeping was pivotal in their success, a testament to their dedication and hard work.

As the years progressed, Harnden’s journey continued to evolve. After a brief hiatus from the game in 2022, he joined Brad Gushue’s team, contributing to victories at the Brier and world championships in 2023 and 2024. Meanwhile, Ryan connected with Dunstone’s younger Manitoba rink. In an emotional reunion in 2024, the brothers found themselves on the same team once again, marking a significant moment in their careers.

Now, at 42, E.J. Harnden has announced that this season will be his last. With a growing family, including an 11-year-old daughter and an 8-year-old son, he recognizes the importance of balancing his professional and personal life. Reflecting on his career, he expressed, “What a way to go, though.”

On Sunday night, Dunstone’s rink triumphed over Kevin Koe’s Alberta team 6-3 to claim the Brier title. E.J. Harnden’s performance earned him the MVP award, and he shared a heartfelt embrace with Ryan, symbolizing the culmination of their shared journey.

The impact of the Harnden brothers and their team has reshaped the landscape of curling. Today, elite curling teams embrace rigorous training and athletic discipline as standard practice, a legacy that has elevated the sport’s competitive nature.

E.J. Harnden’s journey from throwing a broom in frustration to standing on the Olympic podium exemplifies the dedication required to excel in any sport, serving as an inspiration for both current and future generations of athletes.