Get ready for a thrilling journey into the world of curling! The Brier, a championship like no other, has landed in St. John's, NL, and it's an experience that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
This remote corner of North America has embraced the Brier with open arms, creating an atmosphere that's simply unforgettable. But here's where it gets controversial: should we host it here every year? Or perhaps every other year would suffice?
Let's dive into the top ten moments from Tuesday's Tankard, where we'll uncover the stories behind the stones and the people who make this event so special.
A Diverse Crowd: While locals dominate the attendance, the 2026 Montana's Brier has attracted visitors from far and wide. Take Karrie Gottschild and her husband Wilson, who made the journey from Chicago to St. John's. Their connection to the sport? They're teammates of Scott Arnold, a curling legend in his own right. And did you know the Chicago Curling Club has a secret? It's a drinking club with a curling problem!
Rookie Sensation: Meet Jayden King, the first black skip to grace the Brier. He's not just making history; he's also making an impact. At 23, King embodies the joy and dedication of a true curler, and his performance against Brad Gushue was nothing short of impressive. But here's the part most people miss: Jayden's not just a talented curler; he's also a philanthropist, directing his fundraising efforts towards worthy causes.
Gushue's Fans, Young's Triumph: While some fans headed to the Patch to celebrate Gushue's win, they missed a dramatic victory by Nathan Young and his team. Young, a Brier veteran, pulled off an incredible triple takeout, securing a win against Tyler Smith and his team from Prince Edward Island. It's a moment that will go down in Brier history.
The Shot of the Week: Sandy MacEwan, fourth for Northern Ontario, delivered a shot so spectacular it will be tough to beat on the 2026 Brier highlight reel. He essentially made a quadruple takeout, promoting the Koe stone and sending the game into overtime. The Northwest Territories prevailed, but Sandy's shot is a testament to the skill and strategy of the sport.
Strategy and the Hammer: In a game between veterans, McEwen demonstrated how retaining the hammer with a blank adds an extra layer of strategy. Alberta's Kevin Koe was left with a choice, and it was a delicate decision that could have gone either way.
Ear Protection, Bison or Buffalo?: The chilly winds on Monday served as a reminder to always be prepared. Brendan Bilawka's mom, Cheryl, sported a beautifully knitted toque, sparking a discussion about bison vs. buffalo. It's a fun fact that both are part of the bovidae family, but they're not closely related. And did you know the NFL team in Buffalo is named after the famous frontiersman, Buffalo Bill?
Merchandise and Puffins: The Brier merchandise emporium offers a unique selection, including puffin-themed designs and a special edition Brad Gushue figurine. It's a reminder that sometimes a picture speaks a thousand words, and other times, it leaves you speechless.
Curling-Themed Window Displays: Shops in St. John's have embraced the curling theme, and the handcrafted knit shop on Water St. takes the cake. Run by the Newfoundland Outport Nursing and Industrial Association (NONIA), it features artifacts provided by 1976 Brier champion Ken Templeton. It's a true showcase of local talent and history.
The Right Honourable No. 2: Meet Gary Maddigan, the St. John's Brier Director of Access and Accreditation. His title might sound fancy, but his role is crucial in maintaining order within the facility. Gary has an interesting backstory, having held a similar position at the 2017 Brier. He shared the secret behind the event's success: large bins filled with ice and beer, purchased with Brier tokens. It's a strategy that might just be the reason behind Curling Canada's switch to a point-of-sale credit card system.
Screeched In: A visit to Newfoundland and Labrador isn't complete without the famous "Screeched In" ceremony, a hazing ritual that dates back over 50 years. The 2026 Brier offers this experience to fans for free, but if the waitlist is full, you can always head to George Street for a unique and prestigious experience.
So, what do you think? Are you ready to embrace the Brier and all its unique traditions? Join the conversation and share your thoughts in the comments! Is there a particular moment that stood out to you? Or perhaps you have a different take on these curling tales. Let's discuss!
