Brad Gushue Makes History with Sixth Brier Title, Defeating Saskatchewan’s Mike McEwen in Thrilling Final
In the world of Canadian curling, few names resonate as powerfully as Brad Gushue, and the Newfoundland and Labrador native added yet another monumental achievement to his already storied career by claiming his sixth Brier title at the 2024 Tim Hortons Brier in Calgary. The victory came at the expense of Saskatchewan’s Mike McEwen, who, despite a valiant effort, was unable to unseat the seasoned Gushue in what turned out to be a captivating final.
Gushue’s journey to his sixth national championship was nothing short of remarkable. From the early days of his career, when he captured the nation’s attention with a gold medal performance at the 2006 Winter Olympics, Gushue has solidified his reputation as one of the sport’s most consistent and successful athletes. His ability to perform under pressure, particularly at the Brier, where the stakes are as high as they get in the curling world, is unparalleled.
This victory, in particular, holds a special significance for Gushue. Each Brier championship he has claimed is a testament not only to his skill on the ice but also to his longevity and ability to adapt to the ever-evolving sport. From his early triumphs in 2001 to his recent successes, Gushue has continued to dominate Canadian curling, proving that age is no obstacle to excellence. With the 2024 Brier title, he joined a select group of curlers who have won the prestigious championship six times, etching his name even further into the annals of curling history.
On the other hand, McEwen’s appearance in the final marked a significant achievement in its own right. Known for his precise shot-making and strategic acumen, McEwen has long been regarded as one of the most talented curlers to never win a Brier. The Saskatchewan skip has been a consistent presence on the national scene, with multiple provincial championships and a reputation for being one of the most formidable competitors in the sport. McEwen’s run to the final, which featured impressive performances throughout the round-robin and playoffs, raised expectations that he could finally capture his first Brier title.
The final itself, played in front of a passionate crowd in Calgary, was a showcase of high-level curling. The game was a tightly contested battle, with both teams exchanging blows and trading leads. The first few ends set the tone, with Gushue and his team—comprised of third Mark Nichols, second Brett Gallant, and lead Geoff Walker—showing why they have been so dominant in recent years. Gushue’s calm demeanor and precise shot-making were on full display, as he consistently found ways to score despite the intense pressure from McEwen’s squad, which included third Matt Dunstone, second Kirk Muyres, and lead Dustin Kidby.
Early on, it seemed as though McEwen’s team might have the upper hand, as they managed to keep the game close and capitalize on a few Gushue mistakes. But as is often the case with champions, Gushue’s team found a way to regain control. His unshakable focus and leadership, combined with his teammates’ sharp execution, allowed the Newfoundland and Labrador team to claw back into the match. With every passing end, Gushue’s ability to make key shots under pressure came into sharper focus, and it became clear that the defending champion would not easily relinquish his title.
One of the defining moments of the final came in the sixth end, when Gushue made a spectacular double takeout to score a critical three points. The shot was an absolute beauty, demonstrating Gushue’s immense skill and mental fortitude. It was this moment that truly shifted the momentum in his favor, as McEwen and his team found themselves unable to respond with a similar level of precision. The shot not only gave Gushue a commanding lead but also symbolized his ability to perform when the game is on the line.
As the final few ends unfolded, the pressure mounted. McEwen’s team pushed hard to make a comeback, but the Gushue team’s experience and composure in crucial moments proved to be the deciding factor. Despite some late-game drama, Gushue held firm, executing key shots and controlling the ice to eventually seal the victory with a final score of 7-5. The win cemented Gushue’s legacy as one of the greatest curlers in Canadian history.
For Gushue, this victory was not just about the physical act of throwing curling stones. It was a culmination of years of dedication, teamwork, and a deep love for the sport. Curling is a game that requires both mental and physical prowess, and Gushue’s ability to balance those elements has been a hallmark of his career. His unflappable nature on the ice, his focus during critical moments, and his ability to stay calm when the game is on the line have made him a revered figure in the curling world.
This Brier win also marks a new chapter in Gushue’s career, as he continues to push forward in his quest to further solidify his place among the sport’s all-time greats. At 43 years old, he has shown no signs of slowing down, and his continued success in the Brier proves that age is no barrier to elite-level performance. Gushue’s commitment to the game, his love for the sport, and his unwavering desire to compete at the highest level are what drive him to continue winning. For him, each Brier victory is not just a reflection of his talent but a reminder of the sacrifices and the hard work that have gone into achieving such success.
For McEwen, while the loss in the final was undoubtedly disappointing, it was also a sign of just how far he and his team have come. The Saskatchewan skip has been a staple in the curling world for many years, and his ability to reach the final after a series of strong performances in the lead-up to the event speaks to his skill and determination. Although he fell short in this particular final, McEwen’s career is far from over, and his time may yet come.
The 2024 Brier will undoubtedly be remembered as another chapter in the ongoing saga of Brad Gushue’s illustrious curling career. His victory over Mike McEwen will go down in history as one of the most significant moments of the season, adding to the legacy of a player who has consistently set the standard for excellence in the sport of curling. As Gushue stands atop the podium once again, it’s clear that his place in the history books is firmly secured, and his influence on the game will continue to be felt for years to come.
In the end, the 2024 Tim Hortons Brier was not just a showcase of curling talent but a celebration of what makes the sport so special: the camaraderie, the mental toughness, and the pure joy of competition. For Brad Gushue, the journey continues, and with his sixth Brier title now in hand, there’s no telling just how much more he has to give to the sport that has been his passio
n for nearly two decades.
