E.J. Harnden discovered his passion for curling while watching his father compete at a local Brier in 1990. Reflecting on that moment, he realized his desire to pursue the sport. This pivotal experience marked the beginning of an illustrious career that saw him clinch an Olympic gold medal and secure three national titles during his tenure as a top front-end player in the sport.
In an announcement made on social media, Harnden revealed that the current season would be his final one in competitive curling. As a devoted husband and father of two, the Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., native expressed his intention to prioritize spending more time with his family moving forward.
Teaming up with Matt Dunstone’s squad based in Winnipeg, Harnden will bid farewell to the sport after the upcoming Grand Slam event and his 17th appearance at the Montana’s Brier in the following months.
Having made his debut at the Brier in 2008 alongside his younger brother Ryan Harnden, the duo, also known as the “Brush Brothers,” showcased their skills under the leadership of father Eric Harnden as skip. The siblings, along with cousin Brad Jacobs as the final rock thrower, achieved a significant milestone at the national level, qualifying for the Page 1-2 playoff game in 2010 before narrowly missing out on a spot in the final.
Acknowledging the physical demands of the sport, Harnden emphasized the importance of fitness and weight training, which played a crucial role in his longevity as a top-tier sweeper. Despite the wear and tear that comes with age, he continued to excel, contributing to a stellar period that culminated in a series of victories, including an Olympic gold medal at the 2014 Sochi Games.
Throughout his career, Harnden demonstrated unmatched competitive spirit and a drive for excellence, as attested by his former teammate Brad Jacobs. Their successful partnership led to Brier titles and world silver medals. Following their separation, Harnden reunited with his brother on Dunstone’s team, which currently leads the Canadian rankings.
As he prepares to conclude his competitive journey, Harnden’s legacy as one of the sport’s greatest sweepers is undisputed. His remarkable career saw numerous highs and lows, culminating in a memorable run at prestigious events like the Brier, Trials, and Canada Cup competitions, where he consistently delivered exceptional performances.