Athletes competing in the 2025 Canadian Olympic curling trials in Halifax paused to pay tribute to Colleen Jones and reflect on her lasting impact. The renowned curling champion and journalist from Halifax passed away at 65 after bravely battling cancer.
Brad Gushue, the 2006 Olympic gold medallist, fondly recalled how Jones had been a guiding light in his early curling career. Gushue shared that hearing about Jones’s passing after a game on Tuesday deeply saddened him, emphasizing the inspiration she had been to many, especially in Atlantic Canada and beyond.
Describing Jones as an inspiration and a dominant force in women’s curling, Gushue highlighted her six Canadian championships and her significant influence on the sport. He emphasized how her proximity to his home had motivated him to excel.
Kevin Koe, a respected four-time Canadian and two-time world champion from Calgary, remembered Jones as a remarkable individual and athlete. He praised her for representing Canada with pride and excellence, noting the widespread respect and admiration she garnered.
Brad Jacobs, the 2014 Olympic gold medallist, characterized Jones as a legendary figure in curling. Recalling their recent encounter in Nashville, Jacobs admired Jones’s fierce competitiveness and unique playing style, which left a lasting impression on him.
Reflecting on Jones’s legacy, Kim Kelly, a member of Jones’s world championship team, highlighted her genuine warmth and care for others. Kelly expressed deep gratitude for the lessons in both winning and living life to the fullest that Jones had imparted.
In honoring Jones’s memory, the curling community and beyond mourned the loss of a true icon and friend, remembering her as a beacon of sportsmanship and authenticity.
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