As Canada’s premier curling teams convene in Halifax, local curlers from Sault Ste. Marie are preparing for the Canadian Olympic Curling Trials. Beginning Saturday, the trials feature eight men’s and eight women’s teams, all competing for a chance to represent Canada at the Winter Olympic Games in Milano Cortina, Italy.
Local Curlers Representing Canada
Brad Jacobs, leading a Calgary-based team, is among the competitors in the men’s category. Jacobs, who has an impressive curling history, stepped back from competitive play before rejoining forces with teammates Marc Kennedy, Brett Gallant, and Ben Hebert in April 2024. This team formation came after the three players parted ways with their previous skip, Brendan Bottcher. Jacobs described this new collaboration as an opportunity he “couldn’t refuse.”
Recent Accomplishments
The Jacobs team recently won gold at the Pan Continental Curling Championship, defeating American skip John Shuster. They also claimed the Brier title in March, solidifying their position as the defending Canadian national champions. In April, they represented Canada and earned a bronze medal at the World Men’s Curling Championship.
Competing Teams at the Trials
- Brad Jacobs – Calgary-based team
- Matt Dunstone – Manitoba-based team, includes E.J. and Ryan Harnden
The Harnden brothers are also competing in the Olympic Trials. Ryan joined Dunstone’s team after the original Team Jacobs disbanded in 2022. E.J. initially joined Brad Gushue’s Newfoundland team but transitioned to Dunstone’s squad in December 2024. E.J. expressed excitement about the prospects, praising the mix of experience and talent in Dunstone’s lineup.
Dynamic Team Synergy
During the recent Henderson Metal Fall Classic, Dunstone praised E.J.’s impact on team dynamics, citing his remarkable sweeping ability and the infectious energy he brings to the rink. Ryan also commented positively on reuniting with E.J., saying it feels seamless, as though they never parted ways.
Upcoming Matches
The schedule for the Olympic Trials is as follows:
Team Jacobs’ Matches
- Nov. 22 vs. Kevin Koe
- Nov. 23 vs. Rylan Kleiter
- Nov. 24 vs. Mike McEwen, vs. Jordon McDonald
- Nov. 25 vs. John Epping
- Nov. 26 vs. Matt Dunstone, vs. Brad Gushue
Team Dunstone’s Matches
- Nov. 22 vs. John Epping
- Nov. 23 vs. Jordon McDonald
- Nov. 24 vs. Rylan Kleiter, vs. Brad Gushue
- Nov. 25 vs. Kevin Koe
- Nov. 26 vs. Brad Jacobs, vs. Mike McEwen
The anticipation is high as these skilled teams compete for Olympic glory. The trials in Halifax will showcase the talents of local curlers who strive to earn their place on the world stage.
