Curling icon and veteran CBC reporter Colleen Jones has passed away at the age of 65 after a courageous battle with cancer. Jones was a remarkable figure in the world of curling, known for her extensive achievements and contributions to sports journalism.
Colleen Jones: A Legacy in Curling
Colleen Jones was a two-time world champion, winning titles in 2001 and 2004. She also claimed the Canadian women’s championship title six times. Her remarkable career included 21 appearances at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts, making her the curler with the most games played in the history of this national championship.
- Two-time World Champion: 2001, 2004
- Six-time Canadian Women’s Champion
- 21 Appearances at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts
- World Senior Women’s Championship Skip: 2017
A Trailblazer in Broadcasting
Jones also made a significant impact on Canadian broadcasting. She began her career at CBC in 1986 as the first female sports anchor in Halifax. Over the next 40 years, she reported on numerous significant events, covering 10 Olympic Games, from Atlanta in 1996 to Pyeongchang in 2018.
In recognition of her contributions to journalism and sports, Jones received several honors. She was inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame in 2016 and was appointed to the Order of Canada in 2022. She celebrated this honor in a ceremony led by Governor General Mary Simon.
Inspiring Women in Sports
Throughout her career, Jones emphasized the importance of women in sports. “Women can dream these dreams, too,” she often said, advocating for opportunities in athletics and media for future generations. She noted the growth of women’s sports across various disciplines, including basketball, hockey, and soccer.
Beyond her achievements as an athlete and reporter, Jones also coached curling after her retirement. This year, she had the pleasure of coaching her son’s team at the Brier, Canada’s men’s curling championship.
A Personal Journey
In her 2015 autobiography, “Throwing Rocks at Houses: My Life in and out of Curling,” Jones shared insights into her life and battles, including her recovery from a serious case of bacterial meningitis in 2010. She stressed the importance of appreciating life and seizing the moment.
Colleen Jones leaves behind her husband, Scott Saunders, and their two sons, Zach and Luke, along with one grandson. Her legacy as a champion curler and a groundbreaking reporter will be cherished by many in the sports community.
