E.J. Harnden’s passion for curling ignited when he witnessed his father’s participation in the hometown Brier back in 1990 at the Sault Memorial Gardens. This moment sparked a desire in Harnden to pursue the sport, leading him to achieve significant success over a 15-year career as a top front-end player, including winning an Olympic gold medal and securing three national titles.
Recently, Harnden, who currently plays second for Matt Dunstone’s team based in Winnipeg, shared on social media that the ongoing 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 wish to dedicate more time to his family.
Reflecting on his decision, Harnden acknowledged his continued love for competing but realized that the current season would mark the end of his curling journey. The announcement precedes his participation in the last Grand Slam event and his 17th and final appearance at the upcoming Montana’s Brier.
Teaming up with his younger brother Ryan Harnden, the duo, known as the “Brush Brothers,” debuted at the Brier in 2008 under the skip, their father Eric Harnden. Their breakthrough at the national level occurred two years later, guided by cousin Brad Jacobs as they reached the Page 1-2 playoff game but were defeated in the semifinals by eventual champion Kevin Koe.
The physical demands of the sport, especially the emphasis on fitness and weight training, started becoming prominent during the Harnden brothers’ era in curling. Despite being recognized as one of the top sweepers in the game for an extended period, Harnden, now 42 years old, admitted to feeling the effects of wear and tear on his body.
In a remarkable period in 2013, Harnden, Jacobs, Ryan Fry, and the Harnden brothers secured several victories, including winning the Pre-Trials, the Canadian Curling Trials, and ultimately clinching the Olympic gold at the 2014 Sochi Games. This success was attributed to Harnden’s competitive spirit and drive for excellence, fostering a culture of high standards within the team.
Following his partnership with Brad Gushue’s team, which yielded Brier titles and world silver medals, Harnden recently reunited with his brother Ryan on Dunstone’s team, currently leading the Canadian rankings. Acknowledging Harnden’s impact on the sport for his strength, athleticism, intensity, and sweeping prowess, Dunstone hailed him as one of the best sweepers in curling history.
Despite reaching the final at the Brier and the Trials this year with Dunstone’s rink, they faced defeat against Jacobs on both occasions. Harnden took a moment before the Trials final to reflect on his career’s significant moments over the past four years, recognizing the privilege of being part of those experiences.
Throughout his career, Harnden maintained an impressive performance record, achieving an 87% success rate at the Brier, Trials, and Canada Cup competitions.