E.J. Harnden’s passion for curling ignited when he witnessed his father competing at a local Brier event in 1990 at the Sault Memorial Gardens. This moment sparked his interest in the sport, leading him to achieve remarkable success over a 15-year career as a top front-end player, clinching an Olympic gold medal and three national titles.
Recently, Harnden, who serves as the second for Matt Dunstone’s team based in Winnipeg, shared on social media that the ongoing season would mark his final one in competitive curling. The decision stems from his desire to prioritize spending more time with his family, as he is a devoted husband and father of two.
With his brother Ryan Harnden playing at the lead position, the duo, known as the “Brush Brothers,” made their Brier debut back in 2008 under the skip of their father, Eric Harnden. The siblings later excelled at the national level, securing a spot in the Page 1-2 playoff game in 2010 with cousin Brad Jacobs delivering the final stone.
As the demands for fitness and weight training in curling increased, the Harnden brothers emerged as leaders in adapting to these changes within the sport. Despite being recognized as one of the top sweepers in the game, Harnden, now 42, acknowledges feeling the effects of physical wear and tear.
Harnden’s crowning achievement came in 2013 when he, along with Jacobs, Ryan Fry, and Ryan Harnden, triumphed at the nationals, leading to a remarkable year that included a Pre-Trials victory, a Canadian Curling Trials championship, and Olympic glory at the 2014 Sochi Games.
Having played alongside Brad Jacobs until the 2021-22 season, Harnden later teamed up with skip Brad Gushue, securing Brier titles in 2023 and 2024, along with consecutive world silver medals. Despite parting ways with Gushue, Harnden reunited with his brother on Dunstone’s squad, currently topping the Canadian rankings.
Recognized for his exceptional strength, athleticism, enthusiasm, intensity, and sweeping prowess, Harnden has made a lasting impact on the sport. His notable 87% shooting accuracy across Brier, Trials, and Canada Cup events speaks to his consistency and skill on the ice.