E.J. Harnden: A Legacy of Excellence in Curling

E.J. Harnden's journey to becoming one of Canada's most decorated curlers was shaped by his early admiration for his father, Eric Harnden Sr., a three-time Northern Ontario curling champion. Growing up in a curling household, E.J. and his brother Ryan were inspired by their father's achievements on the ice, particularly his performance at the 1990 Brier in Sault Ste. Marie, where fans passionately chanted his name. The Harnden brothers were so captivated by their father’s skill and presence that they began dreaming of following in his footsteps. E.J. fondly recalls, "We grew up watching him curl. At that time it was, 'Man, would I ever like to do what he's doing.' We were so proud of him."

At just eight years old, E.J. was introduced to curling by his father, who not only passed down his love for the sport but also instilled the values of excellence and class that would define E.J.'s own career. With a solid foundation in the sport and an unwavering drive to succeed, Harnden embarked on what would become a distinguished and highly successful curling career.

Career Highlights: A Trailblazer in Canadian Curling

E.J. Harnden’s career is a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to curling. Over the years, he has achieved remarkable success at both the national and international levels, consistently competing at the highest echelons of the sport.

1. Olympic Glory: Gold in Sochi 2014

One of the crowning achievements of Harnden's career came at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, where he helped Team Canada capture the gold medal in men's curling. Harnden played alongside his brother Ryan and their cousin Brad Jacobs, forming a dynamic and successful team. The victory in Sochi solidified Harnden's place as one of the top curlers in the world, and the achievement was a direct reflection of his skill and composure under pressure.

2. World Championship Success

E.J. Harnden's performances on the world stage have also been impressive. In 2013, he earned a silver medal at the World Curling Championships, a year before his Olympic triumph. This success was the result of a combination of precision, strategy, and team cohesion, all of which became hallmarks of Harnden’s curling style.

3. Tim Hortons Brier (Canadian Men's Curling Championship)

Harnden’s success at the Tim Hortons Brier, Canada's most prestigious curling event, is a cornerstone of his career. Over the years, he has won numerous Brier medals, including:

• Gold (2013): Harnden won his first Brier championship with Team Jacobs in 2013, a landmark victory in his career.
• Silver (2015): A narrow loss in the final in 2015 saw Harnden and Team Jacobs settle for silver.
• Bronze (2010, 2016): Harnden’s consistency was evident in his multiple Brier bronze medals, adding to his reputation as one of the most dependable players in the competition.

From 2008 to 2024, E.J. was a regular fixture at the Brier, showcasing his longevity and resilience in one of the most competitive curling tournaments in the world.

4. Grand Slam Dominance

In the 2019-2020 season, E.J. Harnden and Team Jacobs went on a tear through the Grand Slam of Curling events, winning three consecutive titles. These victories solidified his status as a force to be reckoned with on the world curling circuit, demonstrating his ability to perform at the highest level across multiple competitions.

5. Team Changes and Adaptability

While Harnden spent the majority of his career with Team Jacobs, a significant shift came in May 2022 when he joined Team Brad Gushue. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career, and he quickly became a key contributor to Gushue's team. In 2023 and 2024, Harnden helped lead Team Gushue to back-to-back Brier championships, showcasing his ability to adapt to new teams and continue delivering top-tier performances on the national stage.

Playing Positions and Versatility

E.J. Harnden began his curling journey as a skip in his junior years, but throughout his professional career, he became known for his versatility in the lineup. Over the course of his career, he played various positions, including third and second, adapting to the needs of his team. His flexibility and team-first attitude have made him an invaluable asset, as he was able to seamlessly integrate into different team dynamics and continue contributing at the highest level of the sport.

Legacy and Influence

E.J. Harnden’s impact on Canadian curling extends beyond his impressive medal count and tournament victories. His legacy is defined by his dedication to the sport, his ability to inspire the next generation of curlers, and his role in continuing the strong tradition of excellence in Canadian curling. Growing up idolizing his father, Harnden now serves as a role model for young curlers across the country, demonstrating the values of hard work, teamwork, and perseverance.

As he continues to compete at the highest levels, E.J. Harnden’s influence on the sport is undeniable. His journey—from watching his father compete, to winning Olympic gold and becoming one of Canada's most decorated curlers—serves as a powerful testament to the power of inspiration, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence.

Conclusion

E.J. Harnden’s curling career is a remarkable story of passion, perseverance, and success. His accomplishments, including an Olympic gold medal, World Championship silver, and multiple Brier titles, place him among the elite curlers in the history of the sport. With each victory, Harnden has added to the rich tapestry of Canadian curling, solidifying his place as a true champion and a beloved figure in the curling community. Whether playing for Team Jacobs or Team Gushue, Harnden’s commitment to excellence and his ability to inspire those around him remain a cornerstone of his legacy.