Winnipeg Curler Briane Harris Cleared After Lengthy Suspension, Advocates for Change in Drug Testing

Briane Harris, a 32-year-old curler from Winnipeg, has emerged from a year-long battle with a sense of relief and renewed purpose, after being cleared of doping charges related to the banned substance Ligandrol. The ruling, which came in August 2024 after a hearing at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, marks the end of an agonizing chapter for Harris, who was suspended in January 2024 just weeks before the Canadian curling championship.

Harris had tested positive for Ligandrol, a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM), following a routine drug test at her home. However, the substance, which is banned by anti-doping authorities, was traced back to a supplement unknowingly consumed by her husband. Harris believes that the substance was likely transferred to her through kissing—a scenario she says is nearly impossible to guard against. Despite her confidence in her innocence, Harris faced a lengthy legal battle that drained her both emotionally and financially, costing nearly $40,000 in tests and lawyer fees.

"I knew I hadn’t done anything wrong, but trying to prove that was a whole different story," Harris said in an emotional interview after the ruling. "It was a year of uncertainty and isolation, not just from my teammates and coach, but from the sport I love."

The suspension, which prohibited her from engaging in curling-related activities—including communication with her team—was particularly challenging. For 11 months, Harris was banned from stepping onto the ice, fearing any violation of the rules. The isolation was compounded by the emotional toll it took on her and her family.

"Not being able to talk about curling with my teammates was the hardest part," Harris reflected. "It felt like I was being cut off from a huge part of my identity. My family and friends wanted to support me, but they didn't always know what to say. It was a lonely time."

Harris also expressed the strain the situation placed on her husband, whose unintentional use of the supplement led to her suspension. "I can't blame him, but it was devastating to watch him go through that guilt," she said. "It just goes to show that athletes should not be penalized for things that are out of their control."

While the ruling in her favor was a major victory, Harris acknowledges that her return to competitive curling will not be immediate. Team Einarson, with whom Harris has competed in the past, is currently competing without her, and Harris understands that regaining her spot on the team will take time. However, she is determined to continue her curling career, bolstered by the clarity of her legal win.

"I’m excited to get back on the ice, but my focus now is on more than just my comeback," Harris explained. "I want to raise awareness for athletes who might find themselves in situations like this. The regulations around drug testing need to be clearer, and there needs to be more education on how these substances can unintentionally affect athletes."

Harris's story has already sparked conversations in the curling community and beyond about the potential pitfalls of anti-doping policies, particularly when substances are ingested unknowingly. As a vocal advocate for change, she hopes to help prevent other athletes from enduring the same hardships.

Looking ahead, Harris is focused on rebuilding her curling career, using her experience to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about fairness and transparency in sports. "I’m grateful to be cleared, but this isn't just about me anymore," she said. "I want to ensure that others don’t have to go through what I did."

With the legal battle behind her and the support of her family, Harris is ready to return to the ice and continue competing at the highest level—this time, with a renewed sense of purpose and a mission to make the world of sports a safer and more just place for all athletes.