Dunstone guides Manitoba to Canadian men's curling title against Koe

In an exhilarating display of skill and determination, Matt Dunstone has etched his name in the annals of Canadian curling history by clinching his first Canadian men’s curling championship. This victory is not just a mere win; it signifies a culmination of hard work, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Dunstone's journey to the championship has been fraught with challenges, but it is a testament to his unwavering spirit and the support of his dedicated team.

Victory at the Canadian Men’s Curling Championship

Dunstone’s Manitoba team triumphed over the seasoned four-time champion Kevin Koe of Alberta with a score of 6-3 in a gripping final held in St. John’s. This match marked Dunstone’s third appearance in the finals within four years, showcasing his consistency and prowess in the sport. Previously, he faced defeats in 2025 and 2023, alongside notable third-place finishes in 2020 and 2021.

“This moment feels way more incredible than I ever would have imagined,” Dunstone expressed, highlighting the emotional weight of this victory. The 30-year-old skip emphasized how the heartache from past competitions fueled his performance, allowing him to play with freedom and confidence throughout the tournament.

Path to the Championship: Overcoming Challenges

Dunstone's path to victory was paved with intense competition and strategic gameplay. He previously suffered setbacks, such as losing both the Olympic trials final and the Canadian championship final to Brad Jacobs last year. This time, however, Dunstone and his team executed an impressive game plan, even eliminating the reigning Olympic champion Jacobs with a decisive 7-3 win in the semi-finals.

Reflecting on the past couple of months, Dunstone remarked, “The two months we had after the trials were very difficult for us. We had a really good reset. This was a major event that we wanted to perform at.” Their resilience paid off, and they entered the final with a renewed sense of purpose.

The Final Match: A Tactical Masterclass

The championship match was a tightly contested affair, characterized by three blank ends in the first six frames. Koe initially led 2-1 going into the seventh end. However, the game turned dramatically when Koe missed a crucial runback hit, allowing Dunstone to seize the opportunity. He stated, “It’s time to dance,” unleashing a series of well-executed shots that would alter the course of the game.

His first throw was a calculated tap and roll, putting him in a commanding position. Koe's subsequent freeze attempt fell short, giving Dunstone the chance to score three points—marking the first time Koe had conceded points throughout the entire tournament.

• Dunstone’s scoring in the seventh end shifted the momentum to a 4-2 lead.
• The Dunstone team applied relentless pressure, filling the rings with rocks and forcing Koe into challenging positions.
• Koe managed a single point in the eighth end, trailing 4-3, but Dunstone quickly responded.
• With a solid team effort, Dunstone added another two points in the ninth end to extend his lead to 6-3.

As Dunstone executed the final takeout, he fell to his knees in celebration, marking the culmination of years of hard work and determination.

A Team of Champions: Profiles and Contributions

The victory was not solely Dunstone’s; it was a collective effort from his entire team: Colton Lott, E.J. Harnden, and Ryan Harnden. Each member brought unique skills and experience to the rink, enhancing their chances of success. Lott, who celebrated his first Brier title, has a storied history with Dunstone, having previously won a Canadian junior championship alongside him.

E.J. Harnden, a seasoned veteran, secured his fourth Brier title in his final season of competitive curling. His contributions to the game have been immense, and he expressed profound happiness for his teammates: “I couldn’t be happier for Matt and Colton and Ryan. It’s been 13 years for Ryan. First Brier for Colton and Matt.”

Significance of the Win and Future Challenges

Dunstone and his team will now represent Canada at the men’s world championship scheduled from March 27 to April 4 in Ogden, Utah. The weight of this victory will undoubtedly motivate them as they prepare for the international stage. Additionally, the Manitoba team has secured their spot at next year’s Brier in Saskatoon as the defending champions, adding another layer of significance to their win.

The financial reward is also notable, with the winning team taking home $100,000 from a total prize purse of $300,000, underscoring the high stakes involved in competitive curling.

Attendance and Engagement: A Thriving Community

The 2026 Brier saw total attendance reach 143,100, marking the highest turnout since St. John’s last hosted the event in 2017, which had an attendance of 122,592. This surge in interest reflects the growing popularity of curling in Canada and the community’s engagement with the sport.

As the celebrations continued, the emotional bond between the Harnden brothers was palpable, showcasing the camaraderie that defines the spirit of curling. E.J. noted, “A lot of I love you and we have a few more games to play now,” indicating that while this championship is a significant milestone, there is still much more to accomplish in their curling careers.

Looking Ahead: The Legacy of Dunstone and His Team

Dunstone’s victory may be the start of a new legacy in Canadian curling. With his skill set and leadership, he has the potential to inspire a new generation of curlers. The collective achievements of his team highlight the importance of teamwork, resilience, and a shared vision in competitive sports.

As they prepare for future challenges, including their participation in the world championship, the lessons learned through adversity will undoubtedly serve them well. Dunstone’s journey is a reminder of the power of perseverance and the rewards that come from hard work and dedication in the world of sports.