Brad Gushue has exhibited remarkable performance at the Brier. The skip hailing from St. John’s is not only the reigning champion for two consecutive years but has also secured victory in five of the last seven tournaments. Gushue demonstrates exceptional skill with the curling stone and returns this year with the aim of enhancing his illustrious career. In terms of historical significance, the Brier boasts a deep-rooted heritage, including the origins of its name. Further details are available regarding the reasons behind the tournament’s designation as the Brier.

1. In contrast to the Scotties, which is identified by the name of its sponsor, the Brier does not adopt the corporate name associated with its tournament.

For nearly two decades, the event was known as the Tim Hortons Brier, as the well-known coffee chain served as the primary sponsor of Curling Canada’s annual competition from 2005 until the previous year. Beginning this year, the tournament will officially be called Montana’s Brier, with Montana’s BBQ & Bar stepping in as the new sponsor.

But what precisely does “Brier” signify?

For the initial fifty years, the tournament was backed by Macdonald Tobacco. The term “Brier” originates from a tobacco brand produced by Macdonald during that period. A brier refers to a small shrub whose roots were traditionally utilized in the crafting of tobacco pipes. Initially, the tournament was named the Macdonald Brier.

In 1977, Macdonald Tobacco declared its withdrawal from sponsoring the Brier, prompted by the Canadian government’s increasing regulations on tobacco. Although Labatt Brewing Company was appointed as the new sponsor, the event retained the “Brier” designation.