Matt Dunstone’s Triumph
“This moment feels way more incredible than I ever would have imagined,” exclaimed Matt Dunstone after clinching his first Canadian men’s curling championship by defeating the seasoned Kevin Koe 6-3 in the final held in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador on March 8, 2026. The victory marked a significant milestone for Dunstone, who had previously fallen short in Brier finals in 2023 and 2025, as well as earning bronze in 2020 and 2021.
A Stellar Performance
Dunstone’s team, representing Manitoba, showcased an impressive performance throughout the match, with a shooting percentage of 94 percent compared to Koe’s 86 percent. The victory not only secured Dunstone and his teammates—Colton Lott, E.J. Harnden, and Ryan Harnden—a coveted title but also a spot at the upcoming LGT World Men’s Curling Championship.
Celebrating the Win
Following the match, E.J. Harnden expressed his joy, stating, “I couldn’t be happier for Matt and Colton and Ryan.” The camaraderie and support within the team were evident as they celebrated their hard-fought victory. Dunstone’s proclamation, “It’s time to dance,” encapsulated the elation felt by the team as they embraced their achievement.
A Record Attendance
The 2026 Brier drew a total attendance of 143,100, the highest since 2017, highlighting the growing popularity of curling in Canada. Fans filled the stands to witness the thrilling final, underscoring the sport’s significance in the national sporting landscape.
Looking Ahead
With this championship win, Dunstone’s team will represent Canada at the LGT World Men’s Curling Championship, scheduled to take place from March 27 to April 4 in Ogden, Utah. This opportunity marks a new chapter for Dunstone, who has worked tirelessly to achieve this level of success.
Kevin Koe’s Legacy
Kevin Koe, a four-time Brier champion, faced a challenging match against Dunstone, who has emerged as a formidable competitor in the curling world. Koe’s experience and skill were evident, but Dunstone’s performance proved to be the decisive factor in the final outcome.
Conclusion of the Championship
The 2026 Brier final not only showcased the talent of both teams but also highlighted the evolving dynamics of Canadian curling. As Dunstone celebrates his victory, the curling community looks forward to the next chapter in his career and the continued rivalry between these talented athletes.
