From the pebbled ice, to the green fairways – the Tankard Trophy has made a pit stop in Kamloops.
Awarded to the Brier Champion in men’s curling, Kamloops resident Matt Dunstone is enjoying his time with “Tank”.
“Now that things have settled down a bit we’ve been able to soak it in and celebrate – be proud of what we accomplished,” said Dunstone during a round at Rivershore Golf Links Tuesday afternoon.
The 30 year-old skip finally captured the Brier title after being a runner-up in 2023 to Brad Gushue’s rink and is 2025 to Brad Jacobs.
Team Dunstone represented Team Manitoba along with third Colton Lott, second E.J. Harnden, and lead Ryan Harnden. They captured the Brier in St. John’s Newfoundland back in the spring with a 6-3 win over Team Alberta skipped by Kevin Koe.
Dunstone strapped the Tankard Trophy that dates back to 1927 to the top of a golf cart for a round of golf with friends. It drew plenty of attention from both golfers and the residents of Rivershore.
“The stories of people saying they were watching and cheering you on… I think in the moment you don’t realize how much support you have,” said Dunstone.
“I think in these moments, you get reminded of that.”
There are subtle reminders that we remain in a hockey crazy City. One golfer posed with the Trophy under the assumption it was the Memorial Cup – awarded this past weekend in Kelowna.
“I’m hearing it looks awful similar (laughs), quipped Dunstone.
“With the tournament being fresh in the minds of people it’s understandable… but no, I’m not a member of the Kitchener Rangers (laughs).”
Dunstone is hoping this isn’t a one and done scenario
“It’s been tough to win one but very rewarding. I think we’re motivated to go on a run and try and make this an annual thing.”
Dunstone has a sponsor event in Vernon on the weekend before he heads off to his hometown of Winnipeg.
“We’re going to take it the home curling club (Granite Curling Club) where we will have an event on the 14th.”
“It’ll be nice to share with all the supporters and the hometown fans we have. From there I’ll ship it to The Soo – for the Harnden brothers to enjoy,” Dunstone continued.
“It’s awesome we get this chance to enjoy some time with it.”
