Defending champion Gushue scores back-to-back wins to open Tour Challenge

THUNDER BAY, Ont. — Defending champion Brad Gushue is off to a strong start at the Tour Challenge.

Gushue downed Toronto’s John Epping 10-8 in Wednesday’s evening draw to move to 2-0 at the third stop on the Grand Slam of Curling circuit.

The skip from St. John’s N.L., was trailing Epping (1-1) 7-4 before scoring four in the sixth end for his first lead of the draw. That came after putting up a four spot in the fourth end to make it 5-5.

Gushue also toppled American Rich Ruohonen (1-1) 7-4 in his opening draw on Tuesday.

Regina’s Matt Dunstone (1-1) beat Sweden’s Niklas Edin (0-2) 5-4, while Edmonton’s Brendan Botcher (1-1) defeated Glen Howard of Penetanguishe, Ont., (1-1) 5-4 in Wednesday’s other evening draws on the men’s side.

Young minds, big ideas: Elementary students learn about urban planning with 'Box City'

20h ago

HERE'S WHAT TO KNOW

Summer pool hours extended and discounts applied as Big Marble Go Centre upgrades start

Apr 18, 2024

Medicine Hat company drawing in clients with witty signage

Apr 16, 2024

Meanwhile, Winnipeg’s Kerri Einarson, a two-time Tour Challenge winner including last season, is 2-0 after downing Edmonton’s Chelsea Carey (1-1) 7-3 Wednesday evening.

Einarson opened with a triple in the first end and led the rest of the way.

Switzerland’s Silvana Tirinzoni (1-1) beat Winnipeg’s Allison Flaxey (1-1) 7-2 in the only other women’s draw of the night.

Round-robin play continues until Friday, with the playoffs on Saturday and the championship draw Sunday.

The Canadian Press