tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83984661137357822942024-03-13T05:41:52.704-07:00Hardline Curling NewsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger60125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-13792076418491938492016-06-27T09:47:00.001-07:002016-06-27T09:48:50.171-07:00Hardline Curling Response to New WCF Guidelines<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Hardline Curling Response to New WCF Guidelines<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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St-Laurent QC - June 27, 2016</div>
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Hardline Curling would like to congratulate the players and
the WCF for coming together at the recent Sweeping Summit and finding a
solution for the Elite level player. <o:p></o:p></div>
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First, based on the player testing performed, the players
decided that all performance enhancing properties (i.e. ridges, foil, plastic
insert) from <b><u>ALL</u></b>
manufacturers were deemed excessive for Elite play. Second, it took the players
several testing sessions to find a fabric that minimized the effectiveness of
sweeping. Based on our previously stated position, we would have preferred that
the WCF come out with new sweeping rules, but we believe finding a fabric that
minimizes the effectiveness of sweeping is a reasonable second solution. Hardline
Curling was one of the few that stated at the start of the controversy that the
WCF should have taken all performance enhancing properties out from all the
manufacturers and the Elite players should have been playing with foam on
fabric. This being said, we hope now that these issues are now behind us and we
can all move forward.<span style="color: lime;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i>What is this new
fabric? <o:p></o:p></i></div>
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Based on what we currently know, there are questions
surrounding the approved fabric which is mostly centered on its durability. Testing
will continue at the start of the year, but the fear is that the new fabric
might last for only one or two games and as such, will add significant costs to
competitive curlers around the world who do not have the sponsorship money that
the Elite curlers do. This is unfortunate, but the players at the Sweeping
Summit saw that any type of waterproof material as well as the majority of
other non-coated fabric was also deemed “too much” in terms of its
effectiveness at the Elite level. Hardline Curling is currently working diligently
to manufacture our icePad covers using the approved fabric based on the limited
supply we have. We will be calling the new product “Maxim”. Oxford dictionary
defines Maxim as a statement expressing a “rule of conduct”. The new cover
should be available starting next Monday. Competitive curlers using Hardline
brooms will have the tools necessary for the start of the year. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>What does this mean
for the design of the icePad?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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The icePad design and head construction passed the Sweeping
Summit testing with flying colors. In fact, Hardline was told that the
construction of the actual head had minimal effect on the manipulation of a
rock. Putting aside the sweeping technique, the manipulation of a rock was
mostly as a result of the performance enhancing attributes of a brush (foil,
ridges and insert) as well as the fabric used. Therefore, the icePad design is
good to go and here to stay for a long time!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>What this decision means
for a recreational curler?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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In most cases, absolutely nothing – there will most likely
be no change. The testing that was conducted was from the best sweepers in the
world, on championship ice, using a brand new pad that was only used once and
therefore, not a good representation of the general curling public. The
decision by the Elite players and the WCF at the Sweeping Summit is only for
Elite players and for tournaments that lead to a National or World Championship. It is also most likely to be adopted by the Grand
Slams and WCT events since teams earn Order of Merit points at these events.
For the recreational curler, we do not believe anything will change. However, each
curling club will be able to make its own decision as to whether they will adopt
the new WCF guidelines or not<span style="color: blue;">. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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For non-Elite events, bonspiels may or may not use WCF
guidelines. Please check ahead of your spiel to determine if the WCF guidelines
apply. Our recommendation would be if it is a very competitive spiel with cash
prizes or that earn points to provincials, use the WCF guidelines. If it is
just a fun bonspiel, then play with whatever what was available in the past. Be sure to contact your respective regional
curling associations and let them know your thoughts. <b>Hardline
Curling would like to make it clear that we are indifferent as to what curling
clubs and tournament organizers ultimately decide to do. Whatever your decision
is, just know that we will have the products available for you to play the great
sport of curling.</b> <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>What does all this
mean for Hardline Nation?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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During this past curling season, because of the uncertain
environment created by the moratorium and rules changes to equipment, several
curlers decided to wait to make their equipment purchase. Now that the new
brush guidelines have been announced, the icePad is still in the best shape to
adapt to competitive as well as recreational curlers and we believe is still
the best curling brush on the market.
Hardline Curling is currently<span style="color: blue;"> </span>increasing production of icePad's to meet the
expected demand. We appreciate your patience during this time and we thank you
again for your continued support. Hardline Curling will continue to strive to
develop innovative products, and provide the best curling products to all
curlers.<span style="color: blue;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-40428739682949152942016-05-06T10:04:00.001-07:002022-10-27T07:33:37.370-07:00Hardline 2015/16 Recap – An Amazing Season!<h1>
Hardline 2015/16 Recap – An Amazing Season!</h1>
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The 2015-16 curling season for #HardlineNation was simply
AMAZING! We are so proud of our teams
and all of their successes! Here’s a
summary of a few of our teams’ accomplishments over the past curling season:</div>
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<b><u>Team Gushue</u></b></div>
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After joining #HardlineNation at the start of the 2015-16
season, Team Gushue went on to have one of the most successful years in
history! Some of their accomplishments:</div>
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Grand Slam wins – National, Elite 10, Players Championship</li>
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silver medalists</li>
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the money list with over $194,000 </li>
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wins, including 9 tournament wins</li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><st1:city w:st="on">Rogers</st1:city> Grand Slam
Cup Champions</li>
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<b><u>Team McEwen<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Coming off a great year in 2014-15, Team McEwen was poised
to have another solid season in 2015-16.
The highlight of their year was capturing the elusive <st1:state w:st="on">Manitoba</st1:state>
provincial title earning their first Brier berth in <st1:city w:st="on">Ottawa</st1:city>. They
also had 3 event wins including the Masters Grand Slam, Stu Sells Toronto, and
Point Optical Curling Classic. They were
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<b><u>Team Carruthers<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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In their 2<sup>nd</sup> season together, Team Carruthers
captured the inaugural season ending Champions Cup for their first Grand Slam
win. They were also finalists in two
other GSOC events this year (National, Elite 10), and won the Dekalb
Classic. They also finished 3<sup>rd</sup>
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<b><u>Team Carey<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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The 2015-16 season saw Chelsea Carey take over skipping
duties from Heather Nedohin, and with Amy Nixon, Jocelyn Peterman, and Laine
Peters won the <st1:state w:st="on">Alberta</st1:state>
provincials and then had a fantastic week winning the Scotties Tournament of
Hearts! They made playoffs in 6 WCT
events, including 2 event finals.</div>
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<b><u>Team Tirinzoni<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Team Tirinzoni’s 2<sup>nd</sup> year with #HardlineNation
got off to a great start winning their 1<sup>st</sup> Grand Slam title in
Paradise NL at the Tour Challenge! They
had 3 wins on tour, 12 playoff appearances including 8 finals and 11 top-3
finishes, and finished # 2 on the money list and # 3 on the Order of Merit for
2015-16! </div>
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<b><u>Team Shuster<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Team Shuster of the <st1:place w:st="on">USA</st1:place> had a very successful season.
They won the Bronze medal at the Men’s World Championships, won 3 WCT events,
qualified for the Continental Cup of Curling and Curling Night in <st1:country-region w:st="on">America</st1:country-region>, and
reached the semi finals in the opening Tour Challenge Grand Slam event.</div>
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<b><u>Team Laycock<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Team Laycock’s first year with Hardline Curling was a solid
one. They won the SK Tankard and the Canad Inn’s Classic. They had 10 playoff appearances including 6
top-3 finishes. They finished 6<sup>th</sup>
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<b><u>Team McCarville<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Krista McCarville made a return to competitive curling this
year and what a season it was! They were
Scotties Tournament of Hearts finalists, including defeating Team <st1:place w:st="on">Canada</st1:place>
in a semi-final to remember, and had 4 WCT wins, earning a berth into the
season ending GSOC Champions Cup.</div>
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<b><u>Team Thomas<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Charley Thomas had an impressive year on the tour, winning
the Original 16 WCT bonspiel. They were also AB Tankard finalists, and made
playoffs in 10 of 11 events played including 7 top-3’s. They finished 9<sup>th</sup> on the CTRS
standings for 2015-16. Charley also won
the gold medal in New Zealand Winter Games 2015 playing mixed doubles with <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Kalynn</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Park</st1:placetype></st1:place>.</div>
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Hardline Curling is proud of all our teams who qualified for the
Scotties, the Brier, and World’s this season:</div>
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<i><u>Scotties:<o:p></o:p></u></i></div>
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Chelsea Carey – AB </div>
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Krista McCarville – NO </div>
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Kerri Einarson – MB </div>
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Jolene Campbell – SK </div>
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Stacie Curtis – NL</div>
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Karla Thompson – BC</div>
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<i><u>Brier:<o:p></o:p></u></i></div>
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Brad Gushue – NL</div>
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Mike McEwen – MB</div>
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Steve Laycock – SK</div>
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Mike Kennedy – NB</div>
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Jamie Koe – NWT </div>
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<i><u>World
Championships:<o:p></o:p></u></i></div>
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Chelsea Carey - <st1:country-region w:st="on">Canada</st1:country-region></div>
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John Shuster – <st1:place w:st="on">USA</st1:place></div>
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Aku Kauste – <st1:place w:st="on">Finland</st1:place></div>
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Alexander Baumann – <st1:country-region w:st="on">Germany</st1:country-region></div>
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Max Kirkpatrick - <st1:country-region w:st="on">Canada</st1:country-region></div>
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Some other highlights of the season, national and provincial
champions, and WCT event winners:</div>
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Max Kirkpatrick – 2015/16 World Mixed Championships </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Jocelyn
Peterman & Brett Gallant – Canadian Mixed Doubles 2016 Champions</li>
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Colleen Jones – 2016 Canadian Senior Women’s Champions</li>
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Bryan Cochrane – 2016 Canadian Senior Men’s Champions</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Team
Einarson –MB Scotties champion, GSOC Tour Challenge Tier 2 winner, 4<sup>th</sup>
place at STOH, 10 playoff appearances including 6 top-3 finishes</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Team <st1:country-region w:st="on">Canada</st1:country-region> with Tyler Tardi & Sterling
Middleton won the Youth Olympic Gold medal in <st1:place w:st="on">Lillehammer</st1:place></li>
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Felix Asselin – QC Junior Men’s Provincial Champs</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Team
Tyler Tardi – BC Junior Men’s Provincial Champs</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Team
Jacob Hersikorn – SK Junior Men’s Provincial Champs</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Team
Alex Robichaud – NB Junior Men’s Provincial Champs</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Team
Kourtney Fesser – SK Junior Women’s Provincial Champs</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Team
Brooke Godsland – NL Junior Women’s Provincial Champs</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Team
Jacqueline Harrison – <st1:place w:st="on">Oakville</st1:place>
OCT Fall Classic, Gord Carroll Curling Classic, Royal Lepage OVCA Fall
Classic</li>
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Peter De Cruz – Cookstown Cash</li>
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Allison Flaxey – KW Fall Classic</li>
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Shaun Meachem – HDF Insurance Shootout, <st1:city w:st="on">Medicine Hat</st1:city> Charity Classic</li>
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Dean Joanisse – Cloverdale Cash Spiel</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Team
Jeff Hartung – Westwood Inn Classic</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Team
Michelle Montford – Mother Club Fall Curling Classic</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Team Kristy McDonald - MB Scotties finalists, 6 playoff appearances, T3 Masters GSOC</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Rocks
Around The Clock – Official Guinness World Record holders for longest game</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Dustin Mikush - Optimist U18 Champions</li>
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Those are just some of the highlights of a wonderful season for
all of our #HardlineNation teams! We
apologize if we have forgotten to include some (let us know and we’ll add it to
the list). </div>
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Whether a pro curler winning
a national or provincial championship or Slam event, or a recreational curler
winning a club championship or fun bonspiel, we appreciate the support you give
Hardline Curling, and the trust you put into playing with our equipment. We will continue to strive to provide all
curlers with the best possible curling equipment to help you reach your curling
objectives! Have a great summer, and we’ll see you in the
Fall of 2016!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-77221431152514493462016-04-29T08:55:00.000-07:002016-04-29T10:25:55.777-07:00Hardline Curling Response to Sweeping ControversyWith the curling season coming to an end, Hardline Curling would like to respond to articles written and opinions given in recent weeks, and ask a few questions ourselves.<br />
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In Don Landry’s article “What to do about the broom? Top skips weigh in on curling's possible sweeping solutions”, he interviews several skips asking their thoughts on what should be done about the broom/sweeping issue.<br />
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In it, Niklas Edin mentions Hardline by name, saying that their team had a poor record against Hardline teams. We felt we needed to respond to this. It is unfortunate that Edin infers that the Hardline icePad is the reason for their poor record against Hardline teams. 2014-15 was the first year we had top men’s teams playing with the icePad Pro cover – McEwen, Carruthers, Shuster. In the 2015-16 season, we added Gushue and Laycock in the top 10 teams. Going back and comparing Edin’s record against these teams before they used Hardline icePad clearly shows that Edin had a poor record versus Hardline sponsored teams way before they ever joined Hardline. <br />
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Another team that has been a strong opponent of the icePad is Team Ulsrud. Looking at their record against Hardline top men’s teams, Team Ulsrud was 3W-20L before our players joined Hardline and 1W-3L after. Are Edin and Ulsrud really saying it is the fault of the equipment for their poor performance vs Hardline players playing with the icePad? <br />
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Team by team, it is the same story. Let us take another example. Team Jacobs’ records versus our top men’s teams:<br />
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Pre-Hardline:<br />
vs McEwen: 4-6, vs Gushue: 2-4, vs Laycock: 5-3<br />
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With Hardline:<br />
vs. McEwen: 5-7, vs Gushue: 2-4, vs Laycock: 4-1, vs Carruthers: 6-4.<br />
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Not much difference in the records. It is a shame when certain teams say there is a huge advantage with Hardline, when the statistics do not indicate this at all. You can see the head to head statistics at the end of this blog. The line in the picture indicates when players switched to Hardline. For those teams who claimed Hardline had an unfair advantage using the icePad, perhaps you should have played with it yourself since it was available to anybody. For any team to claim that you lost the game before it began because of the icePad is not only misleading, but disrespecting those teams who have beaten you consistently way before they even used an icePad and who have committed and sacrificed to be one of the best at this great game.<br />
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Since the fall of 2015, Hardline and Hardline athletes, whether at the pro level, or recreational, have undergone character attacks, blaming first the icePad Pro fabric, “directional fabric”. Our teams were called “cheaters” for using the brooms. A small group of players did not like the icePad Pro, so they launched a campaign to tarnish our reputation, with one company bringing out their own “Blackhead” broom which “was to prove a point”. So a players’ agreement forced our teams to play with a new fabric. We scrambled to find a new fabric. A Goldline rep was kind enough to give us the name of the manufacturer and we went with that fabric, which became the Tour Elite. We did not think there would be any concerns because this same fabric was used back in 2010 on the older Goldline pads. So the same players who now are opponents of this fabric actually played with the very same fabric in years past. And since then, Goldline is using a more waterproof fabric on their Norway pad that is currently accepted as “legal”. <br />
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When we received the fabric and felt it, it was noticeably more abrasive and rougher than the icePad Pro fabric. It was mind-boggling to say the least, but we went with it for the sake of our teams. Don Landry reported in his article that it was said that this fabric we were given is less abrasive than the fabric that was restricted (icePad Pro cover), but yet still aggressive in nature. Well, we polled over 50 curlers, and had them feel each fabric and each cover, and 100% of the curlers said the fabric we were given was more abrasive than the icePad Pro cover. We are not fabric experts and this may very well not be the case, but any layman could see that the fabric that was supposed to be “legal” was more abrasive than the Pro cover. <br />
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When our teams continued to win with the inverted Pro fabric, it had to be something else with the brush, so the next step was to target the plastic insert. Teams then complained that the plastic insert was too much and caused the rocks to move against the laws of physics. However, there was a player experiment done at the Masters in Truro in October 2015 stating that the icePad with inverted fabric and the plastic insert performed similar as other manufacturers’ brooms. Edin even did testing with Reid Carruthers on the inverted fabric with insert and also agreed it performed similarly to other pads. It was based on his recommendation that the plastic insert and inverted Pro cover was even accepted as an alternative at the time. There was also testing done by the players in Oshawa at the National Slam where it was shown again that the icePad with insert did not back up rocks and it did not cause damage to the ice so as to impact the next shot. We have this report in our hands. So why was the plastic insert banned? We still do not have an answer even after months of demanding answers from the WCF and Curling Canada, but we believe it is because certain teams complained loud enough and the governing bodies agreed to it. We still have yet to see any proof or evidence from the governing bodies that the plastic insert had any adverse effect on the ice or shot-making.<br />
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Then on November 18, 2015, after weeks of silence, the WCF came out with their moratorium on brushes. Essentially, the icePad Pro cover, and “hardening or stiffening inserts” were restricted at Elite Play. Recreational curlers were still free to use the icePad Pro. But that did not happen. Certain leagues and associations enforced this brush ban – the icePad Pro ban – which was unfortunate and went totally against the moratorium.<br />
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After the moratorium came in, the new fabric is in play and the plastic insert is out, and yet our teams continue to win events. The governing bodies then came out with a moratorium to ban hair brushes, a product that has been a staple in curling for the last 30 years. Our teams continued to play well and win events. <br />
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Can we finally put to rest that it is not the fabric or the plastic insert? The plastic insert or the fabric is not making non-Hardline teams shoot mid 90s for the last 3 months. What else can it be?<br />
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What everyone is trying to avoid talking about is the sweeping technique. In August and September 2015, Team Gushue determined through hours and hours of practice and actual game play, that employing only ONE sweeper was more effective than using two sweepers, almost 20% more effective. They discovered that using two sweepers actually counter-acted what sweeping was trying to achieve. They were ridiculed, and were accused of cheating and going against the ethics of curling, and because they switched to Hardline icePad, naturally our brooms were to blame as well. Fast forward 3 months and 99% of teams are now using the one sweeper method and all the teams have seen shooting percentages skyrocket no matter what brooms they use. Team Gushue should be applauded for being sweeping pioneers.<br />
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It is Hardline’s position that this entire sweeping issue has to do with sweeping technique and not the fabric or the icePad insert. The plastic insert should be reinstated immediately and the icePad Pro fabric should be brought back. Why, after 30+ years in play, were hair brushes banned? What changed from last year, when it was ok to use, to this year?<br />
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What changed from last year to this year, when teams call the world curling championships the “world carving championships”? You never heard the “carving” term being used before February 2016, especially with regards to the icePad Pro with insert. And remember this new fabric was given to us by a Goldline rep! Our competitors began to use the same fabric on their own brooms, forcing the WCF to alter the moratorium to allow them to use that fabric. The moratorium also stated that brush heads must be available for retail sale to the public as of Nov 18, 2015, but we could not help but notice teams were playing recently with a new head that is not available to the general public. That is because the governing bodies altered the moratorium once again. This is just another example of the governing bodies making exceptions.<br />
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In the Don Landry article, there is mention of scratching the ice. The truth is everything puts micro-scratches on the ice. All brushes - the icePad, the Norway, the EQ – all brushes. An old pad that has not been changed for 100 games will put micro-scratches on the ice and will still be able to manipulate rocks. A cornbroom scratches the ice. The curling rock even scratches the ice! The micro-scratches created are invisible to the naked eye and can only be seen with special microscopes.<br />
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The problem is the message about scratching the ice. Is scratching the ice actually damaging the ice? The answer is no. Damaging the ice is what the “Blackhead” did at Stu Sells Toronto. When you cannot make a shot because your rock is in a trough, then that is damaging the ice. Curling Canada performed testing in Oshawa with the players, to see for themselves about the icePad. The icePad with insert did not back up rocks, nor did it damage the ice to affect the next shot. But the icePad and insert was still banned. We are still wondering why? <br />
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Some players have suggested finding a fabric that will not put micro scratches on the ice. The fact is every fabric with any type of weave will leave micro scratches and players will be able to manipulate rocks with the current sweeping technique. We have searched for a non-abrasive fabric ourselves but could not find anything that will not put micro scratches on the ice and not make players manipulate shots. Has the WCF or Curling Canada taken the time to find this fabric?<br />
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We challenge anyone to find a woven fabric that will not leave micro scratches on the ice where players will not be able to manipulate a shot with current sweeping techniques. If someone does find a fabric like this, we are fairly certain all manufacturers will be happy to put it on. There will be a sweeping summit to determine what is and isn’t acceptable. The WCF and Curling Canada have announced a Sweeping Summit, however have yet to confirm a date. In their statement, the WCF said a decision will not be ratified until September 2016, right at the start of the curling season. How is it fair for manufacturers to plan for the next season when a decision is reached in September 2016, after the season has already started?<br />
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Some players in the article commented that they do not want to change sweeping technique. This was an “eyebrow raiser” for us. Only Brad Gushue and David Murdoch addressed certain sweeping techniques need to change. All the other players were ok with the corner sweeping and snow-ploughing. The players all know that the problem is with sweeping, but no one wants change because they say it is too hard to police. If the players really want to go back to the old way and not manipulate rocks anymore, then the only solution is to change the sweeping technique. And if a material does exist where rocks are not being manipulated with the new sweeping techniques, then let us know.<br />
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When push brooms came into play in the 1980s, it was a new innovation that changed the game. Players were able to manipulate rocks however they wanted by corner sweeping. What happened next? Ask any curler old enough to remember. The governing bodies put rules in place to ban corner sweeping and not the brooms. And then what happened? Everybody stopped corner sweeping. Why? It was because it was in the rules of curling. The players respected the rules. Players respected each other. But most important, the players respected the game. We do not remember any issues regarding sweeping violations in any event prior to this year. To say the players of today could not respect new rules about sweeping is simply too hard to believe. Back in the day, there was no need for on ice officials for sweeping. Were there any problems back when there were sweeping rules? No. Did players respect the sweeping rules? Yes. Were there officials calling out players who swept wrong, like at this year’s world championships? No. <br />
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We just do not understand why the players will not enforce sweeping rules by themselves. It is just like dumping in front of a rock to slow it down. It is against the spirit of curling, and no one does it. If a rule is in place that no corner sweeping or snow-ploughing is allowed, then why wouldn’t players adhere to the rules? Is this not “the game of sportsmanship”? Enact sweeping rules and there would be no need for a ban on brushes, except for brushes that damage the ice.<br />
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There have been several rule change experiments in recent Grand Slam events. We feel these rule changes are acceptable. Why weren’t these rules put in place in October/November, instead of an outright ban of the icePad insert and Pro cover? For the elite curlers, all of this sweeping controversy could have been avoided if the governing bodies tried these experiments, instead of an outright ban. Enact rules for only two sweeping brushes per event, and color code a left side broom, and right side broom or to make it even simpler – one brush per player and no changing sides. You would still be able to use the one sweeper method and no brushes would need to be banned. The decision making of the governing bodies has been extremely suspect since the controversy began – changing rules on the fly, putting a moratorium in place, only to change it to allow other manufacturers to bring in new products. <br />
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There is a lot on the line. Enforce the sweeping rules for no corner sweeping, no snow-ploughing, and only sweeping across the face of the stone. There would be no need to restrict any brooms, inserts, or fabrics, or hair brooms, unless to the point of damaging the ice like the “Blackhead” did at Stu Sells Toronto. The tour players all know the real problem is not the brush fabric or the insert, but the lack of sweeping rules. Who will be the bold one to stand up and say, ''It IS the sweeping. Let us fix this, and play by the rules, for the spirit of curling''. We hope there will be players who have the integrity to address the real issue of sweeping with all curling brushes.<br />
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We are afraid our statements will fall on deaf ears. If enacting sweeping rules are indeed not going to be looked at, then we implore the WCF and Curling Canada to let us know what fabric will be accepted and we will have no issues using it. BUT, a decision must be finalized in MAY 2016 to allow manufacturers time during the off-season to prepare for the 2016-17 season and comply with the selected fabric. A final decision in September is totally unacceptable. It has been a very frustrating season of curling, but Hardline Curling still holds out hope that the right decision will be made.<br />
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If certain players want to continue the smear campaign, against players that have chosen to use the icePad, and question the integrity of these athletes and our products, it would be best if solid evidence were presented to back up your claims. Hardline is proud of athletes that play with our gear and support them 100%. They have demonstrated an incredible amount of integrity this past year, through all the slander that has been thrown their way. Their success is due to the incredible amount of hard work, dedication and sacrifice they have given this great game. For anyone to suggest that their success is due to better equipment, is not only an insult to Hardline athletes, but it is an insult to the integrity of the game.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-18259766575260448282015-11-23T13:28:00.003-08:002015-11-23T13:28:57.764-08:00Hardline Curling Brush Update - November 23rd, 2015<div>
Since we opened in 2010, Hardline Curling has built its business on the foundation of one core value - Integrity. Whether dealing with customers, pro-shops, players, the equipment we sell, or the game, our integrity has never been and will never be compromised.</div>
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Over the last 2 months, Hardline and those who use its products have been unfairly targeted by groundless accusations and harmful insinuations with respect to the innovative and successful Hardline icePad curling brush. These accusations have compromised the integrity and trust of not only our company, but of those who play with our gear, whether they are elite or recreational club curlers.</div>
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Hardline Curling will no longer sit quiet. Whether it’s on social media or our blog, we will answer those who are failing to give the straight facts. We receive countless emails and calls supporting us, and we owe it to everyone who has put their faith and hard earned dollars into our gear.</div>
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Concerning recent WCF rulings, it is important to note that the Hardline icePad is not banned as some have claimed. There are two modifications (inverting the cover and removing the plastic insert) that have to be made for approval in WCF events only, but the icePad is not banned. In fact, our teams playing in the European championships continue to play with an approved version of the icePad. </div>
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We have been in contact with the WCF concerning equipment. We have made a number of recommendations that would be fair for all suppliers. We have asked the WCF to set parameters as to what is acceptable in terms of performance of brush heads before testing begins. We have asked that Hardline representatives be present for all testing. We have asked what and how tests will be conducted. We have asked Curling Canada to provide all testing data from previous years so we can compare to present day testing. All of our requests have been denied without explanation.</div>
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Our recommendations to the WCF even included taking out all intellectual property from suppliers’ pads, with the WCF choosing the fabric. For example, no plastic insert of the icePad, no foil in the Balance Plus pad, no ridges in the Goldline, Asham and Performance pads. Straight fabric on foam. Our opinion is this would ensure fair play for everyone at the Elite level. The WCF did not respond to our recommendation. While it is an extreme and in our view unnecessary measure, this would ensure fair play if all inserts were removed.</div>
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The WCF’s most recent ruling was to take out a part of the icePad’s intellectual property, the plastic insert. The WCF have stated that their decision was based on preliminary test results. We have asked for all the data concerning these tests and the results. Again, the WCF has refused to send us any of this data. </div>
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Hardline believes the WCF has made these recent decisions based on a flawed process and without having concluded all testing required to reach a fair and equitable conclusion. Hardline has engaged legal counsel to, among other things, push for full and complete transparency behind the WCF’s decision-making and to enforce Hardline’s rights as an innovative and hard-working manufacturer. </div>
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We stated long ago that any decisions reached should involve all the major stakeholders including players, associations and manufacturers, coming to a decision together regarding what the guidelines should be and what the testing will include going forward. We have also stated that once all the guidelines are set on what is or is not acceptable, an independent testing facility should conduct testing on all products with players and representatives from each stakeholder to oversee all the testing. All results should immediately be given to all stakeholders. This is the only way to ensure a transparent process and optimal solution for all stakeholders.</div>
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For the last 4 years, Hardline has manufactured top of the line and innovate equipment without complaint. The recent spate of complaints and accusations are unfounded and damaging to Hardline. Despite making several requests, we have been provided with no evidence to support these exaggerated allegations, such as reports that the icePad makes rocks “move like a joystick”. We have been sent no evidence because we believe none exists. There is no truth to these allegations. </div>
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Hardline will continue to strive to provide excellent customer service, out-innovate, and out-perform the competition. We are not going away. We are Hardline Nation.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-69070598813895884932015-11-18T14:12:00.001-08:002015-11-18T14:16:58.426-08:00Hardline Curling Press Release Nov 18, 2015 - Response to WCF MoratoriumHardline Curling Press Release November 18, 2015<br />
Response to WCF Moratorium for remainder of 2015/16 Season<br />
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Regarding the moratorium being imposed by the World Curling Federation for all WCF events for the remainder of the 2015/16 season, Hardline Curling disagrees with this decision. We have asked the WCF to see the reports that have led to this decision. We were promised transparency in all testing, and this was assured to us from day one. We have not yet received any test results or how tests were administered, or what pads were tested. We feel this decision has been hastily reached without sufficient and proper independent testing.<br />
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<b>Foremost, it must be made clear that this decision reached by the WCF does not affect recreational or house league club play, or recreational open bonspiels. It is only for World Curling Federation events. Recreational and club players, and non-WCF events including open and fun bonspiels, are still permitted to play with the Hardline icePad in its current form with the Pro cover and plastic insert, and we encourage all our supporters to continue playing with the best curling brush ever designed in your club leagues, recreational play, and fun bonspiels. </b><br />
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<b>In fact, we encourage all our Hardline Curling and icePad supporters to write the World Curling Federation and show your support of the icePad and oppose this decision.</b><br />
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Our professional Hardline Curling teams and players have been subject to non-stop bullying and accusations of cheating in recent weeks from their opponents, when our teams have done everything to conform to player agreements and the WCF interim decision of November 6th, 2015. Hardline Curling feels this is bullying at its ugliest form, and goes against the ideals of curling sportsmanship, and it has to stop.<br />
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This targeting of the Hardline icePad and its teams has been way overblown by a small but vocal minority of teams and our competitors. First, we were accused of having "directional fabric", which has been since proven we do not. Our teams inverted the icePad cover which was agreed upon as an acceptable solution. Our teams continued to perform well and win events. Then the treated finish of the icePad cover was brought into question, and when players realized it is not the fabric, a decision is now being made to remove the plastic insert, which by the way was also utilized by other suppliers in their brush heads. The truth is it is none of these factors. What will be attacked next? When will our accusers understand that it is talent, good shot-making, and effective sweeping techniques that help them win games and events? Testing has confirmed that all brushes with proper sweeping techniques can achieve the same so-called disputed results. If this is the case, then why is the icePad still being targeted?<br />
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To our detractors who say we are not co-operating, Hardline Curling has had discussions with the WCF and provided them with several options for an equitable standard for elite level competition, including removing all inserts – plastic inserts, foil, foam ridges – and just have an accepted fabric against a cushion or foam. It is unfortunate that none of these solutions have been adopted, because we feel that it would provide the proper standard and equal playing field that is being requested, which is what everyone is striving for.<br />
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Hardline Curling intends to continue to pursue all options available to us to have the icePad reinstated without exception, through proper independent testing. We will do what is necessary to protect the intellectual property of the icePad and have it approved for play, all the while continuing to provide our elite teams with the equipment necessary that conforms to the ever-changing regulations to help them perform at their best.<br />
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We thank all of our supporters during this time for your continued support. Your emails, phone calls, and social media messages provide us the strength to continue moving forward. We continue to be hopeful for a fair and equitable resolution in the near future.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-42275871936469281462015-11-01T22:06:00.000-08:002015-11-01T22:09:14.498-08:00WEEK # 9 to 11 UPDATE – TEAM HARDLINE CONTINUES TO WIN<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">It’s been
an interesting last couple of weeks in the curling world. We thank you all for your emails, tweets,
phone calls and texts of support for Hardline and the icePad. It is very much appreciated! We’re hoping cooler heads will prevail, and a
decision will be made shortly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">But for
now, let’s get back to some great results for Team Hardline!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><b><u>Week # 9</u></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">The big
event in men’s play was in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Portage</st1:city>
<st1:state w:st="on">MB</st1:state></st1:place> for the Canad Inns Curling
Classic. It featured several Hardline
teams in action, including Steve Laycock, Reid Carruthers, and Charley Thomas
who all qualified for playoffs. Mike
McEwen, 2 time defending champion and 4 of the last 5 years surprised everyone by
not qualifying for playoffs for the first time since joining Team
Hardline. Laycock defeated Carruthers in
one quarterfinal, while Thomas defeated Morozumi of Japan to also reach
semis. Laycock then beat Thomas in that
semi final and went on to claim their first win with Hardline defeating Kevin
Koe in the finals! Congrats Team Steve
Laycock!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: x-small; text-align: left;">(Matt Hermiz/TheGraphic/Postmedia Network)</span></td></tr>
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In <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Kamloops</st1:place></st1:city>, Team Dean
Joanisse continued their great play reaching the finals of the Hub
International Crown of Curling, defeating Kim of South Korea, and Jim Cotter to
get there. In the finals, they lost to
Sean Geall by a close 5-4 score! </div>
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<span lang="EN-US">In women’s
play, Team Allison Flaxey reached the finals of the Stroud Sleeman Cash Spiel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><b><u>Week # 10</u></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Week # 10
action saw the top men’s teams playing in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Gatineau</st1:city>
<st1:state w:st="on">QC</st1:state></st1:place>, including one of the hottest
teams this year Team Brad Gushue.
Surprisingly, many of the top favorites did not qualify for playoffs,
including Edin, Simmons, and Murdoch.
Team Gushue ran the table going a perfect 7-0 to win their 4<sup>th</sup>
event of the season! Congrats Team
Gushue!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: x-small; text-align: left;">Team Gushue (Photo Challenge Chateau Cartier Facebook page)</span></td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US">In <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Red Deer</st1:city> <st1:state w:st="on">AB</st1:state></st1:place>,
the Red Deer Curling Classic was played, and teams Dean Joanisse and Charley
Thomas both reached the quarterfinals.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">In Champery
SUI, Team Peter De Cruz qualified for playoffs in the Champery Masters event,
losing in the quarterfinals.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">In women’s
action, the Canad Inns Women’s Classic was played in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Portage</st1:city> <st1:state w:st="on">MB</st1:state></st1:place>, and
teams Kristy McDonald and Kerri Einarson reached the quarterfinals, and Tracy
Fleury made it to the semi finals! Great playing by all!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">In <st1:city w:st="on">Red Deer</st1:city> <st1:state w:st="on">AB</st1:state> at the Red
Deer Classic, <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Kalynn</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Park</st1:placetype></st1:place> reached the
quarterfinals, while teams Chelsea Carey and Nadine Chyz both reached the semi
finals! A nice showing for our teams.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">In <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Moncton</st1:city> <st1:state w:st="on">NB</st1:state></st1:place>,
Team Theresa Breen were finalists of the Lady Monctonian Invitational.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><b><u>Week # 11</u></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Week # 11 had
all eyes watching the GSOC Masters in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Truro</st1:city>
<st1:state w:st="on">NS</st1:state></st1:place>. The top 15 men’s and women’s teams were
placed in 3 groups of 5 for round robin play.
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<span lang="EN-US">In men’s
play, defending champion Team Brad Gushue went 4-0 and secured their spot in
the playoffs. Team Mike McEwen went 3-1
and also secured their spot. Team Reid
Carruthers finished 2-2 and qualified direct to the quarter finals with a good
shootout score. Team Steve Laycock also
finished 2-2, but had to play Glenn Howard in a tiebreaker, and defeated them
to reach the quarterfinals.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">In the
quarterfinals, it was 2 Hardline battles, with Gushue playing Laycock, and
McEwen playing Carruthers. In the 4<sup>th</sup>
end of the Gushue v Laycock quarterfinal, Brad Gushue slipped and fell face first
onto the ice, suffering a cut just above the eye. It was a very scary situation and play on all
4 sheets came to a stop. Thankfully, he was
ok. He was taken to hospital for
stitches, while the rest of the team played 3 players. Laycock continued his great play, and Gushue returned
in the 7<sup>th</sup> end, but in the end, Laycock won by a 5-2 score. In the other Hardline battle, McEwen
defeated Carruthers by a 7-4 score.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">In the semi
finals, Laycock faced a tough Jim Cotter team and went down to defeat by an 8-3
score. In the other semi final, McEwen
faced Kevin Koe, with McEwen scoring a big 3 in the 6<sup>th</sup> end to take
a 5-3 lead. In the 7<sup>th</sup> end,
McEwen made two great shots to remove all of Koe’s rocks in the house, which
led to a blank end. In the 8<sup>th</sup>,
with time running short for both teams, Koe released his rock with 1 second
left on their time clock, but missed his shot to score 2, and McEwen took home
the victory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">In the
finals, McEwen scored a big deuce in the 6<sup>th</sup> end, and then forced
Cotter to take one in the 7<sup>th</sup> end.
In the 8<sup>th</sup> end, McEwen calmly drew to the 4 foot against two counters,
and took home the Masters trophy for their 3<sup>rd</sup> win this year, and 6<sup>th</sup>
GSOC title of their career.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Ddpt74g0KEPSOJD6_TcjVV9jbYeGobRIStsZbid7Nk6CiDIdWGTOOEJubnn1THcuCZ1ydPVfMdUgm51o91yMjY7II3DHsoIfSizv9Jj5Ui3pMXVM-aWLXcbP7pR2WFl5CueeBVJ2MeU/s1600/mcewen_team1280-640x360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Ddpt74g0KEPSOJD6_TcjVV9jbYeGobRIStsZbid7Nk6CiDIdWGTOOEJubnn1THcuCZ1ydPVfMdUgm51o91yMjY7II3DHsoIfSizv9Jj5Ui3pMXVM-aWLXcbP7pR2WFl5CueeBVJ2MeU/s400/mcewen_team1280-640x360.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: x-small; text-align: start;">Photo Anil Mungal - GSOC</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="background: black; color: white; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 5.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="background: black; color: white; font-family: "arial";"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">In women’s
action, Silvana Tirinzoni and Kristy McDonald both finished with 3-1 round
robin records and qualified for playoffs.
Tirinzoni faced Kerri Einarson in the quarterfinals, and it was an
exciting high scoring game, but in the end, Einarson won by a 10-7 score. McDonald faced hometown favorite Mary Anne
Arsenault in another quarterfinal winning 5-2 to reach the semi finals. In the semis, skip Kristy McDonald came down
with the flu and was unable to play.
Kate Cameron assumed skip duties and the team played with 3 players against
Team Homan. They gave it a valiant
effort, but Homan eventually won the game 8-5. Congrats to all Team Hardline for their great
play at The Masters.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">In other
men’s action, in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Sarnia</st1:city> <st1:state w:st="on">ON</st1:state></st1:place>, Team John Shuster captured the Huron
RepoGraphics Oil Heritage Classic, continuing their strong play! In <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Medicine
Hat</st1:city> <st1:state w:st="on">AB</st1:state></st1:place>, Hardline
supporters Shaun Meachem won the Medicine Hat Charity Classic, Jason Jacobson reaching
semis, and team Peter De Cruz made the quarterfinals.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">In women’s
action, Team Jacqueline Harrison captured the Gord Carroll Curling Classic for
their 2<sup>nd</sup> win of the season!
Well played ladies! Team Allison
Flaxey also qualified for playoffs, reaching the quarterfinals. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Hardline WIN
Count after Week # 11: 21<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Brad Gushue
– Stu Sells <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Oakville</st1:place></st1:city><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Silvana
Tirinzoni – GSOC Tour Challenge Tier 1<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Kerri
Einarson – GSOC Tour Challenge Tier 2<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Jacqueline
Harrison – OCT <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Oakville</st1:place></st1:city>
Fall Classic<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Brad Gushue
– AMJ <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Campbell</st1:place></st1:city>
Shorty Jenkins Classic<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Shaun
Meachem – HDF Insurance Shootout<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Dean
Joanisse – Cloverdale Cashspiel<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Mike McEwen
- Point Optical Curling Classic<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Allison
Flaxey - KW Fall Curling Classic<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Michelle
Monford - Mother Club Curling Classic<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Theresa
Breen - <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Appleton</st1:place></st1:city>
Rum Cashspiel<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Tyler Tardi
- Anita Cochrane Memorial Junior Cash<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Brad Gushue
- Swiss Cup <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Basel</st1:place></st1:city><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Mike McEwen
- Stu Sells <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Toronto</st1:place></st1:city><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Tyler Tardi
- Abbotsford Junior Cashspiel<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Steve
Laycock – Canad Inns Men’s Classic<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Brad Gushue
– Challenge Chateau Cartier <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Gatineau</st1:place></st1:city><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Mike McEwen
– GSOC Masters<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">John
Shuster – Huron ReproGraphics Oil Heritage Classic<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Shaun
Meachem – <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Medicine Hat</st1:place></st1:city>
Charity Classic<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Jacqueline
Harrison – Gord Carroll Curling Classic<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-41196316301552247712015-10-18T13:29:00.000-07:002015-10-21T09:40:02.132-07:00TO THE PLAYERS<div class="MsoNormal">
TO PLAYERS WHO SIGNED PLAYERS AGREEMENT:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Last week, a new pad was introduced at the Stu Sells that
had directional fabric, to prove a point that directional fabrics take
away from the spirit of the game. The “Blackhead” brushes by our competitor were
not only able to manipulate rocks far beyond reasonable expectations of a
rock’s natural path, but they also damaged the ice to such an extent as to make
it almost impossible to give opposing players the ability to make shots. These
“Blackhead” brushes were NEVER intended to be sold.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Players using “Blackhead” brushes were asked to not use
these brushes by the players at that event. Their response was that if they had
to remove them from the game, then Hardline teams had to stop using the icePad fabric. Hardline teams, after receiving significant
pressure from all the other players, agreed that the “Blackhead” brush has no
place in the game, and agreed to these demands, for the good of the game. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since then, a player-driven agreement was sent for teams to
sign, restricting directional fabric for use in games from the WCT and Grand
Slams. Top teams signed the agreement, including Hardline teams. The player agreement clearly states no single
manufacturer or supplier is being targeted.
So then why was an ultimatum given to ONLY our Hardline teams not to
play with the icePad cover as recently as this weekend? Somehow, the icePad has also been targeted
for having directional fabric. The fabric on the icePad is NOT a directional
fabric. Hardline does not know how many times we can repeat the same thing. THE
ICEPAD DOES NOT HAVE DIRECTIONAL FABRIC!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We believe you signed this player agreement and were misled
into believing the icePad cover falls into the category of restricted fabrics,
a self imposed “rule” by players. The
fabric on the icePad fabric has been used for the last 3 years at ALL levels of
play. It is not “new” fabric. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This player agreement is a knee-jerk reaction to restrict
directional fabric and we agree that directional fabric should be outlawed as
we stated previously. But the underlying
intention is a blatant attempt by one of our competitors to discredit us due to
an erosion in their market share. Some
players have refused to sign the agreement for the simple reason of not knowing
what they are signing. What is directional fabric? Other teams have refused to sign the agreement
understanding the baseless nature of an attack towards Hardline. Other players, namely Hardline teams, signed
the agreement so as to not be open to criticism by their peers. This is pure
bullying by certain non-Hardline players towards Hardline players. Either stop
using the icePad or "be looked down upon". </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are too many questions to be answered before a proper decision
can be made. There has been no due
process. The Hardline icePad has been
essentially found guilty without due process.
Why is that? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Hardline icePad cover has been played at all levels of
play, from recreational to elite level, the last 3 years. Never once has there
been a complaint. The “Blackhead” brush was used at one WCT event. After the
first day, the number of complaints was staggering. All players were against
this brush. How can one compare one established product which has never had a
complaint in 4 years to another brush that was introduced and HAD COMPLAINTS
FROM THE MOMENT IT WAS USED?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TO THE PLAYERS: We believe you have been misled into
believing the icePad fabric belongs on the same restricted list as the “Blackhead’
brush. We ask you to remove this restriction on the icePad, and start asking
questions to those responsible, and know all the facts. The integrity of due
process, and your own integrity, should not be compromised. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
At Hardline, our integrity, and our reputation, as well as
every Hardline athlete, from Pro, to 1st year curler, will not be compromised
by the few who have a secret agenda. The truth about corporate bullying will
come out shortly. Anybody who has ever seen, bought, played against an icePad
knows the players assertions about directional fabric on the icePad are
baseless and without merit. It is up to you to know that you have every right
to leave your name on the list, as long as you are informed about what you
signed. Integrity of the game, as well as your own integrity, are both at
stake. We ask you to do the right thing – remove any restriction on the
icePad. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-31741518269687969092015-10-15T13:29:00.001-07:002015-10-21T09:38:51.462-07:00HARDLINE CURLING PRESS RELEASE - OCTOBER 15TH, 2015Since 2010, Hardline Curling has been in business to serve the curling community and provide curlers with the most innovative curling equipment. In 2012 we introduced the icePad, considered by many the most technologically advanced curling brush ever invented. Before we started selling the icePad in 2012, Hardline Curling submitted it to Curling Canada for testing to get approval. Every year since, we have co-operated with Curling Canada to have the icePad tested, and never once, has there been any negative feedback concerning directional-fabric or ice damage. In the last four years, the icePad has been played with at all Curling Canada and World Curling Federation events including the Canada Cup, Scotties, Brier and World men’s/mixed fours/mixed doubles/seniors. Never once have there been any negative comments about ice damage or directional-fabric issues. The icePad has been using the same fabric since 2013.<br />
<br />
Since 2012, thousands of recreational and elite level curlers have chosen to play with and enjoy the many benefits of the icePad. In 2014, two high profile elite teams – Mike McEwen and Reid Carruthers – chose the icePad and both teams had highly successful seasons. Since then, dozens of other elite teams have chosen to play with the icePad and even more teams have approached us for sponsorship. All icePad players have raved about the effectiveness of the icePad.<br />
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In recent weeks there has been an elite-level-player movement to remove so-called “directional-fabric” brushes from the elite-level of play only, including, unfairly, the icePad. Some claim that with the power of elite-level sweepers, they have the ability to direct the curling stone, or control it like a “joystick.” This group has brought some unwarranted claims that anyone playing with the icePad has an unfair advantage.<br />
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First, we strongly disagree that the icePad cover has directional-fabric. Our fabric is diamond-shaped and not uni-directional. Second, we further disagree with the term “unfair advantage.” “Unfair” would indicate that the icePad is not playing within the rules of curling, which is not true! “Unfair” would mean that not everyone could play with it when, in fact, the icePad is available for anyone to use and play with. However, if one chooses not to play with it that is their choice.<br />
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Part of this player movement is to enact regulations on what brush fabrics are acceptable. Since there are no regulations for fabrics currently in place, and the icePad was approved for play based on today’s rules on equipment, how can anyone claim our fabric is unfair? The icePad DOES NOT damage or alter the ice in a significant way! In fact, one of our primary marketing messages for years has been that OUR COVERS DAMAGE THE ICE LESS than any of the other fabrics currently on the market.<br />
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At the last WCT event in Toronto, a few select teams came out with an extremely abrasive directional fabric that damaged the ice to the extent that opposing players were unable to make shots. We believe that this abrasive brush went against the rules of curling and was used only to try and prove a point against Hardline Curling and the icePad. From the Curling Canada Rules for General Play for the 2014-2018 season, from article 15, section 1: “A player shall not use footwear or equipment that may damage or affect the playing quality of the ice surface.” This is exactly what this new fabric did and therefore IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN DEEMED ILLEGAL and been removed from play.<br />
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Hardline Curling believes that all of this trumped-up controversy has been engineered by a small group of players, acting on behalf of their equipment supplier in order to stop the loss of its market share to Hardline. This is nothing other than corporate bullying. We believe that the laws of this country afford us the right to compete in a fair and open marketplace. In fact, Hardline loves competition. We believe that if equipment companies have the innovative ideas to put out equipment that stays within the scope of the rules, then this can only help grow the sport. Since the 1990's, there have been two major changes in brush technology: the introduction of the oval swivel head brush and the icePad. <br />
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If it was felt that the icePad provided an unfair advantage, why were these issues not brought up in the last three years when the icePad has been on tour? Why was this not brought up during the off-season in order to give suppliers a fair chance to adhere to acceptable standards to the elite players? Why should Hardline have to incur extra costs to supply our players with replacements when we have done absolutely nothing wrong? WHY DID CERTAIN TEAMS ON THE CURL CANADA LETTER APPROACH US FOR SPONSORSHIP THIS PAST SUMMER IF THEY THOUGHT THAT THE ICEPAD WAS AN ISSUE?<br />
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We are in full agreement that “directional-fabric” brushes to control stones have no place in the game of curling at the elite level. We believe that the WCF should hire an independent organization that has no affiliations with any equipment supplier. Parameters should be set as to what is and is not acceptable. Equipment suppliers should be allowed to be present for all testing. Equipment suppliers should be given access to all data acquired during testing. We want any future rule changes to be fair with no bias towards one supplier over another.<br />
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This has been a huge distraction to all elite teams, but especially to our Hardline teams who have taken unwarranted criticism when they have done absolutely nothing wrong within the current rules of play. To question the integrity of Hardline athletes who use the icePad is totally unacceptable.<br />
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Hardline also wishes to clarify the fact that the icePad is still approved at all levels of play, whether you are a club curler, Junior, Senior, Master and at all Provincial, National and World events.<br />
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Hardline Curling has received tremendous support over the last few difficult days. The support is very much appreciated, and the vast majority of curlers can see exactly what is happening here.<br />
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<br />
Archie Manavian<br />
Hardline Curling, President<br />
514-249-5258<br />
877-908-4273<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-59387241371244396362015-10-12T21:05:00.001-07:002015-10-12T21:21:08.073-07:00WEEK # 8 UPDATE - McEWEN WINS IN TORONTO!The top men's teams were in Toronto for the Stu Sells Toronto Tankard, including defending champions Reid Carruthers. Also in the top field were Gushue, Howard, Jacobs, Shuster, Edin and McEwen.<br />
There were several hard fought games, and after an A semis final loss, McEwen qualified for playoffs through the B event. In the C event, Gushue and Carruthers fought through and qualified for playoffs.<br />
In the end, McEwen defeated Glenn Howard in the finals by a score of 5-1. A great 2nd win of the season for Team McEwen.<br />
<br />
In Edmonton, the DHD Classic was played, with several top ranked teams from Western Canada, including Steve Laycock, Charley Thomas, and Kevin Koe. Both Laycock and Thomas reached the playoffs, with Thomas losing in the quarters, and Laycock reaching the semi finals before losing to eventual winner Kevin Koe.<br />
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On the ladies side, the Stu Sells Toronto featured several Hardline teams, with Jacqueline Harrison and Theresa Breen both qualifying for playoffs but both losing in the quarterfinals.<br />
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In Calgary, one of the top women's events was played - the Curlers Corner Autumn Gold Classic and featured several top women's teams including Homan, Jones, and Hardline's Chelsea Carey and Tracy Fleury. Both Carey and Fleury qualified for playoffs with Fleury going perfect 4-0 in the round robin, while Carey fought hard through the C event to qualify. Fleury lost to a strong Homan team in the quarterfinals, while Chelsea Carey made it to the finals defeating Michele Jaeggi and Val Sweeting to reach the finals, before losing to Rachel Homan. This makes back to back runner up finishes for Chelsea Carey's team! <br />
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Over in Switzerland, at the Women's Masters Basel, Team Silvana Tirinzoni continued their strong play this season, qualifying A side for playoffs, and defeating Hanah Fleming and Binia Feltscher to reach the finals against Anna Sidorova of Russia. With a 6-4 lead in the 8th end, Sidorova made an incredible shot to score 3 and win the game 7-6. A tough loss for Tirinzoni, but a fantastic weekend and the great play continues.<br />
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In St Paul MN, Team Courtney George reached the semi finals of the St Paul Cashspiel! Nice playing!<br />
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In BC, Team Tyler Tardi continues their great play by winning the Abbotsford Junior Cashspiel! They are definitely a force to be reckoned with!<br />
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<br />
Hardline WIN Count after Week # 8: 15<br />
<br />
Brad Gushue – Stu Sells Oakville<br />
Silvana Tirinzoni – GSOC Tour Challenge Tier 1<br />
Kerri Einarson – GSOC Tour Challenge Tier 2<br />
Jacqueline Harrison – OCT Oakville Fall Classic<br />
Brad Gushue – AMJ Campbell Shorty Jenkins Classic<br />
Shaun Meachem – HDF Insurance Shootout<br />
Dean Joanisse – Cloverdale Cashspiel<br />
Mike McEwen - Point Optical Curling Classic<br />
Allison Flaxey - KW Fall Curling Classic<br />
Michelle Monford - Mother Club Curling Classic<br />
Theresa Breen - Appleton Rum Cashspiel<br />
Tyler Tardi - Anita Cochrane Memorial Junior Cash<br />
Brad Gushue - Swiss Cup Basel<br />
Mike McEwen - Stu Sells Toronto<br />
Tyler Tardi - Abbotsford Junior Cashspiel<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-8840219845010834802015-10-12T20:10:00.001-07:002015-10-12T20:10:19.152-07:00WEEK # 7 UPDATE - GUSHUE WINS IN BASEL!One of the men's events on the WCT in week # 7 was the Swiss Cup Basel, and several top world men's teams were in the field including Murdoch, Brewster, Ulsrud, Casey, Kauste and Gushue. <div>
After losing their first game of the event, Gushue went on 8-0 run and won the event for their 3rd win of the year to go along with two finals.</div>
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<div>
In Vernon BC, Team Dean Joanisse continued their great start to the season with a finals result in the Prestige Hotels and Resorts Curling Classic. Joanisse had wins against Canadian champions Pat Simmons and BC champs Jim Cotter also. In the rematch in the finals against Pat Simmons took the title over Joanisse. Keep up the great play Team Joanisse!</div>
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On the women's side in the same event, Team Chelsea Carey continued their great play of late earning a finals result, losing to Stefanie Lawton of Saskatchewan. Another Hardline team, Team Kerri Einarson, also finished with a semi-finals results. Congrats ladies!</div>
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Hardline WIN Count after Week # 7: 13</div>
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Brad Gushue – Stu Sells Oakville</div>
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Silvana Tirinzoni – GSOC Tour Challenge Tier 1</div>
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Kerri Einarson – GSOC Tour Challenge Tier 2</div>
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Jacqueline Harrison – OCT Oakville Fall Classic</div>
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Brad Gushue – AMJ Campbell Shorty Jenkins Classic</div>
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Shaun Meachem – HDF Insurance Shootout</div>
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Dean Joanisse – Cloverdale Cashspiel</div>
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Mike McEwen - Point Optical Curling Classic</div>
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Allison Flaxey - KW Fall Curling Classic</div>
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Michelle Monford - Mother Club Curling Classic</div>
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Theresa Breen - Appleton Rum Cashspiel</div>
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Tyler Tardi - Anita Cochrane Memorial Junior Cash</div>
</div>
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Brad Gushue - Swiss Cup Basel</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-67620091683646635462015-09-28T20:47:00.001-07:002015-09-28T20:55:06.011-07:00WEEK # 6 UPDATE - MCEWEN WINS! 5 MORE WINS FOR ICEPAD!Week # 6 on the WCT was another great week for Hardline Curling and its teams!<br />
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The top men's event was the Point Optical Curling Classic in Saskatoon SK and featured several of the top 10 men's teams in the world. Several teams were playing the icePad. So many in fact that Mike McEwen tweeted out:<br />
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<i><b>Not so long ago our team was about the only ones, but WOW has it changed - am I in #icePadholyland ??? @POCC1 #ToonTown @HardlineCurling</b></i><br />
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In quarter final action, Steve Laycock defeated Charley Thomas, Reid Carruthers beat Bottcher, and Mike McEwen defeated John Shuster. Brad Jacobs defeated Niklas Edin in the other quarterfinal.<br />
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In the semis, Carruthers took 2 in the 8th end to defeat Laycock, and McEwen defeated Jacobs in the other, setting up an all Hardline final. <br />
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McEwen took an early 1-0 lead after one, and stole 1 in the 2nd and 3 in the 3rd to take a 5-0 lead, en route to an 8-4 win and the title and defend their win from last year. This was Team McEwen's first win of the year, after a semis result in their first event in Paradise NL. Congrats Mike and team, and to all Hardline teams!<br />
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In other action on the WCT:<br />
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In Kitchener, at the KW Fall Classic, Allison Flaxey continued her recent strong play. She defeated another Hardline team Jacqueline Harrison coming back from a early 4-0 deficit to win 6-5 in the quarters. In the semi finals, Flaxey stole the 8th end to defeat reigning Ontario champion Julie Hastings by the same 6-5 score. In the finals, Flaxey faced Erica Brown of the USA, and with two steals of 2 in the game, won by a score of 7-3 and the title! Congrats Team Flaxey!<br />
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In Winnipeg, at the Mother Club Fall Curling Classic, many of our top women's teams in Manitoba took part including Kristy McDonald, Kerri Einarson, Michelle Montford. McDonald reached the quarters, while Michelle Montford defeated Kerri Einarson in the semis, and went on to win the finals over 10-3 over Beth Peterson. Congrats to Team Michelle Montford!<br />
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In Lower Sackville, NS, Team Theresa Breen, Hardline supporters, won the Appleton Rum Cashspiel, defeating Shannon Tatlock 5-1 in the finals. It was the first event for Team Breen joining many teams who won their first event playing with the icePad!<br />
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And in New Westminster BC, Team Tyler Tardi beat Jordan Kiss by an 8-2 score after 5 ends in the Anita Cochrane Memorial Junior Cash Spiel! Congratulations!<br />
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Hardline WIN Count after Week # 6: 12<br />
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Brad Gushue – Stu Sells Oakville<br />
Silvana Tirinzoni – GSOC Tour Challenge Tier 1<br />
Kerri Einarson – GSOC Tour Challenge Tier 2<br />
Jacqueline Harrison – OCT Oakville Fall Classic<br />
Brad Gushue – AMJ Campbell Shorty Jenkins Classic<br />
Shaun Meachem – HDF Insurance Shootout<br />
Dean Joanisse – Cloverdale Cashspiel<br />
Mike McEwen - Point Optical Curling Classic<br />
Allison Flaxey - KW Fall Curling Classic<br />
Michelle Monford - Mother Club Curling Classic<br />
Theresa Breen - Appleton Rum Cashspiel<br />
Tyler Tardi - Anita Cochrane Memorial Junior CashUnknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-89419255092294805732015-09-22T20:29:00.001-07:002015-09-22T20:29:11.719-07:00WEEK # 5 – THREE MORE WCT WINS!The wins keep coming for Hardline Nation!<br />
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One of the big events of the year on tour is the Shorty Jenkins Classic. For the first time in 18 years, it moved from Brockville to the Cornwall Curling Club, and by all accounts was a huge success.<br />
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Brad Gushue went a perfect 5-0 in the round robin and faced John Epping in the quarterfinals. Gushue prevailed by a 4-3 score, taking one in the 8th to seal the win. In the semis, Gushue faced another tough opponent in Brad Jacobs, but again got the win 5-3. <br />
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In the finals, Gushue faced a formidable Glenn Howard team, who always seems to do well at the Shorty. The fans were treated to a great game with some amazing shots. Gushue took a two point lead into the 8th, but Howard scored his deuce to tie. In the extra end, Howard made an amazing shot to force Gushue into making a tough shot for the win. Gushue calmly made the shot, and claimed the Shorty Jenkins title! That makes two event wins and one finals in three weeks for Gushue. Quite the hot start indeed!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8Gd254wO1mqWMeEP0-Tu0yY63NTfxuwkbq0kIE1HPWoY5p9f5h0QtmnoU-cx671JS57tItu7aCMMMkOc4uIYEyX7hTf_8-FotXWrXdT8pI-p4J11nyCvWIOoc3IhFye9cv4lvBvO3MQ/s1600/Gushue_Shorty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8Gd254wO1mqWMeEP0-Tu0yY63NTfxuwkbq0kIE1HPWoY5p9f5h0QtmnoU-cx671JS57tItu7aCMMMkOc4uIYEyX7hTf_8-FotXWrXdT8pI-p4J11nyCvWIOoc3IhFye9cv4lvBvO3MQ/s320/Gushue_Shorty.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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On the ladies side, 12 women’s teams took part, with Allison Flaxey qualifying as one of the four playoff teams. In the semis, Flaxey faced a tough Marie France Larouche team, and stole the extra end to reach the finals. In the finals Flaxey played Korea’s EunJung Kim who has been playing very well since the start of the season. Flaxey down 4-1 after 6 ends, scored a big 3 in the 7th to tie the game at 4-4. In the 8th, it came down to a measure, but Kim prevailed and scored her one. Congrats Allison and team on a great event!<br />
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Moving west to Edmonton, the HDF Insurance Shootout the men’s event was won by Shaun Meachem of Saskatoon, Hardline supporters. They defeated Brendan Bottcher in the finals 8-4! On the ladies side, Chelsea Carey went a perfect 5-0 in the round robin. In the quarterfinals, Carey beat Casey Scheidegger 6-1, and then faced Stefanie Lawton in the semis. Chelsea Carey came up just a bit short in the semis, falling 6-3 to Lawton. A great showing for Team Carey!<br />
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Finally out west in Surrey BC, the Cloverdale Cashspiel was good for Hardline, with Dean Joanisse starting off their season on a winning note, winning the finals 8-2 over Chase Martyn. Tyler Tardi also enjoyed a good event, with a semi finals finish!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBurMxO-3TFWP3-TFXDKRmq7gOOcGBQuFds7NUbMHHyi5OAU4xxqE36jdvBAir2uj63iBmgp_9-I80wF3e1kAwwZXMGWsiSnNk54DYpvn4gg9HTjNLqybSt0UQ18DqPAIiTaaSWKhYOHk/s1600/Joanisse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBurMxO-3TFWP3-TFXDKRmq7gOOcGBQuFds7NUbMHHyi5OAU4xxqE36jdvBAir2uj63iBmgp_9-I80wF3e1kAwwZXMGWsiSnNk54DYpvn4gg9HTjNLqybSt0UQ18DqPAIiTaaSWKhYOHk/s320/Joanisse.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hardline Win Count after Week 5: 7<br />
Brad Gushue – Stu Sells Oakville<br />
Silvana Tirinzoni – GSOC Tour Challenge Tier 1<br />
Kerri Einarson – GSOC Tour Challenge Tier 2<br />
Jacqueline Harrison – OCT Oakville Fall Classic<br />
Brad Gushue – AMJ Campbell Shorty Jenkins Classic<br />
Shaun Meachem – HDF Insurance Shootout<br />
Dean Joanisse – Cloverdale Cashspiel<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-60007338678324636642015-09-15T21:31:00.000-07:002015-09-15T21:38:13.171-07:00WEEK # 2 – OAKVILLE OCT FALL CLASSIC – JACQUELINE HARRISON WINS<div class="MsoNormal">
In <st1:city w:st="on">Oakville</st1:city>
ON, the OCT Fall Classic was played with two Hardline women’s teams in
action. Jacqueline Harrison finished the
round robin at 3-1 while Allison Flaxey finished at 4-0 and both teams
qualified for playoffs on Sunday. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
Flaxey lost her quarter final game to Mallory Kean in a hard fought extra end
battle, while Jacqueline Harrison defeated <st1:country-region w:st="on">Germany</st1:country-region>’s Daniela Driendl by
scoring 2 in the 8<sup>th</sup> end to tie, and stealing 2 in an extra end!</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
In the semis, <st1:place w:st="on">Harrison</st1:place> had
a bit of easier time defeating Ashley Waye 6-0 to advance to the finals. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the finals, <st1:place w:st="on">Harrison</st1:place>
along with teammates Janet Murphy, Stephanie Matheson, Melissa Foster and
alternate Nicole Westlund defeated Mallory Kean 5-2 and claimed the title!</div>
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</div>
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A great start to the season for <st1:place w:st="on">Harrison</st1:place>! Congrats ladies! </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAZ4Pnh4JIsCyR2THAWsArRkpbDaXj4W5g_J_FBllr7JhKZB5h8OJai-g_9QQ7cnLt6X6WS0IevQXJlXscVIo8MpOu29ILLI8bKrC1V9yD74wKbM5P5nK07z9C3_m-WGjaFEeDS61QD8o/s1600/Harrison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAZ4Pnh4JIsCyR2THAWsArRkpbDaXj4W5g_J_FBllr7JhKZB5h8OJai-g_9QQ7cnLt6X6WS0IevQXJlXscVIo8MpOu29ILLI8bKrC1V9yD74wKbM5P5nK07z9C3_m-WGjaFEeDS61QD8o/s320/Harrison.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Harrison (Photo from Twitter @HughMurf)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-30354449222800048472015-09-15T21:27:00.000-07:002015-09-15T21:27:04.284-07:00WEEK # 2 – TIRINIZONI WINS FIRST GSOC! EINARSON GOES TO THE SHOW!<div class="MsoNormal">
Paradise NL proved to be paradise after all for two Hardline
teams!</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Team Silvana Tirinzoni battled hard and overcame much
adversity throughout the game and stole a victory from defeat! Down 5-2 after 6
ends, and with opponent Rachel Homan seemingly in control, Tirinzoni with lead
Marlene Albrecht, 2<sup>nd</sup> Esther Neuenschwander, and 3<sup>rd</sup>
Manuela Siegrist battled to take 2 in the 7<sup>th</sup> end, and stole 2 in
the 8<sup>th</sup> end when Homan’s draw attempt overcurled and slipped past
shot rock. After several playoff
finishes and finals over the past year, Tirinzoni finally knocked open that
door and won her first GSOC title in her career. Tirinzoni finished the round robin at 2-2,
and with a good shootout score, they finished in 6<sup>th</sup> place. They defeated Kelsey Rocque in the quarters
and Tracy Fleury in the semis to face Rachel Homan.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtSmCPsefhlV2gNJLTp24w8ICu0sypE-s9pchFj-xf0tUoEvy67VtxczRYcZeN-uyIuNOAQCLA2JB4LMAjj58WoknVIx4JN0ULFHuebPlGEYYTAibJAXkPodEhkJid443yXACuk7b1_VY/s1600/TirinzoniGSOC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtSmCPsefhlV2gNJLTp24w8ICu0sypE-s9pchFj-xf0tUoEvy67VtxczRYcZeN-uyIuNOAQCLA2JB4LMAjj58WoknVIx4JN0ULFHuebPlGEYYTAibJAXkPodEhkJid443yXACuk7b1_VY/s320/TirinzoniGSOC.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tier1 Champions Team Tirinzoni (Photo by Anil Mungal - GSOC)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Tirinzoni discuss a shot with coach Gerry Adam <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">(Photo by Anil Mungal - GSOC)</span></td></tr>
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In Tier2 Tour Challenge action, Team Kerri Einarson of <st1:place w:st="on">Manitoba</st1:place> ran the table
and went a perfect 4-0 in round robin and then defeated Michelle Montford
(Hardline team), Jill Thurston, and Chantelle Eberle (skipped by Amber Holland)
in the playoffs to win the title! With
the victory, Einarson along with teammates Kristin MacCuish, Liz Fyfe, and
Selena Kaatz will play in the next GSOC event – The Masters – in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Truro</st1:city> <st1:state w:st="on">NS</st1:state></st1:place>! Congratulations ladies!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrX_hcjefprTMXS0zA2GVJtsz1acb-x1OYtAYgPSpxIea3b_lZlUUKJDeOz9VhDorGH15409al6uiPlYSy5fSj3SgaUsSa2ZKAFYUsHr8sKy62Dbr6e0PD-VGKDrbx09jVV0deziHoZk/s1600/EinarsonGSOC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrX_hcjefprTMXS0zA2GVJtsz1acb-x1OYtAYgPSpxIea3b_lZlUUKJDeOz9VhDorGH15409al6uiPlYSy5fSj3SgaUsSa2ZKAFYUsHr8sKy62Dbr6e0PD-VGKDrbx09jVV0deziHoZk/s320/EinarsonGSOC.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tier2 Champions - Team Kerri Einarson <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">(Photo by Anil Mungal - GSOC)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">In other Tier 1 news, Team Kristy McDonald of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:state w:st="on">Manitoba</st1:state></st1:place> also made their
season debut sporting new icePads and finished 3-1 in the round robin including
wins over Jennifer Jones, Sherry Middaugh and Anna Sidorova, which qualified
them for playoffs. In the
quarterfinals, they came up against the upstart Korean team EunJung Kim and
lost 7-2. A good start to the season!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-72547824439054586152015-09-15T20:32:00.003-07:002015-09-15T21:01:00.796-07:00WEEK # 2 – GSOC MEN’S TOUR CHALLENGE<div class="MsoNormal">
The Grand Slam of Curling season got underway with a brand
new event – The Tour Challenge – in Paradise NL. By all accounts, the event was a sellout
every draw and curling fans were treated to some great early season curling with
some tough frosty ice conditions and fog issues!</div>
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This event was a new format with a Tier 1 section that had
the top 15 men’s and women’s teams, and a Tier 2 section with invited teams
across the country, including 5 local men’s and women’s teams. The winners of the men’s and women’s Tier 2
event would be invited to the next GSOC event, which is the Masters in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Truro</st1:city> <st1:state w:st="on">NS</st1:state></st1:place>
at the end of October.</div>
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Hardline was well represented with no less than 13 teams
participating, including 9 teams playing the Tier 1 event. </div>
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The event marked the debut of Mike McEwen. It was the first time on the ice for this
year for the # 1 team in the world and the team that won 8 events last year. Team McEwen went 3-1 in the round robin and
qualified for playoffs! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn8jR4WDALCN3xb1ZuEfYfojuL2fNuFrAdlRdmC5aMAwN2l2NRVpUrF899akivz75B5CyGHluK0TG2yYGeg0obMyi39WWuefDemR39L07DqvJniYjzKcIb0k-PAdMM2KYx_aJDW2KoZv0/s1600/mcewen_mike_gallery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn8jR4WDALCN3xb1ZuEfYfojuL2fNuFrAdlRdmC5aMAwN2l2NRVpUrF899akivz75B5CyGHluK0TG2yYGeg0obMyi39WWuefDemR39L07DqvJniYjzKcIb0k-PAdMM2KYx_aJDW2KoZv0/s320/mcewen_mike_gallery.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike McEwen (Photo by Anil Mungal - GSOC)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matt Wozniak & Denni Neufeld share a laugh!<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> (Photo by Anil Mungal - GSOC)</span></td></tr>
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Reid Carruthers had a great round robin at 4-0 and qualified
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John Shuster of the <st1:country-region w:st="on">USA</st1:country-region> also qualified for playoffs at
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Hometown favorites Brad Gushue finished the round robin at
3-1 and also qualified for playoffs. So
4 of the 8 men’s playoff teams play Hardline and the icePad!</div>
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In quarter final action, a Hardline battle featured the 4-0
Carruthers team vs 2-2 Shuster. In a
close game, Shuster broke the game open with a 3 in the 6<sup>th</sup> end and
went on to win 6-4. Brad Gushue won a
close game over Glenn Howard 4-2, and Mike McEwen defeated Brad Jacobs
6-1. So for the 2<sup>nd</sup> week in a
row, 3 of the 4 semi finalists were icePad teams!</div>
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In one semi, John Shuster ran into a tough Kevin Koe and was
beaten 9-2. In the other semi, Brad Gushue
faced Mike McEwen in a tight battle.
Tied 3-3 after 6 ends, Brad Gushue scored an important deuce in 7 to go
ahead 5-3, and when McEwen couldn’t score his 2 in 8<sup>th</sup>, Gushue was
off to the finals to face Koe.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlcfl1E-FQOFQKch0LF3_zyK203SF7ZLZHyNKpTacNGp8WVYMDGYZaPhneBxP149lvQzj-t0-zi9lMz9ptD-sFE2avy1Hz1_AyUH0_QGdMJfR2p4TLeJpJz4lAGKwI0zZOmM9pkACROH0/s1600/GushueGSOC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlcfl1E-FQOFQKch0LF3_zyK203SF7ZLZHyNKpTacNGp8WVYMDGYZaPhneBxP149lvQzj-t0-zi9lMz9ptD-sFE2avy1Hz1_AyUH0_QGdMJfR2p4TLeJpJz4lAGKwI0zZOmM9pkACROH0/s320/GushueGSOC.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Gushue celebrate a win! <span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> (Photo by Anil Mungal - GSOC)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJpu_xI8z14XJkA_GDXp7rugl3Vy4PpMfiHsKGdCeA8shKbC2EfbQ25v-G3CdTXFH7_jk70OfekV_dYrZDvOjEUdyf0lvVrRDMBAqE3ffK-Y4Kmv9iJBJj6WOZkZNx8Caka_RCT8Uncw/s1600/gushue_brad_gallery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJpu_xI8z14XJkA_GDXp7rugl3Vy4PpMfiHsKGdCeA8shKbC2EfbQ25v-G3CdTXFH7_jk70OfekV_dYrZDvOjEUdyf0lvVrRDMBAqE3ffK-Y4Kmv9iJBJj6WOZkZNx8Caka_RCT8Uncw/s320/gushue_brad_gallery.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brad Gushue<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> (Photo by Anil Mungal - GSOC)</span></td></tr>
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The hometown NFLD crowd was definitely behind Brad Gushue
the whole way, and the final game was a back and forth affair. It seemed every time Team Gushue would gain
an advantage in an end, Koe saved his team by making some great shots including
a beautiful draw to the button against 4, and a runback double in the 8<sup>th</sup>
end to hold Gushue to only one point and force the extra end. In the end, Koe had to draw to the 4 foot
against two Gushue counters, and won the game.
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">All in all, a great week for the Hardline men’s teams
in Paradise NL!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-36822064684663414872015-09-14T21:45:00.001-07:002015-09-14T22:51:11.528-07:00WEEK # 1 UPDATE - STU SELLS OAKVILLE TANKARD - GUSHUE WINS!<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">WEEK # 1 – STU SELLS <st1:city w:st="on">OAKVILLE</st1:city>
TANKARD</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The season got underway in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Oakville</st1:city> <st1:state w:st="on">ON</st1:state></st1:place>
from Sept 3 – 7, 2015. This is a great
fun event with several top men’s and women’s teams taking part. Defending men’s champions Mike McEwen decided
to skip this event and begin their season in Paradise NL for the new GSOC Tour
Challenge event. On the women’s side,
defending champions Silvana Tirinzoni were on hand to try and defend their
title.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Several Hardline teams were there to begin their
season. On the men’s side: Reid
Carruthers, Steve Laycock, and Brad Gushue, who were both making their Hardline
debuts. On the women’s side: Silvana
Tirinzoni, Chelsea Carey, Allison Flaxey, Jacqueline Harrison, Caitlin Romain,
and Courtney George.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This event gave Hardline the opportunity to meet all our
teams, take some on ice action photos (see our Hardline Curling Equipment Facebook page), and wish them all a great curling
season! We also got to spend some social
time with Team Reid Carruthers, Team Caitlin Romain, and Team Doug Brewer,
Hardline supporters! Thanks for your
hospitality!</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8KSedLwCkWBOrjL7UgaMQbcUvNUTDIHHD9Mlj8O6oeiiq1GS5ESnKoI2BaLe6fNyjWJtg0tcjoD4k48darCdlVcBQR8nPilVCYVH0izUG8ALDLd7-ANAQ2FW3AUAktCrAl7Itj7o4aQ/s1600/20150903_192526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8KSedLwCkWBOrjL7UgaMQbcUvNUTDIHHD9Mlj8O6oeiiq1GS5ESnKoI2BaLe6fNyjWJtg0tcjoD4k48darCdlVcBQR8nPilVCYVH0izUG8ALDLd7-ANAQ2FW3AUAktCrAl7Itj7o4aQ/s320/20150903_192526.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Out for dinner with Team Reid Carruthers</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrZPluVvozdqTMh3Z6alYMIGv_JFvie9jUdEhdTmPVw0BqAtamr7mR3bHAihB_WWt5bZ82xtDUDPculh4EhZk6nc2zxw7zN5PAx_2IsHxlqj5cjv1ECJOSSFC7mLg2N_0nKploMugP18o/s1600/20150904_211844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrZPluVvozdqTMh3Z6alYMIGv_JFvie9jUdEhdTmPVw0BqAtamr7mR3bHAihB_WWt5bZ82xtDUDPculh4EhZk6nc2zxw7zN5PAx_2IsHxlqj5cjv1ECJOSSFC7mLg2N_0nKploMugP18o/s320/20150904_211844.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caitlin Romain and Kim Tuck enjoying dessert</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzsChNhrdFzjOiMdE9M6u6Ng73vGOTSk55FM2YxudjVApkNIcL5r8Dn7glpFOoVsBzthaqAKXp0xde5LTAMzKOj3BiLOAhfv3SyyvrQ7_olk2ROf8Mhkg6Jvq-Z3ZW_XBtRBZvU522Dwo/s1600/20150905_143102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzsChNhrdFzjOiMdE9M6u6Ng73vGOTSk55FM2YxudjVApkNIcL5r8Dn7glpFOoVsBzthaqAKXp0xde5LTAMzKOj3BiLOAhfv3SyyvrQ7_olk2ROf8Mhkg6Jvq-Z3ZW_XBtRBZvU522Dwo/s320/20150905_143102.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoy the Blue Jays game with Team Doug Brewer</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDRqchaGrjf0H87l4Wvuqa7_ivus7KEPHzwvxCC9gCF6QGDCL3MunC5MHHRo7e2LyS4zHOk4AvEhyphenhyphenyw11eRc7iDTkwIZW-Y7SD-J9bmNPi_R6rtH3P2u06eVUiQXKWtvUAa5zqHhlr1eg/s1600/FB_IMG_1442289538765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDRqchaGrjf0H87l4Wvuqa7_ivus7KEPHzwvxCC9gCF6QGDCL3MunC5MHHRo7e2LyS4zHOk4AvEhyphenhyphenyw11eRc7iDTkwIZW-Y7SD-J9bmNPi_R6rtH3P2u06eVUiQXKWtvUAa5zqHhlr1eg/s320/FB_IMG_1442289538765.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little birthday dinner with Team Caitlin Romain</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">On the women’s side, Team Silvana Tirinzoni with new coach
Gerry Adam qualified for playoffs, beating Anna Hasselborg in the
quarterfinals, before losing the semi finals to eventual winners Rachel Homan. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">On the men’s side, it was a great event for our teams. Carruthers, Laycock and Gushue all made the
playoffs and each won their quarterfinal games.
In one Hardline battle semi- final, Gushue defeated Laycock 8-6, while Carruthers
held off Jim Cotter by a score of 5-4 in an extra end. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This set up a Hardline battle final between
Gushue and Carruthers, which Gushue won by a 5-3 score. With the win, they joined a number of teams
that won their first event playing with the icePad! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtK7srinSS1VVqFqj3buWL1wmkjkd1NRuGNRxzVV8ZdpvzxTvr5aGz9qjWIXqIvGAl_fAYJ9amn2OsHE4WKY324aNNSfJ-jyYkTXJC1TuNvHgCsLHVzJiWzfO5sAx5V2wcOb_yYM79QZ0/s1600/TEamGushueOakville.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtK7srinSS1VVqFqj3buWL1wmkjkd1NRuGNRxzVV8ZdpvzxTvr5aGz9qjWIXqIvGAl_fAYJ9amn2OsHE4WKY324aNNSfJ-jyYkTXJC1TuNvHgCsLHVzJiWzfO5sAx5V2wcOb_yYM79QZ0/s320/TEamGushueOakville.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Congratulations to all our teams!</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-24739044665228690122015-09-14T20:57:00.002-07:002015-09-14T20:57:32.022-07:00NEW POWERRIB TECHNOLOGY<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">New for this year is our PowerRib technology which gives
sweepers added grip on our handles.
Apply more pressure without fear or losing your grip! Combined with the icePad, you’ll be sweeping
even faster than before. Mike McEwen said,
“@<st1:personname w:st="on">HardlineCurling</st1:personname>'s #PowerRib grip
handles w/ tapering are unmatched for grip strength & control - and with
the icePad brush combo? #epic” We agree!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Get yours today!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYbe3DrP4kM6SfYdwWuqympDrvQeO30vi2WTcj-7rMnRDXecaGTXYm0wD487KO5BLDcR5SVskigWytBWtIU1jXm0SoBwePMu7JrXPdVvLmP8OOjZEedz-S65sVOFIWT37O5dGY4zKy6xY/s1600/PowerRib3A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYbe3DrP4kM6SfYdwWuqympDrvQeO30vi2WTcj-7rMnRDXecaGTXYm0wD487KO5BLDcR5SVskigWytBWtIU1jXm0SoBwePMu7JrXPdVvLmP8OOjZEedz-S65sVOFIWT37O5dGY4zKy6xY/s320/PowerRib3A.JPG" width="167" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLVC0hJ7qVGg1uvfmVlffitoEMmNgdt2YujxtC205hqx2NA1JxUVbIh_OqtaOrqzfM0bl344Z10cwdqdLAN531B4mhEbWCdA7KBX5XFDHaOMBfYRV_IUtNnTxHRUTkDLDKQDhIN4gfgc8/s1600/PowerRib3B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLVC0hJ7qVGg1uvfmVlffitoEMmNgdt2YujxtC205hqx2NA1JxUVbIh_OqtaOrqzfM0bl344Z10cwdqdLAN531B4mhEbWCdA7KBX5XFDHaOMBfYRV_IUtNnTxHRUTkDLDKQDhIN4gfgc8/s320/PowerRib3B.JPG" width="291" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6_S54uxTs9Y13EVQ84-u8itl8BEWzY2YnbqyMztOmVcjUTL3oMjdNgxROJicNwm4qE7asYj2TDPPuJcYIJTW7TcKJd5lCa-Na1CE4Cw3iGbN6CwTY4b5rDHScI3iqISADyvI1ctRDys/s1600/PowerRib1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="90" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6_S54uxTs9Y13EVQ84-u8itl8BEWzY2YnbqyMztOmVcjUTL3oMjdNgxROJicNwm4qE7asYj2TDPPuJcYIJTW7TcKJd5lCa-Na1CE4Cw3iGbN6CwTY4b5rDHScI3iqISADyvI1ctRDys/s320/PowerRib1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-38281812604205996972015-09-14T20:54:00.003-07:002015-09-15T19:52:01.058-07:00TEAM BRAD GUSHUE JOINS HARDLINE CURLING<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0dAMbcx1D1No5uFrty1fT9hgndGqfB40VA5yNDZpMD8u1VzSx5HzIvDSEheIzaVQ_VReyiHA4mdDakGaqFhzoltw5EMAES93Jt8y5w39qIwzSu5q_FyKow-_wGVHFwKpo-8Js103bAA/s1600/TeamGushue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0dAMbcx1D1No5uFrty1fT9hgndGqfB40VA5yNDZpMD8u1VzSx5HzIvDSEheIzaVQ_VReyiHA4mdDakGaqFhzoltw5EMAES93Jt8y5w39qIwzSu5q_FyKow-_wGVHFwKpo-8Js103bAA/s320/TeamGushue.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-19912626788024035242015-09-14T20:53:00.000-07:002015-09-14T20:53:27.377-07:00SPRING / SUMMER 2015 UPDATE<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: large;">The new curling season is here, and we’ve been working hard
to get things ready! The word is
spreading about the icePad, and more and more teams are making the switch. Other companies have started to come out
with their own version, and others may follow also, but rest assured – the
icePad is still the fastest, most efficient curling brush on the planet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here at Hardline, we’re very appreciative of all the teams
that approach us to play with the icePad.
We like to call our teams and supporters “Hardline Nation” and we use
that hashtag on Twitter to indicate that our supporters are growing in numbers,
and that we feel a close bond with our teams.
</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We had a number of teams join our already impressive list
over the spring and summer, while others saw the major advantage of playing
with the icePad and opted to stay with Hardline through until the next Olympic
cycle of 2017/18. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We’re ecstatic to report that our relationship with our two
major teams – Mike McEwen and Reid Carruthers – is in place through 2017/18!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqIB9Zj3DW_RuArhyphenhyphenn4vrkS_I0NILLawX54D0QXb_KrkMljX2gA7wyJbLAIqgpRVIZb9Sgl12kNmui7I8T9vYAxEye0G22vrmsSyjGdQoVWhbegzIXTWXoBU2Pv_qWOVsTf_Q77p7Sv_s/s1600/Hardline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqIB9Zj3DW_RuArhyphenhyphenn4vrkS_I0NILLawX54D0QXb_KrkMljX2gA7wyJbLAIqgpRVIZb9Sgl12kNmui7I8T9vYAxEye0G22vrmsSyjGdQoVWhbegzIXTWXoBU2Pv_qWOVsTf_Q77p7Sv_s/s320/Hardline.jpg" width="292" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Other teams to join Hardline Nation over the spring and
summer (in no particular order):</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Steve Laycock – SK</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Chelsea Carey – AB</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Peter De Cruz – <st1:country-region w:st="on">Switzerland</st1:country-region></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Brock Virtue – AB</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Kristy McDonald – MB</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Kerri Einarson – MB</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Michelle Montford – MB</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cathy Overton-Clapham – MB</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Matt Dunstone – MB </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Krista McCarville – NO</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Caitlin Romain – ON</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Jacqueline Harrison – ON</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Aku Kauste – <st1:country-region w:st="on">Finland</st1:country-region></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Courtney George – <st1:country-region w:st="on">USA</st1:country-region></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Jamie Koe – NWT</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Geri-Lynn Ramsay – AB </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And many more…including one major team that just came on in
September. See the next blog post for
details!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thank you Hardline Nation for all your support! Have a great season!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-7687497960469803512015-02-28T14:20:00.000-08:002015-03-22T14:27:57.243-07:00Team Carruthers Represents Manitoba at The BrierHistory was made at this year's Brier for Hardline Curling! <br />
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With Team Carruthers winning Manitoba and earning their ticket to Calgary, the icePad would be in play at the Brier for the first time!<br />
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The week started off great for lead Colin Hodgson who won the Ford Hot Shots event, winning a 2 year lease on a Ford F150 truck!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GKL2sjXLQfabLYe3GxYrCYWaPmxNYLfiThp7oPx2hDwN0rgY2_JBWCujv3y1gyV8gYPmWqruULG0uoiS07f5vSmKLCHvWnUwyeC_IyeiOIdIgtxcy2e6s9IiRQ8oRCOh_SHI-jqODZs/s1600/DSC_7772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GKL2sjXLQfabLYe3GxYrCYWaPmxNYLfiThp7oPx2hDwN0rgY2_JBWCujv3y1gyV8gYPmWqruULG0uoiS07f5vSmKLCHvWnUwyeC_IyeiOIdIgtxcy2e6s9IiRQ8oRCOh_SHI-jqODZs/s1600/DSC_7772.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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Colin also had the distinction of throwing the first rock for Hardline at the Brier. You can see the video here: <a href="https://youtu.be/ONy6A5zu-hM" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/ONy6A5zu-hM</a></div>
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This was Reid Carruthers 4th trip to the Brier, but his first as a skip! The team played well all week long, making some great shots and earning some big wins, but in the end, Team Carruthers finished with a 4-7 record, while Colin Hodgson earned 1st all star team honors at the lead position.</div>
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Thanks to Team Carruthers on helping Hardline Curling make history!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCzk11sl8o2RvdArbXDjd4iiHTQyMKduPaM_vXii5Mk-ek4AG9kGH17F8QAvT3Fy_mMq8jt0QyEXz5FxddVteVLD_Z10FRlb_MQdnmqlHeeqiWog3dh2So8rvHz5jjm6SjUs2vvAJ93U/s1600/DSC_7782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCzk11sl8o2RvdArbXDjd4iiHTQyMKduPaM_vXii5Mk-ek4AG9kGH17F8QAvT3Fy_mMq8jt0QyEXz5FxddVteVLD_Z10FRlb_MQdnmqlHeeqiWog3dh2So8rvHz5jjm6SjUs2vvAJ93U/s1600/DSC_7782.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-45222815440066907872015-02-21T17:00:00.000-08:002015-03-22T14:15:10.475-07:00Team John Shuster wins USA Nationals - will represent at world's in HalifaxAfter joining Team Hardline back in September 2014, Team Shuster had a strong fall season and earned enough points to secure top spot in points earnings. Shuster finished the round robin with an 8-1 record, good for 1st place. <div>
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They played Craig Brown in the 1vs2 page playoff game, winning it and earning their berth in the final.</div>
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With the team earning enough points, they did not need to win the final to secure their entry to the world's in Halifax, but Shuster left no doubt with a 8-5 win over Brown again.</div>
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Good luck at the World's in Halifax! We'll be watching!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia8Nu85qIri8FmJcpfHcVPKClq3OiZyPeXiBBP35NDf3qqMy3PCDY3s0QrLLIexfzlcwo5g2fRPndBQxlyU06w__NN1RoWJarqkAKcDQbS6cQr_etSqEtoE3pQLGsPLY1A6Q3jA51Wykk/s1600/16437537708_0dd5ed6b3d_k.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia8Nu85qIri8FmJcpfHcVPKClq3OiZyPeXiBBP35NDf3qqMy3PCDY3s0QrLLIexfzlcwo5g2fRPndBQxlyU06w__NN1RoWJarqkAKcDQbS6cQr_etSqEtoE3pQLGsPLY1A6Q3jA51Wykk/s1600/16437537708_0dd5ed6b3d_k.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-48701142940857822332015-02-08T20:30:00.000-08:002015-03-22T13:55:47.952-07:00Team Reid Carruthers Wins 2015 MB Safeway ChampionshipsIt was a dream final for Hardline Curling in Manitoba! <br />
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For Team Reid Carruthers, it was a dream come true!<br />
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After losing their 2nd game, they regained their focus and played lights out the rest of the way, earning victories to finish in the 1vs2 game in page playoffs. They would face their Hardline Curling teammates, Team Mike McEwen. McEwen got off to a strong start, leading 4-1 after 6. In the 7th end, Carruthers faced a very tough double to stay in the game, and he executed to perfection. You can see the shot here: <a href="https://youtu.be/Ja9ft4mxBeU" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/Ja9ft4mxBeU</a><br />
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From there, Carruthers turned the game around and earned a hard fought come from behind win against McEwen on some very questionable ice.<br />
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McEwen then faced his longtime rival, Jeff Stoughton, in the semi finals. And with a great double takeout in the 10th, McEwen earned his place in the finals in a rematch against Carruthers and a Hardline Curling dream final. The icePad would be going to the Brier!<br />
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In the finals, it was a close game until the 6th end, when faced against 3, McEwen drew a little heavy and gave a steal of 3 and 4-1 lead to Carruthers.<br />
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McEwen managed to make it 4-3 after 8, and with a single in the 9th, Carruthers took a 5-3 lead into the 10th. But with a last takeout, Carruthers and team sealed the victory and booked their ticket to the Brier in Calgary! See the last shot here: <a href="https://youtu.be/WIuQaSqD8pg" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/WIuQaSqD8pg</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP8xhQlrGdfy-0pWtX_hlk8UyNoJ32iHnl0jy4oO7TB_gWywDxAwTczL3z64qjDd5KTK3-IljdtQ-BFj2YN3X_yERK-o7sOihB2cpVLLi93zFzij7K5kZBvb9rXLemhNjHf_FIgzJ890c/s1600/Carruthers6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP8xhQlrGdfy-0pWtX_hlk8UyNoJ32iHnl0jy4oO7TB_gWywDxAwTczL3z64qjDd5KTK3-IljdtQ-BFj2YN3X_yERK-o7sOihB2cpVLLi93zFzij7K5kZBvb9rXLemhNjHf_FIgzJ890c/s1600/Carruthers6.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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News & Notes: <br />
Over in Switzerland, Team Silvana Tirinzoni played in their national championships, and earned a silver medal by reaching the finals, but losing to Team Alina Paetz. <br />
In BC, Team Dean Joanisse also earned the silver medal at BC provincials losing a hard fought battle in an extra end against Jim Cotter. <br />
In Quebec, Team Mike Fournier fought hard and made it to the finals, but lost to Jean-Michel Menard who earned his way to another Brier in Calgary.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-39750138941540954612015-01-08T18:30:00.000-08:002015-03-22T14:04:42.544-07:00Team Felix Asselin wins QC Junior ProvincialsTeam Felix Asselin from Glenmore Curling Club won the QC junior provincials and earned their 3rd championship in four years, and a trip to Corner Brook NL!<br />
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At nationals, Team QC was the only team to beat eventual champions, Braeden Calvert of MB. QC also made it to a tie breaker against Team SK to make the playoffs. Team QC had a great week, and was one win away from making playoffs. Congratulations!<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-28426549289434126072014-12-07T22:14:00.001-08:002014-12-07T22:30:02.521-08:002014 CANADA CUP RECAP - MCEWEN WINS AGAIN! NEDOHIN REACHES SEMI'S<span style="font-size: large;">Team Mike McEwen continues its winning ways winning their 6th event of the season by capturing the 2014 Canada Cup of Curling. McEwen started the game by taking a deuce in the 1st end. In the 2nd end, McEwen was lying 3 around the 4 foot. Jacobs had an light tap in off to score 1 or at least limit the damage, but his draw was about 2 feet too heavy which gave the steal of 3 to McEwen, and what turned out to be an insurmountable 5-0 lead.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the 4th end, Jacobs was down 5-2 and attempting to steal. They sat 2 in the four foot, until B.J. Neufeld's 1st rock in the end, a spectacular double-raise triple takeout to sit one and turn the end around. Right after that, he comes back with a soft back 8 weight tap and roll to sit 2. You can view both shots here: <a href="http://youtu.be/r71-k9y0dFw" target="_blank">B.J. Neufeld Shots</a></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="tco-ellipsis" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #009999; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 22px; text-decoration: none; white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;"><span class="invisible" style="line-height: 0;"> </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After taking a deuce to lead 7-2, and after the 8th end, the final score was 8-3.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The game was far different from the men's semi finals which was a closely contested game between Mike McEwen and Glenn Howard. Both teams made amazing shots. McEwen blanked the first 3 ends before finally taking a deuce in the 4th end. After Howard was held to a single in the 5th end, McEwen got into some trouble in the 6th end, but calmly drew to the button facing 3 Howard counters and kept the lead 3-1. After trading singles, Howard came home in the 10th end down 4-2 but had the hammer and scored the tying deuce. In the extra end, lead Denni Neufeld made two fantastic tick shots, and the rest of the end was peels, which left McEwen a draw to the full 8 foot for the win and he made it! With the win, they qualified not only for the finals, but the 2015 Continental Cup in January.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After the Canada Cup victory, Team McEwen matches their highest ever win total in a single season with 6. They are 45-7 and firmly hold the #1 spot on the World Curling Tour Order of Merit, CTRS rankings, and the money list.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nedohin Reaches Semis</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Team Heather Nedohin played a strong round robin at the Canada Cup finishing with a 4-2 record, good enough for 2nd place and a semi final berth against fellow AB team Val Sweeting. In a hard fought battle and back and forth game, missed a chance for a deuce in the 7th end settling for 1 and a 4-3 lead. Sweeting then took 2 and stole another in the 9th end to take a 6-4 lead. Nedohin played a strong 10th end to score 2 sending the game to an extra end. Nedohin played a raise on her last rock but narrowly missed giving Sweeting the win. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Flaxey finishes 1-5</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Team Allison Flaxey playing their first Canada Cup had a rough week finishing with a 1-5 record, but saw the team lose 2 tough games including an extra end loss to Olympic champions Jennifer Jones. They could have easily finished with 3-3 record and we look to more successes from this team in the future.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8398466113735782294.post-33878955081281438462014-12-02T10:01:00.003-08:002014-12-02T10:03:12.414-08:00THE STORY BEHIND THE PANTS!<span style="font-size: large;">So what's the story with the <span style="color: red;"><b>RED</b></span> pants of Team Mike McEwen?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Some people love them, some others not so much. But a lot of people are talking about them, that's for sure!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Early in the season, right around the first event of the season in Oakville, Hardline met up with Team McEwen. We had made some light blue pants that we thought they would look great in. While they liked the pants, they asked if they came in red. We checked and it was available in red.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So we made 4 custom red pants for them. They had said they would only wear them in Grand Slam events in the playoffs. We kept it a secret, and in early November, as advertised, they brought out the red pants when they qualified in Selkirk MB for the Masters GSOC event, making the shot of the year in the 6th of the finals against Brad Gushue! Unfortunately they lost that final, but came right back at the National in Sault Ste Marie and beat Brad Jacobs in the finals!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So far so good with the red pants!</span><br />
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Photo courtesy of Anil Mungal</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com