CBC Newfoundland and Labrador - Gushue cheered on arrival home

Last updated Dec 13 2005 07:26 AM NST
CBC News

Curling sensation Brad Gushue and his rink received a hero’s welcome Monday night in St. John’s.

About 100 people cheered Gushue, 25, as he and his crew arrived home, after winning the Olympic trials in Halifax this weekend.

FROM DEC. 11, 2005: Gushue wins berth to Olympics

“They’re representing Canada but they’re still Newfoundlanders,” said Jeff Thomas, Gushue’s former coach.

“And I think that’s great … this is the biggest sporting win in this province’s history.”

The victory was especially sweet for Gushue’s parents, as his mother Maureen is fighting cancer.

“He took it quite hard,” said Ray Gushue, his father.

“He wasn’t going to go to a couple of tournaments because she wasn’t feeling great. It’s really nice and sweet for the fact that he had a lot on his mind.”

Brad Gushue said he and his rink will relax and savour their victory over Christmas and then prepare for the Torino Olympics in February.

He said the hometown spirit will make it easier to train.

“The support has been incredible – e-mails have been flowing in all week. All the support is overwhelming,” Gushue said.

“And that makes it special knowing so many people are behind you and cheering for you.”

Copyright © CBC 2005

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