Ray Brennan Curling Team

Inducted: 2024

In March 1985, the Ray Brennan curling team from the Florenceville Curling Club proudly represented New Brunswick at the Canadian Senior Curling Championship in Yorkton, Saskatchewan. It was a memorable once-in-a-lifetime experience for the humble foursome, which consisted of skip Raymond Brennan, mate Clayton Buckingham, second Tim Bliss and lead Carl Ash. While the team “didn’t win very many games” the curlers were honored to be voted the national tournament’s “most sportsmanlike team”.

The victory that earned the Brennan team a berth at the national championship was a surprise to many, including the players themselves. At the provincial championship, the team won nine of their 10 matches, defeating several of NB’s top-seeded rinks, much to the delight of curling fans gathered for the final game at the Riverside Country Club in Rothesay. The Florenceville team clinched the sudden death final with a 9-6 win over a heavily favoured rink from Saint John.

At home, Ray and his teammates could often be found at the club, playing in weekly league matches or weekend bonspiels. They also travelled to bonspiels throughout the Maritimes, Maine and New Hampshire to compete and socialize, developing many lifelong friendships during their years together.

All four curlers were outstanding athletes and community-minded residents. They raised funds and gave generously of their time as executive members, coaches and volunteers of various local organizations, including the Florenceville Curling Club, Florenceville Rotary Club, Florenceville Potato Kings hockey team, Centreville Elks Club, Bath Fire Department and the Aroostook Valley Golf Club