Stoughton Hoping to Keep Hot Streak Alive

After playing a dominant role on the competitive curling circuit over the past two decades, there was growing speculation that Jeff Stoughton may be drawing close to retirement. But the Winnipeg skip put those thoughts to rest with a breakout 2011 season highlighted by victories at the Tim Hortons Brier in London and the Ford World Men’s Curling Championship in Regina. A revamped lineup proved to be the key to success as longtime third Jon Mead rejoined Stoughton and lead Steve Gould after a three-year absence, and Reid Carruthers was recruited to throw second stones. Along with a pair of gold medals, the titles also earned the four-some a spot in the 2011 Capital One Canada Cup of Curling, November 30 – December 4 in Cranbrook. Stoughton holds a long record of curling achievements, winning three Brier Tankards in nine appearances, two World Curling Championship gold medals as well as strong showings in the pressure-packed Tim Hortons Roar of the Rings – finishing second in 2005 and third in 2009.  A win at this year’s Canada Cup would automatically put him on hometown ice when the Canadian Curling Trials head to Winnipeg in 2013. “You Gotta Be There” to see the country’s best men’s and women’s curling teams kick off a new Season of Champions at the Cranbrook Rec Plex.  Just click here for the best seats in the house.