How far would you travel to watch curling?

Pat and Clare Phillips of Tisdale recently flew 2,700 miles to watch a curling game.

Their son Richard plays in a competitive league at the Ottawa Curling Club, with approximately thirty current, or former Brier players, including names like Jenn Hanna (2005 Canadian Scott Tournament of Hearts finalist) and Craig Saville (former world junior champion and currently with Glenn Howard).

Last week, Richard and his team were up against the current Canadian Brier Champion, Jean-Michel Ménard.

Despite the best efforts of the international cheering section, the only measurable result of the game was a marked jump in the self-confidence of Mr. Menard.

"I anticipate Jean-Michel, who just won a major Quebec spiel, could be back at the Brier again this year, and we will know that we helped kick start his season," said Richard. "Playing a Canadian champion is certainly an excellent experience and gives you a sense of how good, and how consistent, you have to be to go all the way."

After both teams and the fans shared a cool beverage following the game, Mr. Ménard agreed to a photo, to help make the trip worthwhile for Pat and Clare.