Brett Gallant Embraces Olympic Curling Marathon at 2026 Winter Games
Canadian curler Brett Gallant is poised to undertake an unprecedented curling marathon at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milano-Cortina, Italy. The 35-year-old athlete from Charlottetown, now residing in Alberta, is set to compete in both mixed doubles and men's team curling events, facing a potential schedule of nearly 20 consecutive days on the ice.
Double Medal Pursuit with Wife Jocelyn Peterman
Gallant's Olympic journey begins Wednesday alongside his wife, Jocelyn Peterman, in the mixed doubles discipline. The couple, who settled for silver at the 2019 World Mixed Doubles Curling Championships, view this as an opportunity to complete unfinished business on the global stage. "We really want to be on that podium," said Peterman, 32. "We've worked really hard at being fully committed to our preparation and having no regrets."
Following the mixed doubles competition, Gallant will transition to his role as second on Team Jacobs in the men's curling event. This dual participation makes him one of Canada's rare double-medal threats at the upcoming Games. "It's a pretty cool opportunity—and I'm excited for it," Gallant remarked. "How cool is it to do that on one of the biggest sporting stages?"
Past Olympic Experience Fuels Motivation
Both athletes bring valuable Olympic experience to their 2026 campaign. Peterman competed as second for Jennifer Jones at the 2022 Beijing Games, while Gallant earned a bronze medal with Brad Gushue during those same Olympics. Their shared history of near-podium finishes has intensified their drive for gold in Cortina.
Gallant's optimistic outlook contrasts with what might seem like an exhausting schedule. "Close to 20 days in a row—that's pretty exciting for a curling athlete who loves the sport," he said, dismissing concerns about fatigue. Instead, he embraces the challenge as a unique opportunity to represent Canada in multiple disciplines.
Mixed Doubles Schedule and Competition
The mixed doubles event features a nine-game round-robin schedule at the historic Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium, originally built in 1956. Gallant and Peterman will face their first opponents, Czechia's Julie Zelingrová and Vit Chabičovský, on Wednesday, February 4, at 1:05 p.m. ET, with coverage available on CBC Gem.
This rigorous Olympic undertaking highlights the dedication and versatility required of elite curlers. As Gallant and Peterman prepare for their opening draw, they remain focused on their processes and preparation, aiming to make Canada proud on one of sports' grandest stages.
