25 years later: Shymko rink’s magical run at 1999 Brier

It was a magical time for those who saw it unfold, and for the competitors it was an unforgettable experience.

It was 25 years ago today (March 6th) that the Yorkton rink skipped by Gerald Shymko alongside Gerry Adam, Steve Sobkow, Arnie Geisler & Neil Curson’s started their memorable run a the 1999 Brier in Edmonton.

The Shymko team qualified at each step and were successful in reaching the final of the provincial championship  held in Meadow Lake where they were joined by Yorkton clubmate Bryan Derbowka and his rink.

Gerry Adam says it was quite the game to be a part of. 

“It was a tough game to be part of honestly, I curled with Brian for many years and we also had the goal to make it to the Brier, so hard to see some one lose but still glad we came out on top.”

The Shymko team then received their green and white Saskatchewan sweaters and the coveted purple hearts and they were off to Brier, at the Skyreach Center in Edmonton.

“It was one of those things we didn’t have much expectations going in as it was our first kind of experience, but as the week went on we got more comfortable and realized we could compete at this level.” Adam added. 

The team completed the round robin in third place and disposed of Russ Howard in the 3-4 game.

Then came the semi-final and a matchup with Quebec’s Guy Hemmings, a game that Adam admits was the greatest one he was a part of.

“It was a back and forth game, and it could’ve went either way, we tied it up in 10th and then Gerald make a great draw to the side of the button but guess not good enough as Guy made a once in a lifetime draw to beat us.”

So it was an unfortunate result, and not the storybook ending for the local crew that is still stung by that loss to this day, but Adam says it was a great run to be a part of with a great group of friends, that he won’t forget. 

“At this time every year you always think about it a bit a bit more, and it stings being that close,  cause you don’t get many chances usually to compete for a Brier title.” 


Chat with Adam below: