Briane Harris, a celebrated four-time Canadian women’s curling champion, is currently under provisional suspension for up to four years following a positive test result for a banned substance. Harris, who competes as part of Team Kerri Einarson from Gimli, Manitoba, has contested the decision, asserting that her exposure to the banned substance was unintentional and occurred through bodily contact.
In a statement released by Team Einarson, the team clarified that Harris learned of her positive test result in mid-February, which led to her provisional suspension from all competitive play until a final determination is made. The team emphasized that Harris is asserting her innocence, claiming she was unknowingly exposed to the banned substance. To support her case, Harris has engaged legal representation and is working diligently to clear her name.
The situation has been further complicated by the confirmation of the banned substance in Harris’s B sample late last week. The timing of this announcement coincided with the opening of the 2024 Scotties Tournament of Hearts on February 16, the day when Curling Canada declared Harris ineligible for the tournament. The lack of immediate commentary from Harris, Team Einarson, or Curling Canada was attributed to the need for confidentiality during the testing process.
The banned substance identified in Harris’s test is Ligandrol, known for its muscle-enhancing and energy-boosting properties. Harris expressed her shock and devastation upon learning of the positive test result. At 32 years old, Harris, who avoids supplements and even basic over-the-counter medications, found the situation particularly distressing. Her primary goal is to resolve the issue swiftly to preserve her aspirations of competing in the Olympics, which she feels are at risk due to no fault of her own.
In Harris’s absence, team alternate Krysten Karwacki stepped in during the Scotties Tournament of Hearts and earned an all-star award. Karwacki is set to continue in Harris’s position for the remainder of the season, including the Grand Slam circuit’s Players’ Championship in Toronto scheduled for April. The timing of today’s statement was coordinated with the World Curling Federation’s release, which reaffirmed its commitment to clean sport and adherence to the WADA code. The federation maintains a stringent testing regime to ensure fairness and integrity in the sport.