(by Kristen Odland, Calgary Herald)
Adam Casey took a break from pursuing his master’s degree in applied science from Dalhousie University to fly across the country, hoping for a shot at attending the 2015 Tim Hortons Brier.
In theory, the native of Seven Mile Bay, P.E.I., should be in Calgary for two weeks — from the three-team pre-qualifying tournament which starts Thursday until the end of the men’s national curling championship.
And should that be the case, Casey has taken the necessary steps to ensure he’ll be able to perform with his P.E.I.-based team until the end.
“There are some benefits (with being in Calgary early),” said Casey who would be attending his fourth Brier should his team advance. “The games at the end of the week, they mean something. It’s good to have every game out there be important … whatever team gets through will essentially have three games of practice before the (Brier) starts. There is some experience you gain and confidence with the ice … it’s a great opportunity.
“Whatever team gets through the pre-qualifier gets a leg up on the competition.”
A little background on his group.
Made up of third Josh Barry, second Anson Carmody, and lead Robbie Doherty, they were formed at the end of last season when Casey received news that he wouldn’t be returning for a fourth season with Brad Gushue’s team out of St. John’s, Newfoundland.
And the team didn’t just magically come together.
There was some familiarity between teammates as Casey and Carmody won a 2009 Canadian junior title together and silver at the 2009 world junior championship. Carmody is experienced and attended the national championship last year and Doherty has experience at the provincial level [PEICurling.com ed. note -and has been on a winning Canadian Mixed team]. Meanwhile Barry skipped the New Brunswick men’s rink at the 2013 Canadian junior championships and played lead on the province’s team at the 2014 Tim Hortons Brier.
As expected with every new group, there have been some ups and downs.
“But I think I’m relatively happy and happy with our progress as a team and confident in the way the guys have been throwing,” Casey said. “We’re looking forward to a good week here because we could definitely go in the right direction.”