Birt enjoying break from curling, but desire to compete remains strong (Guardian)

(by Jason Malloy)

CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. – The skip with the most Prince Edward Island women’s curling titles is not competing at this year’s event but is far from ready to use the “R” word.

Suzanne Birt has won nine of the past 14 Scotties Tournament of Hearts titles since competing in her first provincial women’s championship in 2003.

Skip Suzanne Birt delivers a stone while Marie Christianson, left, and Meaghan Hughes prepare to sweep during the 2016 provincial Scotties in Montague.

©Jason Malloy/The Guardian

She skipped a squad comprised of Robyn MacPhee, Meaghan Hughes and Marie Christianson to the title a year ago, but in April the team members decided to go their separate ways.

“Then I thought it might be a good time to regroup. I didn’t want to start fresh and start with a brand new team again until I was absolutely 100 per cent mentally ready to do it,” Birt said Tuesday, noting she has not retired. “I don’t know when I’ll be returning, maybe next year, who knows?”

This is the first time since Birt was 12 years old that she will not be competing in a provincial championship.

Birt said she was burnt out and needed a little break.

“This has been absolutely great . . . to sit back and see how I really feel … I really do miss it.”

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