Two-time Brier champion, Olympic gold medallist and Canadian Sports Hall of Famer Russ Howard was invested as a Member of the Order of Canada on Friday by Governor David Johnston in a ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa.

"Russ Howard has helped raise the profile of curling in Canada and around the world," cited Johnston at the ceremony. "A legendary athlete, he is a two-time Canadian and world champion and a 2006 Olympic gold medallist. Known for his emphatic "hurry hard" on the ice, he also invented the Free Guard Zone, a rule that added strategy and excitement to the game.

"He shares his passion for the game as a coach and mentor, a popular broadcaster and a supporter of many charitable causes."

Howard has been a mainstay with the TSN's curling coverage as an analyst since 2008.

The Order of Canada was created during Canada's centennial year in 1967 honouring outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. 

Two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash of Victoria, B.C. was also a recipient.