Braden Holtby’s Tragically Hip masks sells for over $27,000

By Stephen Laroche | Beckett Hockey Editor

While Braden Holtby was not able to get into game action for Canada’s winning squad at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, the mask he wore during warm-ups and practices has accomplished something even greater as it has raised over $27,000.00 at auction.

With a design that meshed Canadian pride with one of the nation’s greatest musical icons, The Tragically Hip, proceeds were to benefit the Gord Downie Fund for Brain Cancer Research and the Gord Downie Secret Path Fund for Truth and Reconciliation.

Downie is battling brain cancer, but went out with his bandmates on a tour during the summer months. Holtby, who is a big fan of the band, decide to honor him on his mask that was specially-created by noted goalie mask artist David Gunnarsson of DaveArt Studios.

“Like so many others, I have been truly inspired by the courage Gord Downie has shown, and I was very appreciative that he embraced the design of my Team Canada goalie mask,” said Holtby in a press release provided by the National Hockey League Players’ Association. “I am very proud to have been a part of supporting these two important funds in Mr. Downie’s honour, and I appreciate everyone’s help in making this auction a success.”

Holtby, who won the Vezina Trophy last year with the Washington Capitals, met Downie following Canada’s victory over Team USA on September 20.

Stephen Laroche is the editor of Beckett Hockey, Beckett Basketball, and Beckett Sports Card Monthly magazines. Have a comment, question or idea? Send an e-mail to him at slaroche@beckett.com or follow him on Twitter @Stephen_Laroche.