Meet the Minto mechanic who may be Canada's smartest person
A mechanic from Minto may just be the smartest person in Canada, at least according to the CBC game show Canada's Smartest Person.
Brittain Bancroft, who studied criminology at St. Thomas University before becoming a mechanic, said his love of reading has kept him well-rounded, although he's used other terms to describe himself as a kid.
"I was a little geeky. I love computers and all that stuff," said Bancroft.
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Bancroft first thought of trying out for the competition when he saw a call for contestants while on his computer.
"I thought, 'Yeah, that might be fun. I should try doing that,'" said Bancroft.
Bancroft then applied for the competition, which measures six different types of intelligence, but didn't tell anyone he even applied until he had been chosen as one of the contestants.
"I just thought I'd keep it to myself and that way if I didn't get on the show it wasn't a big deal," said Bancroft.
Bancroft describes competing in the show as one of the most fun things he's ever done. While parts of the experience were nerve racking he said he was surprisingly calm.
"I felt so comfortable, which is a little strange because I'm not very comfortable in that kind of situation," said Bancroft.
Since his new-found recognition as one of Canada's smartest people, Bancroft has become something of a celebrity in Minto, a small town about 50 kilometres east of Fredericton.
"I've had so many people come by the shop and say, 'Congratulations' and how much they liked watching the show," said Bancroft
If Bancroft wins the contest — he has four competitors to defeat — $20,000 will be donated in his name to a charity of his choice. He will also have bragging rights and the title, but Bancroft said his favourite prize will be something different.
"I have two brothers so whenever we argue I can start every conversation with, 'Well boys, as Canada's smartest person I feel …,'" said Bancroft.
The finale of the show's third season is scheduled to air on Dec. 18 at 8 p.m.
