Loading....
x
robin kuniski/for metro calgary
It was all green as Saskatchewan Roughrider fans came out in force as Calgary celebrated yesterday with the 2009 Grey Cup and Festival kickoff in front of city hall yesterday.
If yesterday’s launch was any indication, Calgary is going to be one big Green Cup party this weekend.
At least, those were the hopes of Saskatchewan Roughriders fans who showed up to city?hall in green jerseys for the kickoff of Grey Cup festivities After driving almost eight hours to get to the city from Pilot Butte, Sask., couple Lionel and Barb Robin said they wouldn’t have missed this party for the world.
“We go every year no matter where it is, but Calgary is a great city, great hosts and everyone has been amazing so far,” Lionel said.
They revelled in the celebratory atmosphere yesterday even though the actual party hasn’t started yet.
“It kind of reminds me of the Calgary Stampede,” Barb said.
While green faces prevailed, there was at least one Montreal Alouette fan sticking out — Montreal-born John Holden.
“This is really special for me. I’m a die-hard Als fan,” Holden said. He explained a medical emergency kept him from attending the last Calgary Grey Cup in 2000. “But here I am now, and so is Montreal,” he added.
Mayor Dave Bronconnier is excited the city is hosting the traditional festival, which began in Calgary more than 60 years ago. “The Grey Cup is one of the most celebrated sports events in Canadian history. More than a football game, it brings Canadians together from across this country,” he said.
|
User Comments & Ratings | Comment as guest | |
| Title: |
| Comment: |
more local stories
Experts warn Facebook users about email scam that claims password has been reset
Another email scam is circulating online trying to ensnare unsuspecting Facebook users into divulging all their passwords.
Rethinking modest: Is Canada's economy ready to take off?
OTTAWA - Foreigners are buying up Canada, the loonie is heading for parity with the American dollar and recent economic indicators are off the map. Could the recovery be outracing expectations?
Police suspect Rizzuto Mob links in brazen Montreal shooting
MONTREAL - A deadly daytime shooting that paralyzed Old Montreal was possibly linked to a violent feud involving Canada's most prominent Mafia family, police sources said Thursday.
Calgary Zoo director resigns
CALGARY - The director of conservation at the Calgary Zoo has called it quits as the facility is reviewed over several animal deaths and high-profile accidents.
Kenney urges against gatekeeper attitude
MONTREAL - Professional associations refusing to recognize the credentials of foreign workers are threatening to slow Canada's economic recovery, Immigration Minister Jason Kenney said Thursday.
editor's picks
The clock may be ticking on CBC's '22 minutes
HALIFAX, N.S. - Is the clock ticking on "22 Minutes"?
NBC behind him, Conan O'Brien in talks with Fox
NEW YORK - The next few months could keep Conan O'Brien very busy.
Facebook users warned about email scam
Another email scam is circulating online trying to ensnare unsuspecting Facebook users into divulging all their passwords.
Thai PM objects to blood-spilling, but open to talks
BANGKOK, Thailand - Thailand's prime minister said Thursday the government was ready to hold talks with protesters, who want him to call new elections, but only if they stop throwing blood, blocking government offices and remain peaceful.
Sudan and Darfur rebel group sign truce
DOHA, Qatar - Sudan's government and a collection of Darfur rebel groups signed a cease-fire Thursday - the second such deal in less than a month with a key rebel faction - opening the way for political negotiations ahead of a full peace agreement.
Copyright 2001-2010, Free Daily News Group Inc.