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.
