Grey Cup: 6 Things you need to know

While this year’s outdoor sports season slowly winds down in Canada, there are still some huge events on the horizon. With the Grey Cup close at hand, here are 6 things you need to know. Although I am writing this from the perspective of those that live north of the 49th degree parallel, I think there are lessons and information that can apply to many spectator related events.

 In the upcoming days, the Grey Cup will be within sight- the super bowl of the north. The league champion of the Canadian Football League (C.F.L.) will win this coveted trophy. Similar to the game of football played in the USA, the Canadian Football has its quirks and identity that makes it unique to even the most ardent NFL watcher.

The Grey Cup has been fought over since 1909, longer than many other sporting trophies, this year will mark the 107 competition- making it older than the super bowl. It rivals that of the Stanley cup (1893) given out each year for the team exemplifies hockey supremacy each year, and a host of others.

Like any sport, played outdoors, there are a few precautions you should adhere too. Especially when in the Canadian west. Making this is especially true for those that are coming in from different climates. This year’s host city is Calgary Alberta, nestled at the foothills of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Often recognized as being located near some of the most picturesque places in the country- I am sure this is debatable. Perhaps another time or in the comments section as I am always interested in what you have to say.

Try and get to the Game.

After all you bought a ticket and may have traveled hundreds if not thousands of kilometers to get there. Often what can occur, you arrive the day before, check into your hotel room, and the “let the games begin.” Exploring the host city is an excellent adventure, and you should take advantage of it. Restaurants such as Minas Steakhouse as what trip to Calgary is complete without the savory flavors of beef.  If you prefer something  more international, enjoy the ambiance and tradition of The Casbah Restaurant specializing in Moroccan and middle eastern cuisine.

Like the players themselves, this is a long game and you as a spectator are only beginning your “own” first quarter. As I can attest to, there is nothing worse than having to watch the game on the hotel room TV now that you have made the trek to the event. Pace yourself.

Arrive early with your Tickets

You have found that place everyone told you about BrokenCity you had a great time and you survived the evening none the “worse for wear.” Now it is time to make it to the game. Remember this, as it is crucial. Find the location of the stadium ask the concierge before you leave the hotel. Take public transit or a Taxi or Uber; they will get you there, knowing where you are going is very helpful. If possible, arrive early to try and be at the head of the crowds. There will be plenty of people, many of whom like you trying to figure out where to go. Here being courteous is a good idea. Have your ticket available within your hand or on your phone. If you don’t, the person behind you will think you are from Toronto and may make a derogatory remark under their breath-kidding. No matter where you go today, be prepared to be scrutinized by the security staff at the door. To make your entrance as carefree as possible, avoid bringing a backpack or a purse, although a heated cushion may be a good idea.

Dress warmly

Leave fashion behind. Did I hear a deep breath of resignation? On Grey Cup Sunday, even if it is warm, it will be cold. A balmy minus 10 Celsius is not out of the question. However, you should dress for a more reasonable game-time temperature of minus 25 degrees Celsius. For those that live on the Prairies, this will not be noticeable, for the rest of us dress in layers. Remember the way you dressed that last time you went winter camping sleeping in your quinzee? Yes, dress like that. An under wicking layer, this should include thermal underwear and then build from there. Remember no cotton, as it absorbs moisture. Followed by a comfortable “mid-layer,” this is where your pants come in. Lastly, your “top layer.” Coat, hat, gloves, scarf and boots. You may think this to be excessive, but if you get too warm, you can always remove a layer. If you don’t have them, you can’t take them off. The best way to enjoy the game is being warm. https://www.atmosphere.ca/stores/calgary.html

Cocktails and consumption

 Many people feel that why not lose the extra layer of clothes and load up on some events fine libations. Contrary to popular belief, alcohol thins your blood, thus making you colder and more susceptible  to cold. If you anticipate putting a litre of whisky down our esophagus, then this will probably not be a concern until frostbite sets in and you are pleading with your travel companion-very sloppily for assistance. Remember to pace yourself. Two or Three beers per quarter should keep you marry well into the fourth quarter, which may be excessive to some. Besides, you will not need to go to the bathroom as often. After all, you are or should be wearing your “long Johns.” If you have ever needed to go to the washroom quickly while wearing them, you know what I mean. Then add a public toilet, yes fun. For more information regarding alcohol and the cold: https://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/how-drinking-alcohol-makes-you-vulnerable-in-cold-weather/70003691

Etiquette

You are seated comfortably and warm; with a beer in one hand and a box of popcorn in the other. Looking around, you realize right then you have purchased tickets in the section of the other team. Your supporters are on the other side of the field. Wearing Blue in a sea of Green. Yes, awkward at first. Remember that the goal here is to enjoy the game. Some spectators may try to antagonize you, but this is good-hearted “razzing,” “raz” them back or ignore them, don’t take it too seriously. Certainly do not start swearing at your fellow members of the audience, especially if there are children around. 

As the game gets on, you find your team losing the one thing you must not do under any circumstances is being goaded into a fight (This will only happen if you did not pay attention to some of the consumption rules.)

Have fun, but not too much fun. For instance, do not decide to run on the field. Many large men are cold and have been competing for the last couple of hours. Under “NO,” circumstances run onto the playing grounds naked. Humorous as you may think it is, they will not show you on TV, and the large cold men will not be amused. Inevitably, two or three security guards will tackle you. Consider this, at below zero temperatures, your “manhood” will not be at it’s finest. Best of all, when you are trying to explain it to the judge, you will not remember any of it. Except you have no clothes, and you are in the “drunk tank.” ( Again read the consumption section) Note: Women have participated in this folly in the past, it seems reserved for our young men. The same rules apply to all sexes.

The after-party.

That person that is missing their flight home is not you. You had a great time, and you have been warm the entire time. Enjoyed a few “bevies,” and although your team did not win, you made a few friends during the day.

It’s now time to continue with the Grey Cup festivities at some of Calgary’s hottest nightspots like the Kensington Pub to continue for a bite and a cocktail. Followed by and Habitat Living Sound to indulge in some juicy beats. Before you decide to “dance the night away,” consider going back to your room if it is convenient to shed a “layer” if this is not practical, this is another reason to dress in layers. The day is not over, so enjoy, you deserve it. The game is only a game. Your highlight reel starts now. 

Your belly is full, and you have enjoyed one of the most memorable days of your life. You sang “memories” at a karaoke bar- and you weren’t that bad either. You played a game of darts and won for the first time in years, and your new-found companions find you fascinating. Yes, the best day of your life. Unfortunately, the barkeep yells the old familiar: “I don’t know where you’re going, but you can’t stay here.” You leave with your acquaintances, and things are working out very well. 

Call a taxi, schedule an Uber, or, if you must, take public transit. Under no circumstances drive (unless there is a designated driver somewhere.) If you are local, please don’t drive.

Always have a good story to tell.

These few tips will help you enjoy the game, keep you warm, and help you from being “ejected from the game”- both literally and figuratively. Allowing you to arrive home safely so that you can tell all your friends about your (mis)adventures, and remember no good story is without the odd embellishment.

So grab your tickets, armed with some solid tidbits of information and strategy to make this year’s Grey Cup the best one ever. While at the game, take a pic and send it our way (clothes on please) so we can share it with our readers. Needless to say, if you have been to such an event or something similar and would like to share your follies, you know you are always welcome to do so. Please place them in the comments area.

From here to there, and back again.

It’s Your Vacation, Your Escape.

VTE.

*Please note that all pictures in this post are from stock.