Many Manitobans are saying ‘Go Bombers Go’ this week as they cheer on the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
The team boarded a plane to Hamilton on Monday afternoon for the 109th Grey Cup.
Several fans follow them, eager to see their team compete for the cup. Among those who are fans are Bob Cymbalisty and his wife. The couple will travel to Hamilton to watch the big game on Thursday.
“We like to spend a day afterwards hopefully basking in the glow of a Grey Cup win,” he said. “We have one more job to do – they have to get there and finish that job.” It’s too early to start counting your chickens.”
Others, such as Carol Sangster and John Baillie, throw their own parties closer to home.
“It’s all looking good, and it’s going to be a good game,” Bailie said.
Pony Corral president Peter D. Ginakes says the company is ready to start the party all weekend long for fans who want to get out.
“A lot of people have their beautiful TVs at home too but the excitement will be here,” she said. “People want to be around other people. And if they win, everyone will be cheering.”
Rod Hill, a former Winnipeg Blue Bomber, will be in charge of the festivities at the Pembina Highway location.
“I think it’s pretty exciting for me because I understand those experience,” Hill said in an interview. “I was on that side of the camera being a player and now I’m a fan.”
The Grey Cup is more than just a game for restaurants; it’s big business.
According to Shaun Jeffrey, CEO of the Manitoba Restaurant and Foodservices Association, this applies to both dine-in and takeout.
“We’ve had a rough couple of years,” Jeffrey admitted. “Our industry is very, very big on sports teams because it’s a major driver for our business.”
He expects the buzz from Sunday to linger into Monday.
“People are going to be taking the day off and they’re going to want to be going to a restaurant because maybe they’re not feeling the best so they’re going to be going out to a restaurant to get some last ditch Grey Cup celebrations.”
Brian Paterson, a Bomber season ticket holder for the past 50 years, has been attending games since he was three days old. Grey Cup appearances never get old for him.
“We got a great group of people and great team comradery and what more can you ask for?” Paterson explained. “Well, a win.”
date
Leave a Reply