Well Calgary, we’re more than half way through, and some of us are suffering Stampede fatigue. This of course can only remedied by continuing to embrace and indulge in the festivities, which has been hard to do the last couple of days due to rain, hail, and generally mucky-muck weather.
For the first time in Stampede’s history, the evening chuckwagon races and Grandstand Show were cancelled due to weather last night.
However, that did not stop me from going to the grounds yesterday, and taking in some of the Stampede’s indoor treats.
I was graciously treated to front row VIP seating at the early evening Acrobatic Ice Show, starring current Olympic gold medalists Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir, Canadian figure skating legend Elvis Stojko, and Calgary’s own Vaughan Chipeur.
For anyone yet to see this rock n’ roll extravaganza on ice, do—if for nothing else than to see the two ice dance cutie pies in their Olympic form.
As a rabid figure skating fan, I was tickled pink to get the opportunity to chat with Tessa and Scott backstage, about everything from mini donuts (which Scott loves), to returning to competitive form come this fall. (Yes, they plan to go to Worlds.)
Elvis and his wife Gladys (who too skates in the show) were also very gracious, happy, and awash in a newlywed glow.
The latter part of the evening saw me at the ‘Dome, taking in the Marching Band competition, where the Calgary Stampede Showband vowed the crowd (to a standing ovation) with their Jesus Christ Superstar field show.
An amazing time was had, despite the rain--and subsequently soaked boots. I even managed to withstand the ever-present and persistent smell of mini-donuts, deep fried Oreos, and funnel cakes. Their 'eat me' taunts were escaped--but just barely.
That being said, I will be back at the grounds tonight, for the highlight of my social calendar: A date with Bon Jovi at the ‘Dome. Oh yeah, and 20,000 other (inconsequential) screaming fans.
Giddy up.