Why did I pass up that chance?

Question

In 2004, during the semi-finals of the Flames' Cup Run, the Stanley Cup was on display at Sunridge Mall, right along my route home from work. People could get their photo taken with the Cup. But I didn't go. I thought the lineup would be too long. Even though I had NOTHING else to do that evening.

Now I regret it.

And the Flames aren't doing so well any more.

Will I ever see Stanley again?

Answer 1

Bill

I drove down to the Hotel Sofetel in 1990 (In Bloomington Minnesota) and saw all the "hardware of the NHL" on display in the lobby.

The Stanley Cup:
Presidents' Trophy:
Prince of Wales Trophy:
Clarence S. Campbell Bowl:
Art Ross Trophy:
Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy:
Calder Memorial Trophy:
Conn Smythe Trophy:
Frank J. Selke Trophy:
Hart Memorial Trophy:
Jack Adams Award:
James Norris Memorial Trophy:
King Clancy Memorial Trophy:
Lady Byng Memorial Trophy:
Lester B. Pearson Award:
Lester Patrick Trophy:
Maurice Richard Trophy:
Vezina Trophy:
William M. Jennings Trophy:

It was in this display and though you could not touch them they were all there. It was very cool, and I even teared up a little so my friend and I went in to the Hotel bar and it was full of NHL coaches. I think I was in heaven.

I shook hands with Glen Sonmor, and Badger Bob Johnson, (I got the chance to thank him for bring the cup to Calgary) I know it sounds kind of lame but I thought it totally cool and I am glad that I went out of my way to go.

Answer 2

I've got a worse story for you. After the Rangers won in 1994, the players each got the Cup for a day to carry around with them. (I think this tradition has ended because of damage done to the Cup over time) While at work, I noticed a large crowd at the deli across the street, but didn't take a break to go check it out. The next day when I went in, there was a picture of the deli guys with the Cup. One of the Rangers lived locally and brought it in. I could have gone over and picked it up, had I only known.

If you want to see it, do what I did later. Go up to Toronto to the Hockey hall of Fame, where the real thing is on display, except during the postseason.

Answer 3

Bill, never give up. Sports is/are a viscious
circle. Teams dominate their league for a few
years and then vanish. Then someone else
gets to do their thing. The flames will come
back again and you will see big Stanley some
day. And when it does YOU BETTER NOT
DRIVE BY AND NOT STOP.

Answer 4

if you really feal bad take a trip to toronto and visit the hockey hall of fame the cup is on display for 10 months out of the year and you can get you picture take there

Answer 5

Bill

I like the Flames, that chance will come again. Darryl is a guy who will be successful under the cap system, not having to worry if some 'bigger' market wil pilfer away his players.

So, have faith that the Cup will be in Calgary again. Soonber rather than later.

Answer 6

Jeff is correct. The Stanley Cup tours the NHL cities and often makes additional appearances at various teams' charitable fund raisers. Just keep your eyes open for your next chance.

Answer 7

Sure...you can always check it out on display at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. It is a cool trip and Toronto is a nice place to visit. Calgary probably won't be seeing the cup anytime soon.

Answer 8

Bill, you can come and visit Stanley for the next couple years in Ottawa because the Sens will be winning the cup.....finally.

Answer 9

I think it makes pretty regular tours of every NHL city. Although it only shows up for a day or two and the line-ups as you said are ridiculous (at least in the Canadian cities!)

Answer 10

Good things seem to happen to teams that fire Mike Keenan.
I'd say they're heading in the right direction, at least they hired him which puts them in a position to fire him.