Left Philadelphia at 4 AM Saturday morning. Through Denver. Arrived in Calgary 2 PM Saturday afternoon. Met up with my brother who came in from Chicago.
Went straight to 17th. Took it all in.
Had nearly identical seats and vantage point to my first trip in 2004. And what I saw seemed to be identical. Weren't really getting dominated so much as every chance for Vancouver went straight in the net. And it is 3-0. You all saw it. On one hand, how is it possible that I traveled nearly 8000 KM in 24 hours to see them get blown out? On the other hand, it's this team and they never ever go quietly. And I/we had history on my side, sort of.
They came back and it is like they had planned it all along. It was like the whole building expected it. Nearly identical to 2004, but then it was 4-3. Trailing in the third period? Saw it on television so many times this year, but seeing it in-person, under these circumstances...goodness gracious. It was like it was scripted.
Spent the next 5 hours on the Red Mile, taking it all in, tying to make up for what I have missed out on all this time not being physically here. Three total trips to Calgary over thousands of games watched/followed. Then got in a cab and went back to the airport, which is where I am now at 5 am local time, getting ready to go back home.
It was definitely the best athletic contest I have ever attended and obviously the most memorable experience, even more so than the Cup in 04. The context plays a big part, but even on its own, about as good as it gets. 36 hours round trip and 8000 KM. 25 years supporting a team that has mostly struggled or underachieved during that time. This team and this trip for me validation and vindication of sorts.
Set to return to Philadelphia 3 PM today. Haven't slept and won't any time soon.
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CORNELL
National Champions: 1967, 1970
CALGARY
Stanley Cup Champions: 1989
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