ALuCsRED

https://www.cfl.ca/2017/08/21/cfl-means-world-nfler/
Love it when a former CFLer looks back fondly on his time up here. Enjoy!

He's Canadian. He must be part Friendly Giant and part Mr. Dressup too.
 

This week I've been travelling and had the opportunity to catch the Ottawa Redblacks vs Hamilton Tiger-Cats at Tim Horton's Field yesterday.  It was my first time watching a game in Hamilton.  Today, I caught my second game ever in Toronto (Alouettes at Argos).  Last year I got to see the Bombers win @ BMO Field.   I wanted to share my experiences at both venues.  
For both venues, I bought tickets on StubHub.  Tickets supplied are printable pdf's, but both stadiums could scan them off my phone.  There were no Apple wallet or scan code options for either ticket.
Tim Horton's Field
Area and Parking: The drive into the stadium went through a heavy industrial area into  a residential neighbourhood of older row homes.  I got to the game very early (2.5hrs before game time).  Parking was easy to find for $15, about 2 blocks from the stadium at a local grocery store parking lot (Freshco).   Other parking in the area was $20, some of which is on the front yards of the residential properties.
First 1/2 hour: The stadium south gates open 1 1/2  hrs before gametime, but you couldn't walk into seats of the stadium until 1 hr before game time.  The announcer reminds everyone every 10 minutes before the game.  The south concourse was open and had a steam whistle which blew throughout the game, beer gardens with picnic tables (ticketed area), and plenty of open air beer vendors.
1 Hour to Game time: I was seated on the east grandstands.  Walking through the concourse on the east side, I went through a lounge area of patio furniture with an eclectic band (bass, washboard, and guitar?), through a craft beer area with standing bar tables, picked up some fresh chicken tacos, walked past the Coor Light Bar (with DJ and it's own music) and found my seat.  
Gametime:  Big Canada flag, 10 yr old anthem singer (she was very good), flyover with a Hercules midway through the anthem, then again before kickoff.   The game looked like it was the two worst teams in the league playing.  Wait, it was the two worst teams in the league playing.  The seats were comfy.  I was near the 10 yard line.  The seats could be turned towards center field, but aren't.
Crowd: The crowd was all dressed in Ti-cat wear, was loud, thirsty, and boisterous.  The crowd does not deserve an 0-7 team.  They were friendly considering I was decked in Bomber Blue.  
Scoreboard: The only Video board is at the north end and was used in full resolution (no stats or ads on the board).  The music and videos were well produced throughout the evening. There were lots of contests, crowd involvement, videos, and entertainment.
Hamilton "Go-To" Sing Along Song - Like a Rhinestone Cowboy 
Pet Peeve - The DJ's music could be heard at my seat the whole game.  I don't know how this isn't considered artificial noise in the stadium.  It was as loud as bass of  the music between the plays (from the PA system)
Traffic leaving - quick and easy to get out of the area.  
 
BMO Field
Area and Parking: I took the Go Train to the stadium from Mississauga as the Exhibition (CNE) was on.   It's Toronto's version of the Red River Ex.  The train worked well ($14 return), and it was a quick walk into the game. The web was showing $25 to $30 for parking.
1 Hour to Game time:  Walked into the stadium, no tailgating in the normal area due to the lot being taken over for the CNE.  The food was good (chicken tenders) and the 28 oz Stellas beer for $16.25 hit the spot.  The cup, with it's unique lid is great (Look ma, no spills).
Gametime:  Small contingent on the field, much smaller flag pulled out across a part of the field.  Rickey Ray was on fire (vintage 2003 Eskie Rickey Ray finding holes in D).  Durant had one good drive but gave up the INT.  Toronto special teams looked good, MTL not so much (gave up kick return fumble for a quick score TD).  2nd half was only about killing time.  Seats are uncomfortable and there are no cup holders.   
Crowd:  West side looked quite empty.  Upper deck on the east side was more filled.  The seats on the east side at field level looked sweet.  Some guy on the west side had an air horn which he pumped.  You could hear the thing through the whole stadium.a
Scoreboard:  I was further away, but the board is much smaller at BMO.  Only one screen at the north end.  T
Toronto "Go-To" Sing Along Song - didn't notice one
Pet Peeve - I had to go to the main concourse for 50/50 tickets.  Apparently the wifi didn't work at the upper levels.  A runner up pet peeve is that the 28 oz beers are not sold after halftime.  
Traffic leaving - Busy lineups at the train, but with the CNE, not sure whether everyone was from the game or the fair.
 
 
 
 
 
 

This week I've been travelling and had the opportunity to catch the Ottawa Redblacks vs Hamilton Tiger-Cats at Tim Horton's Field yesterday.  It was my first time watching a game in Hamilton.  Today, I caught my second game ever in Toronto (Alouettes at Argos).  Last year I got to see the Bombers win @ BMO Field.   I wanted to share my experiences at both venues.  
For both venues, I bought tickets on StubHub.  Tickets supplied are printable pdf's, but both stadiums could scan them off my phone.  There were no Apple wallet or scan code options for either ticket.
Tim Horton's Field
Area and Parking: The drive into the stadium went through a heavy industrial area into  a residential neighbourhood of older row homes.  I got to the game very early (2.5hrs before game time).  Parking was easy to find for $15, about 2 blocks from the stadium at a local grocery store parking lot (Freshco).   Other parking in the area was $20, some of which is on the front yards of the residential properties.
First 1/2 hour: The stadium south gates open 1 1/2  hrs before gametime, but you couldn't walk into seats of the stadium until 1 hr before game time.  The announcer reminds everyone every 10 minutes before the game.  The south concourse was open and had a steam whistle which blew throughout the game, beer gardens with picnic tables (ticketed area), and plenty of open air beer vendors.
1 Hour to Game time: I was seated on the east grandstands.  Walking through the concourse on the east side, I went through a lounge area of patio furniture with an eclectic band (bass, washboard, and guitar?), through a craft beer area with standing bar tables, picked up some fresh chicken tacos, walked past the Coor Light Bar (with DJ and it's own music) and found my seat.  
Gametime:  Big Canada flag, 10 yr old anthem singer (she was very good), flyover with a Hercules midway through the anthem, then again before kickoff.   The game looked like it was the two worst teams in the league playing.  Wait, it was the two worst teams in the league playing.  The seats were comfy.  I was near the 10 yard line.  The seats could be turned towards center field, but aren't.
Crowd: The crowd was all dressed in Ti-cat wear, was loud, thirsty, and boisterous.  The crowd does not deserve an 0-7 team.  They were friendly considering I was decked in Bomber Blue.  
Scoreboard: The only Video board is at the north end and was used in full resolution (no stats or ads on the board).  The music and videos were well produced throughout the evening. There were lots of contests, crowd involvement, videos, and entertainment.
Hamilton "Go-To" Sing Along Song - Like a Rhinestone Cowboy 
Pet Peeve - The DJ's music could be heard at my seat the whole game.  I don't know how this isn't considered artificial noise in the stadium.  It was as loud as bass of  the music between the plays (from the PA system)
Traffic leaving - quick and easy to get out of the area.  
 
BMO Field
Area and Parking: I took the Go Train to the stadium from Mississauga as the Exhibition (CNE) was on.   It's Toronto's version of the Red River Ex.  The train worked well ($14 return), and it was a quick walk into the game. The web was showing $25 to $30 for parking.
1 Hour to Game time:  Walked into the stadium, no tailgating in the normal area due to the lot being taken over for the CNE.  The food was good (chicken tenders) and the 28 oz Stellas beer for $16.25 hit the spot.  The cup, with it's unique lid is great (Look ma, no spills).
Gametime:  Small contingent on the field, much smaller flag pulled out across a part of the field.  Rickey Ray was on fire (vintage 2003 Eskie Rickey Ray finding holes in D).  Durant had one good drive but gave up the INT.  Toronto special teams looked good, MTL not so much (gave up kick return fumble for a quick score TD).  2nd half was only about killing time.  Seats are uncomfortable and there are no cup holders.   
Crowd:  West side looked quite empty.  Upper deck on the east side was more filled.  The seats on the east side at field level looked sweet.  Some guy on the west side had an air horn which he pumped.  You could hear the thing through the whole stadium.a
Scoreboard:  I was further away, but the board is much smaller at BMO.  Only one screen at the north end.  T
Toronto "Go-To" Sing Along Song - didn't notice one
Pet Peeve - I had to go to the main concourse for 50/50 tickets.  Apparently the wifi didn't work at the upper levels.  A runner up pet peeve is that the 28 oz beers are not sold after halftime.  
Traffic leaving - Busy lineups at the train, but with the CNE, not sure whether everyone was from the game or the fair.
 
 
 
 
 
 

This week I've been travelling and had the opportunity to catch the Ottawa Redblacks vs Hamilton Tiger-Cats at Tim Horton's Field yesterday.  It was my first time watching a game in Hamilton.  Today, I caught my second game ever in Toronto (Alouettes at Argos).  Last year I got to see the Bombers win @ BMO Field.   I wanted to share my experiences at both venues.  
For both venues, I bought tickets on StubHub.  Tickets supplied are printable pdf's, but both stadiums could scan them off my phone.  There were no Apple wallet or scan code options for either ticket.
Tim Horton's Field
Area and Parking: The drive into the stadium went through a heavy industrial area into  a residential neighbourhood of older row homes.  I got to the game very early (2.5hrs before game time).  Parking was easy to find for $15, about 2 blocks from the stadium at a local grocery store parking lot (Freshco).   Other parking in the area was $20, some of which is on the front yards of the residential properties.
First 1/2 hour: The stadium south gates open 1 1/2  hrs before gametime, but you couldn't walk into seats of the stadium until 1 hr before game time.  The announcer reminds everyone every 10 minutes before the game.  The south concourse was open and had a steam whistle which blew throughout the game, beer gardens with picnic tables (ticketed area), and plenty of open air beer vendors.
1 Hour to Game time: I was seated on the east grandstands.  Walking through the concourse on the east side, I went through a lounge area of patio furniture with an eclectic band (bass, washboard, and guitar?), through a craft beer area with standing bar tables, picked up some fresh chicken tacos, walked past the Coor Light Bar (with DJ and it's own music) and found my seat.  
Gametime:  Big Canada flag, 10 yr old anthem singer (she was very good), flyover with a Hercules midway through the anthem, then again before kickoff.   The game looked like it was the two worst teams in the league playing.  Wait, it was the two worst teams in the league playing.  The seats were comfy.  I was near the 10 yard line.  The seats could be turned towards center field, but aren't.
Crowd: The crowd was all dressed in Ti-cat wear, was loud, thirsty, and boisterous.  The crowd does not deserve an 0-7 team.  They were friendly considering I was decked in Bomber Blue.  
Scoreboard: The only Video board is at the north end and was used in full resolution (no stats or ads on the board).  The music and videos were well produced throughout the evening. There were lots of contests, crowd involvement, videos, and entertainment.
Hamilton "Go-To" Sing Along Song - Like a Rhinestone Cowboy 
Pet Peeve - The DJ's music could be heard at my seat the whole game.  I don't know how this isn't considered artificial noise in the stadium.  It was as loud as bass of  the music between the plays (from the PA system)
Traffic leaving - quick and easy to get out of the area.  
 
BMO Field
Area and Parking: I took the Go Train to the stadium from Mississauga as the Exhibition (CNE) was on.   It's Toronto's version of the Red River Ex.  The train worked well ($14 return), and it was a quick walk into the game. The web was showing $25 to $30 for parking.
1 Hour to Game time:  Walked into the stadium, no tailgating in the normal area due to the lot being taken over for the CNE.  The food was good (chicken tenders) and the 28 oz Stellas beer for $16.25 hit the spot.  The cup, with it's unique lid is great (Look ma, no spills).
Gametime:  Small contingent on the field, much smaller flag pulled out across a part of the field.  Rickey Ray was on fire (vintage 2003 Eskie Rickey Ray finding holes in D).  Durant had one good drive but gave up the INT.  Toronto special teams looked good, MTL not so much (gave up kick return fumble for a quick score TD).  2nd half was only about killing time.  Seats are uncomfortable and there are no cup holders.   
Crowd:  West side looked quite empty.  Upper deck on the east side was more filled.  The seats on the east side at field level looked sweet.  Some guy on the west side had an air horn which he pumped.  You could hear the thing through the whole stadium.a
Scoreboard:  I was further away, but the board is much smaller at BMO.  Only one screen at the north end.  T
Toronto "Go-To" Sing Along Song - didn't notice one
Pet Peeve - I had to go to the main concourse for 50/50 tickets.  Apparently the wifi didn't work at the upper levels.  A runner up pet peeve is that the 28 oz beers are not sold after halftime.  
Traffic leaving - Busy lineups at the train, but with the CNE, not sure whether everyone was from the game or the fair.
 
 
 
 
 
 

This week I've been travelling and had the opportunity to catch the Ottawa Redblacks vs Hamilton Tiger-Cats at Tim Horton's Field yesterday.  It was my first time watching a game in Hamilton.  Today, I caught my second game ever in Toronto (Alouettes at Argos).  Last year I got to see the Bombers win @ BMO Field.   I wanted to share my experiences at both venues.  
For both venues, I bought tickets on StubHub.  Tickets supplied are printable pdf's, but both stadiums could scan them off my phone.  There were no Apple wallet or scan code options for either ticket.
Tim Horton's Field
Area and Parking: The drive into the stadium went through a heavy industrial area into  a residential neighbourhood of older row homes.  I got to the game very early (2.5hrs before game time).  Parking was easy to find for $15, about 2 blocks from the stadium at a local grocery store parking lot (Freshco).   Other parking in the area was $20, some of which is on the front yards of the residential properties.
First 1/2 hour: The stadium south gates open 1 1/2  hrs before gametime, but you couldn't walk into seats of the stadium until 1 hr before game time.  The announcer reminds everyone every 10 minutes before the game.  The south concourse was open and had a steam whistle which blew throughout the game, beer gardens with picnic tables (ticketed area), and plenty of open air beer vendors.
1 Hour to Game time: I was seated on the east grandstands.  Walking through the concourse on the east side, I went through a lounge area of patio furniture with an eclectic band (bass, washboard, and guitar?), through a craft beer area with standing bar tables, picked up some fresh chicken tacos, walked past the Coor Light Bar (with DJ and it's own music) and found my seat.  
Gametime:  Big Canada flag, 10 yr old anthem singer (she was very good), flyover with a Hercules midway through the anthem, then again before kickoff.   The game looked like it was the two worst teams in the league playing.  Wait, it was the two worst teams in the league playing.  The seats were comfy.  I was near the 10 yard line.  The seats could be turned towards center field, but aren't.
Crowd: The crowd was all dressed in Ti-cat wear, was loud, thirsty, and boisterous.  The crowd does not deserve an 0-7 team.  They were friendly considering I was decked in Bomber Blue.  
Scoreboard: The only Video board is at the north end and was used in full resolution (no stats or ads on the board).  The music and videos were well produced throughout the evening. There were lots of contests, crowd involvement, videos, and entertainment.
Hamilton "Go-To" Sing Along Song - Like a Rhinestone Cowboy 
Pet Peeve - The DJ's music could be heard at my seat the whole game.  I don't know how this isn't considered artificial noise in the stadium.  It was as loud as bass of  the music between the plays (from the PA system)
Traffic leaving - quick and easy to get out of the area.  
 
BMO Field
Area and Parking: I took the Go Train to the stadium from Mississauga as the Exhibition (CNE) was on.   It's Toronto's version of the Red River Ex.  The train worked well ($14 return), and it was a quick walk into the game. The web was showing $25 to $30 for parking.
1 Hour to Game time:  Walked into the stadium, no tailgating in the normal area due to the lot being taken over for the CNE.  The food was good (chicken tenders) and the 28 oz Stellas beer for $16.25 hit the spot.  The cup, with it's unique lid is great (Look ma, no spills).
Gametime:  Small contingent on the field, much smaller flag pulled out across a part of the field.  Rickey Ray was on fire (vintage 2003 Eskie Rickey Ray finding holes in D).  Durant had one good drive but gave up the INT.  Toronto special teams looked good, MTL not so much (gave up kick return fumble for a quick score TD).  2nd half was only about killing time.  Seats are uncomfortable and there are no cup holders.   
Crowd:  West side looked quite empty.  Upper deck on the east side was more filled.  The seats on the east side at field level looked sweet.  Some guy on the west side had an air horn which he pumped.  You could hear the thing through the whole stadium.a
Scoreboard:  I was further away, but the board is much smaller at BMO.  Only one screen at the north end.  T
Toronto "Go-To" Sing Along Song - didn't notice one
Pet Peeve - I had to go to the main concourse for 50/50 tickets.  Apparently the wifi didn't work at the upper levels.  A runner up pet peeve is that the 28 oz beers are not sold after halftime.  
Traffic leaving - Busy lineups at the train, but with the CNE, not sure whether everyone was from the game or the fair.
 
 
 
 
 
 

I tried last year when I went to the Bombers game at BMO field.  He wasn't checking the MBB board all that much at that time.  It all worked out though.  I ended up spending halftime chatting with Wade Miller and Ryan Fry in a suite.  

This week I've been travelling and had the opportunity to catch the Ottawa Redblacks vs Hamilton Tiger-Cats at Tim Horton's Field yesterday.  It was my first time watching a game in Hamilton.  Today, I caught my second game ever in Toronto (Alouettes at Argos).  Last year I got to see the Bombers win @ BMO Field.   I wanted to share my experiences at both venues.  
For both venues, I bought tickets on StubHub.  Tickets supplied are printable pdf's, but both stadiums could scan them off my phone.  There were no Apple wallet or scan code options for either ticket.
Tim Horton's Field
Area and Parking: The drive into the stadium went through a heavy industrial area into  a residential neighbourhood of older row homes.  I got to the game very early (2.5hrs before game time).  Parking was easy to find for $15, about 2 blocks from the stadium at a local grocery store parking lot (Freshco).   Other parking in the area was $20, some of which is on the front yards of the residential properties.
First 1/2 hour: The stadium south gates open 1 1/2  hrs before gametime, but you couldn't walk into seats of the stadium until 1 hr before game time.  The announcer reminds everyone every 10 minutes before the game.  The south concourse was open and had a steam whistle which blew throughout the game, beer gardens with picnic tables (ticketed area), and plenty of open air beer vendors.
1 Hour to Game time: I was seated on the east grandstands.  Walking through the concourse on the east side, I went through a lounge area of patio furniture with an eclectic band (bass, washboard, and guitar?), through a craft beer area with standing bar tables, picked up some fresh chicken tacos, walked past the Coor Light Bar (with DJ and it's own music) and found my seat.  
Gametime:  Big Canada flag, 10 yr old anthem singer (she was very good), flyover with a Hercules midway through the anthem, then again before kickoff.   The game looked like it was the two worst teams in the league playing.  Wait, it was the two worst teams in the league playing.  The seats were comfy.  I was near the 10 yard line.  The seats could be turned towards center field, but aren't.
Crowd: The crowd was all dressed in Ti-cat wear, was loud, thirsty, and boisterous.  The crowd does not deserve an 0-7 team.  They were friendly considering I was decked in Bomber Blue.  
Scoreboard: The only Video board is at the north end and was used in full resolution (no stats or ads on the board).  The music and videos were well produced throughout the evening. There were lots of contests, crowd involvement, videos, and entertainment.
Hamilton "Go-To" Sing Along Song - Like a Rhinestone Cowboy 
Pet Peeve - The DJ's music could be heard at my seat the whole game.  I don't know how this isn't considered artificial noise in the stadium.  It was as loud as bass of  the music between the plays (from the PA system)
Traffic leaving - quick and easy to get out of the area.  
 
BMO Field
Area and Parking: I took the Go Train to the stadium from Mississauga as the Exhibition (CNE) was on.   It's Toronto's version of the Red River Ex.  The train worked well ($14 return), and it was a quick walk into the game. The web was showing $25 to $30 for parking.
1 Hour to Game time:  Walked into the stadium, no tailgating in the normal area due to the lot being taken over for the CNE.  The food was good (chicken tenders) and the 28 oz Stellas beer for $16.25 hit the spot.  The cup, with it's unique lid is great (Look ma, no spills).
Gametime:  Small contingent on the field, much smaller flag pulled out across a part of the field.  Rickey Ray was on fire (vintage 2003 Eskie Rickey Ray finding holes in D).  Durant had one good drive but gave up the INT.  Toronto special teams looked good, MTL not so much (gave up kick return fumble for a quick score TD).  2nd half was only about killing time.  Seats are uncomfortable and there are no cup holders.   
Crowd:  West side looked quite empty.  Upper deck on the east side was more filled.  The seats on the east side at field level looked sweet.  Some guy on the west side had an air horn which he pumped.  You could hear the thing through the whole stadium.a
Scoreboard:  I was further away, but the board is much smaller at BMO.  Only one screen at the north end.  T
Toronto "Go-To" Sing Along Song - didn't notice one
Pet Peeve - I had to go to the main concourse for 50/50 tickets.  Apparently the wifi didn't work at the upper levels.  A runner up pet peeve is that the 28 oz beers are not sold after halftime.  
Traffic leaving - Busy lineups at the train, but with the CNE, not sure whether everyone was from the game or the fair.
 
 
 
 
 
 

This week I've been travelling and had the opportunity to catch the Ottawa Redblacks vs Hamilton Tiger-Cats at Tim Horton's Field yesterday.  It was my first time watching a game in Hamilton.  Today, I caught my second game ever in Toronto (Alouettes at Argos).  Last year I got to see the Bombers win @ BMO Field.   I wanted to share my experiences at both venues.  
For both venues, I bought tickets on StubHub.  Tickets supplied are printable pdf's, but both stadiums could scan them off my phone.  There were no Apple wallet or scan code options for either ticket.
Tim Horton's Field
Area and Parking: The drive into the stadium went through a heavy industrial area into  a residential neighbourhood of older row homes.  I got to the game very early (2.5hrs before game time).  Parking was easy to find for $15, about 2 blocks from the stadium at a local grocery store parking lot (Freshco).   Other parking in the area was $20, some of which is on the front yards of the residential properties.
First 1/2 hour: The stadium south gates open 1 1/2  hrs before gametime, but you couldn't walk into seats of the stadium until 1 hr before game time.  The announcer reminds everyone every 10 minutes before the game.  The south concourse was open and had a steam whistle which blew throughout the game, beer gardens with picnic tables (ticketed area), and plenty of open air beer vendors.
1 Hour to Game time: I was seated on the east grandstands.  Walking through the concourse on the east side, I went through a lounge area of patio furniture with an eclectic band (bass, washboard, and guitar?), through a craft beer area with standing bar tables, picked up some fresh chicken tacos, walked past the Coor Light Bar (with DJ and it's own music) and found my seat.  
Gametime:  Big Canada flag, 10 yr old anthem singer (she was very good), flyover with a Hercules midway through the anthem, then again before kickoff.   The game looked like it was the two worst teams in the league playing.  Wait, it was the two worst teams in the league playing.  The seats were comfy.  I was near the 10 yard line.  The seats could be turned towards center field, but aren't.
Crowd: The crowd was all dressed in Ti-cat wear, was loud, thirsty, and boisterous.  The crowd does not deserve an 0-7 team.  They were friendly considering I was decked in Bomber Blue.  
Scoreboard: The only Video board is at the north end and was used in full resolution (no stats or ads on the board).  The music and videos were well produced throughout the evening. There were lots of contests, crowd involvement, videos, and entertainment.
Hamilton "Go-To" Sing Along Song - Like a Rhinestone Cowboy 
Pet Peeve - The DJ's music could be heard at my seat the whole game.  I don't know how this isn't considered artificial noise in the stadium.  It was as loud as bass of  the music between the plays (from the PA system)
Traffic leaving - quick and easy to get out of the area.  
 
BMO Field
Area and Parking: I took the Go Train to the stadium from Mississauga as the Exhibition (CNE) was on.   It's Toronto's version of the Red River Ex.  The train worked well ($14 return), and it was a quick walk into the game. The web was showing $25 to $30 for parking.
1 Hour to Game time:  Walked into the stadium, no tailgating in the normal area due to the lot being taken over for the CNE.  The food was good (chicken tenders) and the 28 oz Stellas beer for $16.25 hit the spot.  The cup, with it's unique lid is great (Look ma, no spills).
Gametime:  Small contingent on the field, much smaller flag pulled out across a part of the field.  Rickey Ray was on fire (vintage 2003 Eskie Rickey Ray finding holes in D).  Durant had one good drive but gave up the INT.  Toronto special teams looked good, MTL not so much (gave up kick return fumble for a quick score TD).  2nd half was only about killing time.  Seats are uncomfortable and there are no cup holders.   
Crowd:  West side looked quite empty.  Upper deck on the east side was more filled.  The seats on the east side at field level looked sweet.  Some guy on the west side had an air horn which he pumped.  You could hear the thing through the whole stadium.a
Scoreboard:  I was further away, but the board is much smaller at BMO.  Only one screen at the north end.  T
Toronto "Go-To" Sing Along Song - didn't notice one
Pet Peeve - I had to go to the main concourse for 50/50 tickets.  Apparently the wifi didn't work at the upper levels.  A runner up pet peeve is that the 28 oz beers are not sold after halftime.  
Traffic leaving - Busy lineups at the train, but with the CNE, not sure whether everyone was from the game or the fair.
 
 
 
 
 
 

This week I've been travelling and had the opportunity to catch the Ottawa Redblacks vs Hamilton Tiger-Cats at Tim Horton's Field yesterday.  It was my first time watching a game in Hamilton.  Today, I caught my second game ever in Toronto (Alouettes at Argos).  Last year I got to see the Bombers win @ BMO Field.   I wanted to share my experiences at both venues.  
For both venues, I bought tickets on StubHub.  Tickets supplied are printable pdf's, but both stadiums could scan them off my phone.  There were no Apple wallet or scan code options for either ticket.
Tim Horton's Field
Area and Parking: The drive into the stadium went through a heavy industrial area into  a residential neighbourhood of older row homes.  I got to the game very early (2.5hrs before game time).  Parking was easy to find for $15, about 2 blocks from the stadium at a local grocery store parking lot (Freshco).   Other parking in the area was $20, some of which is on the front yards of the residential properties.
First 1/2 hour: The stadium south gates open 1 1/2  hrs before gametime, but you couldn't walk into seats of the stadium until 1 hr before game time.  The announcer reminds everyone every 10 minutes before the game.  The south concourse was open and had a steam whistle which blew throughout the game, beer gardens with picnic tables (ticketed area), and plenty of open air beer vendors.
1 Hour to Game time: I was seated on the east grandstands.  Walking through the concourse on the east side, I went through a lounge area of patio furniture with an eclectic band (bass, washboard, and guitar?), through a craft beer area with standing bar tables, picked up some fresh chicken tacos, walked past the Coor Light Bar (with DJ and it's own music) and found my seat.  
Gametime:  Big Canada flag, 10 yr old anthem singer (she was very good), flyover with a Hercules midway through the anthem, then again before kickoff.   The game looked like it was the two worst teams in the league playing.  Wait, it was the two worst teams in the league playing.  The seats were comfy.  I was near the 10 yard line.  The seats could be turned towards center field, but aren't.
Crowd: The crowd was all dressed in Ti-cat wear, was loud, thirsty, and boisterous.  The crowd does not deserve an 0-7 team.  They were friendly considering I was decked in Bomber Blue.  
Scoreboard: The only Video board is at the north end and was used in full resolution (no stats or ads on the board).  The music and videos were well produced throughout the evening. There were lots of contests, crowd involvement, videos, and entertainment.
Hamilton "Go-To" Sing Along Song - Like a Rhinestone Cowboy 
Pet Peeve - The DJ's music could be heard at my seat the whole game.  I don't know how this isn't considered artificial noise in the stadium.  It was as loud as bass of  the music between the plays (from the PA system)
Traffic leaving - quick and easy to get out of the area.  
 
BMO Field
Area and Parking: I took the Go Train to the stadium from Mississauga as the Exhibition (CNE) was on.   It's Toronto's version of the Red River Ex.  The train worked well ($14 return), and it was a quick walk into the game. The web was showing $25 to $30 for parking.
1 Hour to Game time:  Walked into the stadium, no tailgating in the normal area due to the lot being taken over for the CNE.  The food was good (chicken tenders) and the 28 oz Stellas beer for $16.25 hit the spot.  The cup, with it's unique lid is great (Look ma, no spills).
Gametime:  Small contingent on the field, much smaller flag pulled out across a part of the field.  Rickey Ray was on fire (vintage 2003 Eskie Rickey Ray finding holes in D).  Durant had one good drive but gave up the INT.  Toronto special teams looked good, MTL not so much (gave up kick return fumble for a quick score TD).  2nd half was only about killing time.  Seats are uncomfortable and there are no cup holders.   
Crowd:  West side looked quite empty.  Upper deck on the east side was more filled.  The seats on the east side at field level looked sweet.  Some guy on the west side had an air horn which he pumped.  You could hear the thing through the whole stadium.a
Scoreboard:  I was further away, but the board is much smaller at BMO.  Only one screen at the north end.  T
Toronto "Go-To" Sing Along Song - didn't notice one
Pet Peeve - I had to go to the main concourse for 50/50 tickets.  Apparently the wifi didn't work at the upper levels.  A runner up pet peeve is that the 28 oz beers are not sold after halftime.  
Traffic leaving - Busy lineups at the train, but with the CNE, not sure whether everyone was from the game or the fair.
 
 
 
 
 
 

https://d3ham790trbkqy.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2017/08/ArgosDepth_atMTLAug19.pdf
looks like he's injured.

which one of the hundred people there are you?  Wave and yell "Hey KBF!" the next time the camera focuses on the three people in your section.

He's Canadian. He must be part Friendly Giant and part Mr. Dressup too.
 

Jon Gott is part Gandalf, Hagrid, Santa Claus, Davy Jones.  -Rod Black

Nice crowd, perfect weather, double flyover......
Bombers take opening drive right down the Esks 6...
2nd down trick play...Adams to Nichols, ends with Adams sacked...
....far too cute, when you have meat and potatoed it, right down the field....
Heath makes perfect read....then flat out drops INT, probably for 6...
Nice run/pass balance for the Bombers so far, moving ball well.....
...but holding penalties on back to back series....stall those...
The Harris/Flanders sets, have the Moes LB's back on their heels....
Nice to have TWO backs who can get the YAC.....
Pretty intense out there.....plenty of thumping....
Speaking of that, Mike Miller really likes to thump....
Esksies get off a drive that stalls at the  Bomber 30..
FG missed....Lankford gets huge return to midfield.....
...wiped out by illegal block on Knox....who has taken a few, this year....
Blue take ball....Nichols works short zone to Thorpe, Harris, Denmark..
Harris crashes through again....down deep, but fumbles the ball
Dumb trick play, dropped  INT, penalties...and a fumble.....
....only Bomber mistakes keeping the Moes in this one.....
Eskimos struggling on O......
Tons of YAC, from  Bombers....Thorpe is like a 3rd running backs...
Harris runs over some people, Thorpe runs over some more.....
The Fever plunges in for  6....while Bomber O almost runs up into stands...
10-0 Blue.  Only.  Despite completely dominating this game...
This Perkins is a pretty good RB , for Edmonton.....
Esks run sweep on 3rd and 1 for good yardage.....
Reilly chucks it up the sidelines...for Deke Williams.....
....who makes circus catch, between Roc/Walker double team....
D gets the hold.....FG makes it 10-3 Bombers...
Nichols is sacked, Blue takes ANOTHER holding penalty....
Rielly heaves another pass down the sideline, with 35 sec. in half...
Randle has the blanket coverage.....and the interception.....
Harris rips another one.....Nichols puts up jump ball in end zone.....
Adams goes up .....and comes down, with the 6....with 9 seconds left
17-3.....better reflection of the run of play......20 first downs for O.
Perkins still running effectively, inside....good looking RB.
Reilly bombs away to  K. Stafford, who beats the Roc for the ball.   TD.
...this Roc experiment is getting on my nerves.....
Harris with another 20+ yd gain.....Flanders breaks more tackles
It may be ole school....but these two RB sets....really have D on their heels...
Combo of hurry up and quick snaps.....is also befuddling the Esks....
....as they take their 3rd Too Many Men call......
Edmonton OL doing pretty good job on pass pro.....
Reilly makes crappy throw into double coverage.......
Somehow Walker and Loffler...cant knock down the ball......
....with the Duke grabbing it, while lying on the ground......for the TD
Somehow it is only   24-17 Bombers.....
Big 2nd pass to Adams for 35.....Harris blasts up the gut, for 20 more....
Drive stalls....Medlock hits shorty FG.  27-17....
Hurl blows hot and cold.....good plays and bad....
Nichols sacked.....Medlock pulls 51 yd attempt.....wide...
Harris closing in on the double 100.....running AND receiving....
Thorpe really getting involved, in this O....more good YAC....
Moes take ANOTHER 13th man.....down to the red zone....
Bombers can't punch it in, again....Medlock makes it 30-17
Things looking good.....until Watson takes short toss.....
Runs right by 2 guys.....Loffler misses tackle as well....
....75 yds on that, inside the 5.....
Handful of big plays gashing the Bomber D......
Harris-Flanders-Harris......first downs....
Bombers killing clock....and grinding out the yards.....
Medlock 33 yarder....puts it it to 33-23.....minute and half, left.
Loffler clinching INT.....wiped out by inane IC, against Heath....
Rielly still standing in there.....completes 5 passes......
Heath almost has another pick.....better hands...he would have about 10.
3rd and inches, Moes elect to FG....as time running out.....33-26
Short kick goes directly to Adams.....game....
Down goes the Eskimo perfect season!
Down goes the IGF curse!
Down goes the gin!
560 yds on O.....38 first downs....Nichols 360 Passing
....no IN's  ....fanatic 38 minutes of TOP.
Really have to tighten up in the back end on D....
This game was better...... than the score looked....
The  gin was better ....than the bottle looked....



 

100% agreed. 0 value added, whatsoever.

Bye - Calgary 
Drew Edwards  -  #Ticats conform signing of OL Tony Washington, release REC Kevin Elliott, QB Logan Kilgore, OL Quinterrius Eatmon, DB Ethan Davis. #CFL
Timothy Flanders  -  I would like to be called by my birth name which is Timothy ! Not Tim ! Definitely not Timmy
Matt Baker BC Lions  -  Two days after announcing the return of Ricky Foley, the BC Lions are bringing back another familiar face. Non-import offensive lineman Andrew Jones has agreed to a contract with the club for the remainder of this season.
The Toronto native was selected by the Lions in round four (32nd overall) of the 2007 CFL Draft and went on to appear in 31 regular season games from 2009 to 2011.
The club also announced the release of import quarterback Jake Heaps from the practice roster
Johnny Manziel said the Canadian Football League “is definitely something I’ve looked into,” but that he still hopes to play in the NFL. He has been out of the league since the Cleveland Browns released him last year amid several off-field issues.
Craig T Smith  - (scouting)  -  Made it to Cincinnati. Bengals tomorrow. Dinner At Just Q'in with my brother JM! #gobombers… instagram.com/p/BXjR7vDjl2p/
Terri Worth  -  For the people bitching about water at new mosaic, water is $5.50 at Rogers Centre and you can't bring your own in @rodpedersen #RiderNation
Bob Irving  -  When Bo Levi Mitchell hears Jay Cutler is getting 10 million he must feel like puking.
Derek Taylor  -  I don't know much, but I know this: There's no one better than @Gelliman82 at drawing PI/Ill contact calls. Already 7 this season! #Details (That would be Greg Ellington)
3downnation   -  #Riders draft pick, Canadian tight end Antony Auclair shining in Florida heat 3downnation.com/2017/08/09/can… #TampaBay #Buccaneers #Bucs #NFL
Darren Cameron   -  Last Friday's game (Ottawa) winning field goal was Medlock's third walk-off winner in his 24 regular season games since signing as free agent.
CFL News  -  Net offence this season is currently at 756 yards per game – the second-highest since 1991. - @CFL_PR
-?stat for #RNation fans: @REDBLACKS, ONLY team in #CFL history to have each of their first 7 games in a season all decided by 5 pts or less.
-This season, games are averaging 624 passing yards per game – a 30% increase from 2014. - @CFL_PR #CFL
-The #CFL's interception rate is just 2%, the lowest it’s ever been (one in every 49 pass attempts). The rate in the 1990s was double: 4%.
Farhan Lalji  -  Foley also received a late offer from another #CFL team in East. Felt like he still owed something to #BCLions. @CFLonTSN
"It's gotta be 100%, and if it's 99.9% it's not right."  -  Matt Coates on working with Medlock
?‍?The Saskatchewan Roughriders were unsuccessful in petitioning the CFL to allow them to ‘suspend’ the goal posts in the air to prevent further ‘picks’ on their defenders in the future.
?‍? The Bombers have taken an astounding 22 less penalties to this point, compared to last year. 163 yards less.
Rod Pedersen  -  A fire alarm at Rider practice forced fans to evacuate the stadium.??
?‍? Somebody had mentioned that it was a sneaky way to have another closed practice??
Craig T Smith  -  Breakfast with my buddy. He's heading East to Houston's camp & I'm heading North to see the Bars vs Broncos 
TSN  -  Eskimos draft pick Smith waived by Colts - Article - TSN: bit.ly/2vROFdQ
Paulo Sentra  -  Avg of 667K ppl watched @Ticats/@EdmontonEsks on ???in Wk 7, the 3rd most-viewed game of 2017. 
Avg of 667K ppl watched @Ticats/@EdmontonEsks on ???in Wk 7, the 3rd most-viewed game of 2017. 
WPG@OTT: 560K 
SSK@BC: 537K 
CGY@TOR: 445K
Robert Dalton  -  I'm surprised the CFL didn't fine the goal post for that tourist hit on Butler
Addison Richards …replying to @EricM_CFL Worked awfully hard for that one catch, while you sat behind a computer screen. Take care.
Gary Lawless  -  I had little use for Ed Hervey and vice versa but getting Reilly was the @cfl deal of the decade
Darrin Bauming  -  In September 2015, Bruce Johnson signed a contract extension through 2018. This move speaks to the DB depth in Walker, Fogg, Carmichael, & Porter.
?‍?Oye- Chris Ackie continues to maintain he used his shoulder on the tackle on Matt Nichols, not his head.
Obby Khan. -  Joe Mack was one of the worst things to happen to the Winnipeg football club in decades!  I was there and I lived it
Blue and Gold CFL  -  Why isn't a stiff arm to the face a hands to the face penalty? #CFL
?‍? All I know, after watching that Friday night game, between Toronto and Montreal, is that somebody owes me a CFL football game to watch…
Bob Irving  -  At the risk of insulting anyone's intelligence, the Argos have zero, as in no, hope of going anywhere without Ricky Ray
?‍? We got a look at a lumbering QB, when the Argos decided to start Jeff Matthews against Montreal. It's going to take a while before I can used to his style of QBing. He is s l o w.
?‍? Flags are flying. Toronto and Montreal combined for 23 penalties for over 220 yards. Total offence for both teams was only 641…
Toronto had a whopping 6 seconds more possession time..
Sounds like former @umbisons OL Geoff Gray could be sticking around with the #Packers per @journalsentinel #Bombers
Huge win as the @fbmanitoba u18 girls upset top seeded Saskatchewan 12-6. #Nationals #FlagFootball
Dave Dawson  -  I can say with very credible sources that OC Ptaszek is not very "widely" respected in the #Ticats locker room. June Jones to take over.
Derek Taylor  -  Nichols is under pressure the least of any CFL QB (19% of dropbacks). When he is, he's sacked the most (on 33% of pressures)#Details
Drew Edwards   -  Apparently there is a "run" component to the "run and shoot" #Ticats
Eric M  -  Although he takes a decent amount of offside calls, Jamaal Westerman's get-off is second-to-none in the CFL. #Bombers
 
Dave Dawson  -  Say what you want about #Ticats D. But, Reilly only put up 317 last week, Mitchell/Buckley 308 previously. #CFLFantasy #DFS
Eric M 
 
Lawless - open secret in @CFL Collaros strains under Austin's leadership. Reinbold was beloved in @Ticats locker room. Kent has some patching to do
?‍?Loud groan emanating west of Winnipeg after the Bomber win…
Shawn Lemon  -  @ChrisRandle_Ad ballin very underrated player arguably best DB in #CFL my opinion tho
Derek Taylor  a. Since joining the Bombers, @UCLAkp7 has made 6 FG in a game 4 times, 7 FG twice. That is herculean.
3downnation   -  Justin Medlock has attempted a whopping fifteen field goals over the past two games, as many as he attempted in the team’s first five games combined. 
?‍? The Bombers have now beaten all the Eastern teams..
Dave Dickenson: Lemar Durant's season is in jeopardy because of his knee injury
3downnation -   Former Montreal and Ottawa defensive back Mitchell White has been waived by the Philadelphia Eagles.
Rob Vanstone   -  Kevin Glenn now has 14 touchdown passes this season, equalling Darian Durant's team-high total for all of last season.
BC Lions Den  -  There is absolutely no way you can start Jennings versus the Stampeders next week. Too important a game, Lulay must start. #BCLions
CFL  - 'I've been released,' Redblacks defensive back Imoan Claiborne posts goo.gl/fb/ApSFzW #RNation #REDBLACKS
Bob Irving  - How in the world does a supposed good team like BC look so bad?
WEEK 9
Edmonton @ Winnipeg Thurs.
Ottawa @ Hamilton Frid.
Calgary @ BC Frid.
Montreal @ Toronto Sat.
Bye Saskatchewan 
 
 

Give it a rest, you don't like em, don't read em.

I appreciate the seperate topic thanks! Why would we get upset anyone for Starting interesting topics. I think we came out relatively unscathed.

Methodical, up-tempo opening drive, ends in Medlock FG.....
Nichols on target, good balance with run and passing.....
Another drive brings on Medlock to make it 6-0....
Blue having some breakdowns in pass pro.....
Corney with the sack, Fogg with big punt return....
But this drive also stalls, Medlock makes it 9-0
Hamilton O looking pretty inept, patrons already booing....
Denmark having a busy first half......
P. Johnson gets the Cats out of a hole, with very dumb penalty...
TiCats promptly drive down the field.....
3 man rush, backed against your end zone?   Didn't work.
Masoli sneaks  in for the 6.   Cats fail on the 2 pointer.  9-6
Blue O gets drive going...but 2nd down pass short of marker...
Well,  at least Medlock will ......get the punt blocked!
Nichols hits Lankford for 30 yd. gain.....
...but yet another 2nd pass that is way short of the marker...
Medlock makes it 12- 6.   Bombers should really be running away....
Chris Randle quietly goes about pretty good business, out there.....
Collaros sacked by Jake Thomas....Fogg busts  big punt return....
....but comes back for holding on the other side of the field.....
Some dumb penalties not  helping the Bomber cause , here...
Collaros laterals to Gable, who  loses handle....Thomas recovers...
Jake Thomas may be a rotation player.....but he does the job, every time...
Passes to Adams and Thorpe...bring it inside the Ham. 10..
JFG drags across the field, uncovered....and waltzes into endzone....
19-6.   Just a bit more killer instinct.....and this one is right in the bag..
Corney getting pretty consistent pass rush, all nite.....
The  Roc sure looks better on the corner, than at half......
Lots of pressure on Big Money Zac....Hamilton  pass  pro is pathetic ...
Medlock makes a 57 YARD FIELD GOAL!!     22-6 for the Blue....
Another drive......another dink on 2nd down......frustrating...
Just a bit more killer ins........nope, Cats block Medlock's punt.
Hurl then picks up apparent fumble and rumbles a mile for the TD...
....but review calls it  incomplete.   Collaros throws a short out.....
....first Heath, then Loffler gass the tackle.....for along  Ham. TD.
You  know what they say about letting a bad team hang around.....
Westerman get his obligatory rouging penalty on failed  2 point  convert
However Gabler is stuffed on next attempt....
Not sold on Knox at LB......at all...
Lankford must think gin is waiting on the sideline,  when returning kicks...
Medlock takes  one  step for "quick kick" and nails it 75 yds.....
Corney really does have some pass rush moves...
Really chitzy PI call on Heath...but  ZC loses 30 yds on recovered fumble..
Another good  return by Fogg.    Harris finding some room running and catching....
But this drive stalls - Medlock hits on his 6th,  making  it 25-12.
Bombers controlling  things, moving ball.....but serious lack of finish....
Leggett strips ball from receiver......Loffler recovers.....
Hamilton roughing on Nichols.   Matt then goes long to the end zone....
...where Adams wins 50-50 ball with great catch.....
That is the kill shot.  32-12.    Or as Rod Black might say....."good nite Hamilton"
Banks.....looking more seedy....than  speedy, this year.....
Zac C. still under siege......Walker dives..... for sideline interception.....
Hammy D out of gas....Blue run game chews up yards and the clock...
Harris  is over 100.....Flanders pounds it in, untouched for 6....
Finally looks like the wax job, this game  should of been, earlier.....
39-12.   In fairness, have seen some 0-7 teams that were better than record.
.....in the case of the Tiger-Cats.......uh, nope.    Hamilton will win another game....
...but  it may take a few weeks.     Do or Die will empty another bottle....
....and it will only take a few drinks.....


 

What's in a tag? He wins for us so what else does matter?

And the true story is that Jade Etienne > Addison Richards.  
2 TDs to 0.  
20 catches to 1.  
276 yds to 12.
Jade is only 27.  Maybe it's time to bring him back.  Heck, Corey Watson was drated at 26.

And the true story is that Jade Etienne > Addison Richards.  
2 TDs to 0.  
20 catches to 1.  
276 yds to 12.
Jade is only 27.  Maybe it's time to bring him back.  Heck, Corey Watson was drated at 26.

And the true story is that Jade Etienne > Addison Richards.  
2 TDs to 0.  
20 catches to 1.  
276 yds to 12.
Jade is only 27.  Maybe it's time to bring him back.  Heck, Corey Watson was drated at 26.

And the true story is that Jade Etienne > Addison Richards.  
2 TDs to 0.  
20 catches to 1.  
276 yds to 12.
Jade is only 27.  Maybe it's time to bring him back.  Heck, Corey Watson was drated at 26.