Boy did I have a lot of fun on Sunday night. i wandered from my abode for a couple of blocks to the iconic Maple Leaf Gardens (MLG) where I witnessed the finals of the CBC driven “Battle of the Blades”. This was an excellent bang for my buck, actually 10 of them. There were former NHL hockey stars paired with former world or Olympic figure skating champions. Quite incredible to see the big lugs being graceful and the tiny ladies exuding power. 

Claude Lemieux & Shae-Lynn Bourne were my favorite as the former hockey grinder displayed a variety of style and artistic flair. Craig Simpson & Jamie Sale were ever so beautiful to look at and the contrast in size was a sight to see. Stephan Richer & Marie France Dubreuil were skating through injury, her back his shoulder, and showed a great closeness in what Richer caled their, “90 seconds of love”.

I was two rows behind the judging console at center ice. I could almost reach out and touch Dick Button, Sandra Bezic and Doug Gilmore, the three judges. Some judging, they gave everybody 6 and let the TV audience decide who is the grand winner. 

These tapings have been going on since July, every Sunday. I should have been here before, it certainly was good entertainment. Next year I’ll be there unless Ryerson/Loblaws makes good on their project and transforms the old building into something new. Like a grocery store/athletic complex. 

Fun night and now time to get back to work.