As the sun barely began to rise over Western Canada, dedicated hockey enthusiasts gathered in droves to watch Canada’s thrilling Olympic semifinal clash against Finland. The match, taking place in northern Italy, saw its 7:40 a.m. puck drop challenge fans to rise early—an experience not uncommon for followers of major international sporting events held in distant time zones.
Fans Embrace the Early Start
At the bustling Shark Club Sports Bar and Grill in Vancouver, more than a hundred fans filled the venue, their spirits undeterred by the early hour. The bar was alive with the scent of breakfast tacos, home fries, and bacon, paired with a selection of coffee, Guinness, and mimosas. This gastronomic spread didn’t just fuel their enthusiasm; it created an electric atmosphere, culminating in a nail-biting 3-2 victory for Canada.
Among the crowd was Simon Marshall, a newcomer from Australia, who arrived just the night before. Sporting a Canada jersey, he admitted to feeling the effects of jet lag but was determined to immerse himself in the Canadian hockey culture. “I recently watched the ‘Mighty Ducks’ trilogy again to get a grasp of the game,” he shared. “I’m just a sport lover, so I’m trying to embrace the Winter Olympics.”
The Joy of Shared Experience
For fans like Malik Dhami and John Cookson, there’s something about the communal spirit of watching a game in a packed bar that surpasses the experience of viewing from home. “Sure, we could watch it in the four walls of our own homes,” Dhami noted, “but as a Canadian, you’ve got to come out.” Cookson echoed his sentiments, expressing the need for an environment where they could truly enjoy the game together.
Murray Saunders, the general manager at Shark Club, revealed that the city had altered the bar’s liquor licence for the Olympics, allowing for beer service as early as 5:30 a.m. for upcoming games. “It’s all about cheering on Canada,” he said, shining a light on the sense of unity that drives fans to gather so early in the day.
Camaraderie at Kelly’s Pub
The festive atmosphere was not confined to Vancouver. At Kelly’s Pub in Edmonton, Amelia Carruthers emphasised the importance of the shared experience. “Watching at home doesn’t have the same camaraderie,” she explained, enjoying breakfast with her daughter, Chloe Paré. The buzz of fellow fans cheering and groaning added to the excitement, as she noted the unexpected sight of others indulging in beer so early in the morning.
Nearby, Schyla Courtorielle found a balance between work and play, as she watched the game with friends while her father attended to business on his laptop. “We can plug in and have the game on in the background while still working,” she remarked, highlighting the blend of daily life and Olympic spirit. “We start with breakfast and tea, and once we have some food in our system, then we’ll move to the booze,” she added with a laugh.
The celebration reached a crescendo as fans at Shark Club erupted in song, belting out Stompin’ Tom Connors’ famed “The Hockey Song” in joyous unison following Canada’s win. The energy was palpable, proving that no matter the hour, the love for hockey unites Canadians in a way few other sports can.
Looking Ahead to Gold
With the men’s gold medal match set for a 5 a.m. PT/8 a.m. ET start on Sunday, fans are already buzzing with anticipation. The bar’s bookings for the event are nearly full, showcasing the unwavering dedication of Canadian hockey supporters, ready to wake early once more to cheer on their country.
Why it Matters
The Olympic Games serve as a powerful reminder of the unifying force of sports, particularly in a nation like Canada, where hockey is more than just a game—it’s a part of the cultural fabric. Early morning gatherings, filled with laughter, camaraderie, and shared passion, highlight the lengths to which fans will go to support their teams. As Canada continues its pursuit of Olympic glory, these moments of connection remind us of the power of sport to bring communities together, transcending time zones and personal barriers.
