Calgary Stampeders

Stampede Blues: When Elks Outshine Stamps in Tailgating and Touchdowns!

The Calgary Stampeders faced a tough loss against the Edmonton Elks in the Labour Day Classic, but fans still made it a sunny celebration!

The Labour Day Classic is always a thrilling showdown, but this year, the Calgary Stampeders found themselves on the losing side of a 35-20 battle against the Edmonton Elks at McMahon Stadium. Head coach Dave Dickenson admitted to feeling a bit anxious as the Stamps stumbled into this crucial matchup amidst a rocky season. The Elks, ignited by quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson's impressive performance, ultimately dashed the hopes of the local favorites. Tevin Jones pulled in two touchdown passes, turning the game into a showcase of Elks' dominance over the Stampeders.

As the clock ticked down, the once-boisterous home crowd fell silent, reflecting the palpable disappointment that swept through the parking lots, where excited fans had gathered for their beloved tailgating tradition. The sun shone brightly, and despite the on-field misfortunes, long-time supporters of the Stampeders showed up in droves, sporting their colors and chanting, "Go Stamps Go!" They made the most of the Labour Day celebration, proving that while winning is sweet, community spirit is even sweeter.

Excitement kicked off even before the first whistle blew, with the parking lots filled with fans grilling juicy burgers and sipping cold drinks, all while 28,467 people packed into the stadium to witness the anticipated clash. However, the Stampeders simply couldn't match the energy and execution of their rivals. Bethel-Thompson not only yielded three touchdown passes but also racked up an eye-popping 486 yards—making it clear that the Elks came prepared to take home the win. Meanwhile, the Stamps struggled to find their rhythm, showcasing a season filled with ups and downs.

As the game concluded and fans filed out of the stadium, the spirit of healthy rivalry remained intact. For football buffs, the outcome may not have turned in the Stamps' favor, but the legacy of the Labour Day Classic continues to be a cherished part of CFL lore. Did you know that the Calgary Stampeders and Edmonton Elks have been battling it out since 1949, making this one of the longest-running rivalries in professional sports? It’s a fierce competition rooted in tradition and community as both teams vie for supremacy on the field. Furthermore, the tailgating tradition surrounding these matchups has grown so beloved that it's become a pre-game ritual for many fans. Not just a mix of grilled foods and cold drinks, but a unique celebration of camaraderie that even a disappointing loss can’t overshadow—now that’s the spirit of Canadian football!