By Greg Douglas – Dr. Sport

 

SCENE & HEARD: – A couple of Vancouver’s most prominent sporting legends – Jamie Taras and Jyrki Lumme – were back on the Hastings Racecourse scene earlier this week offering their input for the 3rd annual Sports Alumni Day at the Races on Sunday, July 28.

It’s that time of year when former members of the Vancouver Canucks, BC Lions, Vancouver Whitecaps FC and forever popular retired Hastings jockeys pull together as one impressive unit to raise funds for charity.

Taras spent his entire 16-year career in the CFL with the Lions and following his retirement in 2003 the club wisely scooped him up as Director of Community Relations. He was a two-time league all-star and had his Number 60 jersey retired after being named to the Lions all-time ‘DreamTeam’ as part of the club’s 50th anniversary celebration.

Lumme made a similar impact with the NHL Canucks during his nine years in Vancouver as the team’s top offensive defenceman, capped by his brilliant play during the 1994 Stanley Cup that went seven games against the New York Rangers.

Lumme and Taras were quick to jump on board when Sports Alumni Day at the Races was introduced in 2017. Carl Valentine represented the Whitecaps FC and will resume his role upon returning from the UK at the end of the month.

Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, the BC Lions Alumni Foundation Support Fund and Jumpstart Canada are the three designated charities on Sports Alumni Day that is generously supported by Hastings Racecourse management.

This year’s event takes on a more streamlined look with Alumni members gathering in the Trackside Patio and making themselves available for photos and autographs as they make trips to the winner’s circle following races named in honour of each Alumni.

Mascots Fin, Leo and Spike will again be making guest appearances, helping out with a 50/50 draw and silent auction that includes unique Game Day Experiences donated by the Canucks, Lions, Whitecaps FC and Hastings.

There will not be any reserved VIP ticket sales this year. Fans are welcome to enjoy the afternoon at no cost. Make note of the date: Sunday, July 28.