November 24, 2012

The Queen’s message to Canadians for the 100th Grey Cup

Jim Morris | CFL.ca

TORONTO — Who knew?

Even Queen Elizabeth is excited about the 100th Grey Cup being played Sunday.

Her Royal Highness has sent a message to Canadians pointing out the links between football and England.

“It is with great pleasure that I extend my sincere best wishes to all Canadians as they prepare to mark the 100th Grey Cup – a trophy first donated by The Earl of Grey in 1909 who served with distinction and pride as Governor-General of Canada from 1909 to 1911,” the Queen said in a message.

“I note with some interest that, on the same weekend that the championship game of the Canadian Football League is being played in Toronto, the city will also play host to the Canadian inter-university sport football contest. The winning team will be the recipient of the Vanier Cup, which is named after another distinguished Governor General – Major-General Georges Vanier. In this way, the link between the Canadian Crown and Canadian football is particularly meaningful – especially in this year when the 100th Grey Cup coincides with my Diamond Jubilee as Queen of Canada.

“I wish all teams, players and fans a most enjoyable weekend.”

There’s no word on who the Queen favours in the game between the Calgary Stampeders and Toronto Argonauts.