The Penticton Vees of the Western Hockey League geared up for a practice session before their upcoming game against the Wenatchee Wild from Washington state. Riley Pollock, the team’s communications director, expressed that fans faced a dilemma between the Blue Jays’ World Series and the Vees’ game. The Vees and the Kelowna Rockets have decided to embrace the baseball frenzy by screening the World Series games at their venues.
The Penticton Vees will open the South Okanagan Events Centre early to broadcast the first game, while the Kelowna Rockets will do the same for the second game. Pollock mentioned that it was a straightforward decision to celebrate the Blue Jays while attracting fans to their hockey games. Meanwhile, the Vancouver Canadians, the Blue Jays’ minor league affiliate, organized an exclusive viewing party for their loyal supporters and season ticket holders. However, they plan to host a public watch party for game four at a local pub.
The ongoing strike by B.C.’s public service workers has disrupted liquor distribution in the province. Ian Tostenson, President of the British Columbia Restaurant and Foodservices Association, anticipates a 10 to 15 percent increase in sales due to the World Series, providing relief to the hospitality industry. Tostenson highlighted the community aspect of sports events and the potential economic impact on bars during championships. Despite the excitement surrounding the Blue Jays, sports fever has yet to fully grip West Coast fans or significantly boost bar revenues.
In conclusion, while the World Series may not draw the same level of enthusiasm as hockey or the Super Bowl, it is still a significant event for sports fans and the hospitality industry alike.