GainerGate goes goofy. Gosh, Go Gopher, Go Green Riders!

The Calgary Stampeders have reversed their move to block Gainer the Gopher from the CFL stadium on Sunday, and instead are asking he watch from the stands. No only would he then block the view of spectators behind him, a mascot should have free reign of the field like the cheerleaders do. I enjoyed John Gormley’s suggestion that Gainer dress in a string bikini, and run out onto the field with the Rider’s cheerleaders. Writing the other day about this offense to Rider Nation from Saskatchewan’s second home [Calgary], I suggested that this may have been a move for Albertan’s to feel out how a total Saskatchewan ban would go over.

Unfortunately Gainer is going to Casino Regina for the game, instead of forcing his way into Calgary. I saw on the TV news last night that there is at least one Rider fan going as a large gopher, so I expect the stands to be filled with rodent squeaks, and raucus Rider Pride.

Gainer is my brown rodent idol. He’s made it into Sports Illustrated even.