Canadian superstar Michael Buble has pulled out of his appearance at the Richmond Olympic Oval this weekend.
Buble was due to appear at the oval as part of the Richmond Celebrates Scotiabank Hockey Day in Canada event on Saturday.
He was scheduled to participate in a celebrity ball hockey game.
However, due to other commitments, he has had to withdraw.
Unfortunately, I am unable to attend Hockey Day in Canada next Saturday, he said.
A personal obligation came up that I had forgotten about and I have to go out of the country.
I'm truly sorry that I can't attend. I was very much looking forward to it, as my time playing ball hockey competitively brings back fond memories. I wish all the players luck and I hope the event is a great success for everyone."
Despite the loss of Buble, a stellar line-up of Vancouver Canuck legends will be still be in attendance, including original Canuck captain Orland Kurtenbach, sniper Tony Tanti, all-star defenceman Dave Babych, tough guy Jack McIlhargey and all-time fan favourite Trevor Linden.
They will be there to meet fans and faceoff for a fun game of celebrity ball hockey.
Its just one part of the activities on Feb. 11, with Richmond being chosen as the regional host for the free nationwide event.
Hockey is Canadas national passion and a unifying force for all regions of our country, ages, cultures and backgrounds, said Mayor Malcolm Brodie in an official proclamation.
The City of Richmond wishes to encourage all Richmond residents, visitors and friends to show their love of hockey and join in celebrating Hockey Day in Canada on February 11 by wearing their favourite hockey jersey, wherever they may be.
Large crowds are expected for the event on Saturday. Those planning to attend are warned that there will be no public parking available at the oval.
Free public parking is available nearby, however attendees are encouraged to use transit, walk, cycle or car pool. Details on transportation options and a complete event schedule are available at: www.richmondoval.ca/hockeyday
Event highlights include:
* A chance to Shoot To Win a trip for two to Japan, courtesy of Westjet and Japan Air Lines.
* Numerous merchandise giveaways, prize draws and fun contests.
* The Hockey Hall of Fames Legends exhibit featuring memorabilia, interactive experiences and a number of NHL trophies.
* The Richmond Sockeyes versus the North Delta Devils in the first ever Pacific International Junior Hockey League game to be held at the Oval.
* Mr. OCanada, Mark Donnelly, famous for his singalong rendition of the Canadian anthem at Vancouver Canucks games, will lead the Oval crowd in singing O Canada to start the Sockeyes game.
* Celebrity Ball Hockey game at noon.
* An interactive fun zone where fans can test their shooting and other hockey skills.
* Sony PlayStation video games section, plus table hockey and air hockey challenges.
* A Hockey Marketplace featuring more than 50 vendors offering hockey memorabilia, collectibles, trading cards and more.
Doors will open to the public at 10:30 a.m. and the celebration will last until 10 p.m.; early entrance at 10 a.m. for Richmond Olympic Oval members and their friends and family by showing membership card.
For more on this story please see:
Road closed for Hockey Day in Canada celebration at Richmond Oval
