It’s a drive of about 1300 kilometres from Chisasibi, on Quebec’s James Bay coast to Arnprior- but for Northerners, drives are measured in hours- not in distance.
The trek involves leaving Chisasibi via la Route de la Baie-James to Matagami, travelling route 109 to Val-d’Or, then joining 117 to Ottawa or Gatineau- and 16 hours is remarkably good time; it takes most folks 18, but Simeon Kitty is a Packer fan.
Number 3, Samuel Kitty plays D for the Green Shirts, after two years with the Rockland Nationals- a slightly longer drive.
Making the journey with dad Simeon were spouse Pauline, niece Stephanie, Angel, and cousin Lillian.
The family are attending two Packer home games, and the Saturday away contest in Carleton Place.
Crafter Brandy P. Babineau created the medallion that was gifted to the Arnprior Packer team.
Oldies promised not to show the medallion’s picture before its official presentation in the Packer dressing room.
Simeon is proud of what son Samuel has accomplished in the time he’s spent away from home.
The medallion will be worn by the individual selected as the “hardest working” Arnprior Packer from each game.
And to complete the customary exchange of gifts, Packer General Manager Donaven Welk presented a team jersey to Samuel’s cousin Lillian, a member of the Chisasibi Sports and Recreation Association.
By Rick Stow