sbangayan86’s Brobdingnagian 2019 update: MORE autographs, customs, celebrity meets, Cons, EARLY TOP 10!! (++scans)

[richie.rocket.cards]

Hello HI friends!

And there goes another year of collecting! Just when you think your collection’s pretty good, near completion, and that things will start to slow down for a while, let me tell you this…it NEVER STOPS! Despite living in this digital age, I am still constantly amazed by the ongoing growth of the old-school autographing community –fueled by the ability to reach more collectors, consigners, events, etc. with just the click of a button!

Since I last posted, my Canucks autograph collection has moved to 92.2% completion (569 of 617 players to ever suit up in Canucks uniform). Slow, but it is still progress!

Welp, to the SHOW! (For extra viewing pleasure, combine reading post with beer and nachos)

(FYI: I recognize some viewers might be less interested in some of the non-hockey items here, so I’ve tried to group the non-hockey themes together for this thread rather than purely by chronological order as I’ve done in the past. Top 10 is at the bottom!)

To start, here’s a traditionally tough signer (or at least, he doesn’t keep in touch very well with the pro hockey scene per some of his former Canuck teammates): Gary “Suitcase” Smith! Someone managed to sit him down for a paid private signing, and I knew this was my one chance to get some hard-signed autographs done. (Although shortly after, he appeared in Chronology…so maybe we’ll be getting more Smith’s on the market via UD moving forward)

Love the inscriptions:
16-17 UD Cup Autographed Ticket Booklets Gary Smith auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
16-17 UD Cup Autographed Ticket Booklets Gary Smith back by Richard Ho, on Flickr
04-05 ITG Franchises Gary Smith auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
02-03 Sp Game Used Extra Significance (NBA) Richard Broduer & Gary Smith by Richard Ho, on Flickr

How bout Melissa Benoist—she is pretty =) This was obtained via consignment by a fellow collector who attended Wizard World Oregon:
Melissa Benoist 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And we’re just getting warmed up! You thought that was hot, it is just the beginning

Next: more Canucks customs! These are still my favorite to make, especially when there are new signings on our team…gotta catch ‘em all:

Tim Schaller: while signing for a crowd after training camp practice in Whistler, I remember Tim asking two ladies if they had any idea who he was while signing their jerseys. The two ladies looked at each other and in a sheepish tone: “Captain America?” =p
14-15 Fleer Ultra Fresh INK Tim Schaller auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
15-16 Sp Authentic Limited Tim Schaller auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jay Beagle
17-18 UD Ice Rinkside Signings Jay Beagle auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 Sp Authentic Limited Jay Beagle auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Tyler Motte
14-15 Sp Game Used Tyler Motte base auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Josh Leivo
2002 Spx Prospect auto (MLB) Josh Leivo auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 UD Exquisite Collection Signatures Josh Leivo auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Micheal Ferland (ever notice the “e” comes before the “a” in Micheal?)
12-13 Score Signatures Micheal Ferland auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Parkhurst Priority Signings Exclusives Micheal Ferland auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jake Virtanen
14-15 UD Young Guns Jake Virtanen auto ver 3 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Ashton Sautner
17-18 Sp Authentic FW Ashton Sautner RC auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Antoine Roussel: he loved these customs, asking where they came from and we had a good brief chat about my collection
18-19 Panini Encased Slabbed Signatures (NBA) Antoine Roussel auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
15-16 UD Black Pro Penmanship Antoine Roussel auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
13-14 Ultimate Collection Autographed Threads Antoine Roussel jersey auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

The GREEN MEN: yes the original Force and Sully were appearing at Pastime Sports grand opening in Burnaby. Now I think they have their own sports radio show? Good throw back (terrible signatures though…probably can’t see through that spandex very well)
2018 Rittenhouse Twin Peaks dual auto The Green Men dual auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Todd Warriner: thanks to a friend helping me with these when Warriner was playing in a charity tournament in London, ON.
05-06 Sp Authentic SOTT Todd Warriner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
10-11 OPC Signatures Todd Warriner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Thomas Vanek
2015 Panini Flawless Transitions Gold (NBA) Thomas Vanek auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Luke Schenn
18-19 Sp Authentic SOTT 80s Luke Schenn auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
11-12 Black Diamond Gemography Luke Schenn auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Ryan Spooner (where the heck is this guy now?) Nice very well-placed autograph though (yes we autograph collectors are OCD about placement!)
12-13 Panini Momentous Rookies Authentic Signature (NBA) Ryan Spooner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
14-15 UD Signatures Ryan Spooner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Marek Mazanec (obscure but cool lookin!)
18-19 Black Diamond Gemography Marek Mazanec auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
15-16 Upper Deck Canvas Marek Mazanec auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Richard Bachman upgrade:
08-09 UD Sunkist Autograph Richard Bachman auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Michael Carcone: for some reason he signed on the penny sleeve rather than the card…oh well
14-15 Panini Immaculate Ink Michael Carcone auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Gary Leeman: love the spaghetti jerseys; signed via Sport Authentix
03-04 UD Ovation Standing O Graphs (NBA) Gary Leeman auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Nils Hoglander…sickest goal in pro hockey this year? (He was the dude who scored a Michigan lacrosse goal in the SweHL)
16-17 UD Draft Pick Nils Hoglander auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Toni Utunen
16-17 UD Draft Pick Toni Utunen auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jett Woo
16-17 UD Top Draft Pick Jett Woo auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

College phenom: Tyler Madden
16-17 UD Draft Pick Tyler Madden auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

College signing Josh Teves:
15-16 UD Top Shelf Rookies Josh Teves auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 UD Overtime Josh Teves auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Another college signing: Brogan Rafferty
2004 UD Reflections Rookie Autographs (MLB) Brogan Rafferty auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Adam Gaudette: the hockey gaud, his fast improvement trajectory over the last few months has our city captivated for sure
17-18 Sp Authentic FW Adam Gaudette auto RC by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Mike DiPietro: rude awakening to the NHL, but he is now playing lights out in the AHL; but I loved these Chinese New Year red jerseys:
07-08 Sp Game Used Spectrum Michael DiPietro auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
11-12 Panini Titanium Draft Day Autographs Michael DiPietro auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
12-13 Sp Authentic Signature Stoppers Michael DiPietro auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Another in the red: Zack MacEwen
15-16 UD Full Force Immediate Impact Zack MacEwen auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Tanner Pearson
10-11 Panini Luxury Suite Rookie Tanner Pearson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
03-04 MVP Pro Sign (NBA) Tanner Pearson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Ultimate Collection base Tanner Pearson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Guillaume Brisebois
18-19 Sp Authentic FW Guillaume Brisebois RC auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Manny Malhotra upgrade:
11-12 Black Diamond Manny Malhotra jersey auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jordie Benn
14-15 OPC Signatures Jordie Benn auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 UD Premier Inked Scripts Jordie Benn auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Sp Game Used base Jordie Benn auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Oscar Fantenberg
15-16 UD Signatures Oscar Fantenberg auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
05-06 Sp Game Used Authentic Rookie Gold Oscar Fantenberg auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Tyler Myers
18-19 Sp Authentic SOTT Tyler Myers auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Myers 1 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And our All-Star reps the last few seasons: the future is here:
That Flow: Brock Boeser
07-08 UD Cup All-Star Royalty Brock Boeser auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Bo Horvat: Oh Captain My Captain:
07-08 UD Cup All Star Royalty Bo Horvat auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

On to some Olympic autos (section A):

As you probably all know, many of the Figure Skating national team members (Virtue/Moir, Patrick Chan, Kaetlyn Osmond, Radford/Duhamel) announced their retirement from competition over the last year. A bit sad to see the end of such a fruitful era over the last decade with these names, so when a majority of them were signed on for Stars on Ice this year, I knew I had to go see, and meet them live once more!

Here's a legend who was not on the roster last year: Kurt Browning (first dude to attempt a quad jump in competition):
17-18 UD Cup Dual Program of Excellence Stojko & Browning auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 UD Ice Rinkside Signings Red Kurt Browning auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
UZOQ7729 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Up and comer Nam Nguyen
16-17 Trilogy Signature Pucks Nam Nguyen auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 UD Ice Glacial Graphs Black Nam Nguyen auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_5503 Nam Nguyen by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Another up and comer Alicia Pineault TTM:
16-17 UD Ice Superb Script Alicia Pineault auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 Panini Noir Spotlight Signatures (NBA) Alicia Pineault auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Andrew Poje and Kaitlyn Weaver: recently competitors on Battle of the Blades!
17-18 Sp Authentic Moments Poje & Weaver auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_5500 Poje & Weaver by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Eric Radford and Meagan Duhamel: recent Olympic bronze medalists
Duhamel & Radford 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

The current faces of Ice Dance (internationally)! Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier have been cleaning up the last year and a half, and smashing their own personal bests en route to a recent ISU GP Skate Canada International gold medal; watch out 2022:
09-10 UD Ice Rinkside Signings Piper Gilles auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
13-14 UD Exquisite Collection Enshrinement Duals (NBA) Gilles - Poirier auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
02-03 Sp Authentic Dual SOTT Poirier & Gilles auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Gilles & Poirier 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_5490 Poirier & Gilles by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Never a bad time seeing Patrick Chan and Kaetlyn Osmond:
17-18 UD Cup Dual Auto Rookie Bookmarks Chan-Osmond by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 UD Cup Dual Auto Rookie Bookmarks Patrick Chan Kaitlyn Osmond auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
UZXR4214 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

This year I also went to see my first live Bobsleigh races in Whistler…we were FREEZING OUR BUTTS OFF but it was cool to see (my fiancé was less impressed that I wanted to wait around for autographs though, but she was a good sport…whatever it takes for that autograph right? =)

Justin Kripps: Olympic gold 2018 in the 2-man bobsleigh event (and he won the race in Whistler too):
12-13 Sp Authentic Authentic Moments Justin Kripps auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
11-12 OPC Signatures Justin Kripps auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 UD Tim Hortons NHL Signatures Justin Kripps auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4865 Justin Kripps by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Lyndon Rush: this guy is a coach for the national team now, but in 2010 took bronze in the 4-man bobsleigh event. I saw him late in the day chillin outside the athlete holding area…I waved but twice he thought I was motioning at something else lol. I finally had to ask Justin Kripps to bring over his coach to meet this guy and we had a good laugh at the preceding mixups: “I didn’t think anyone remembered me!” said he:
16-17 UD Top Shelf Rookies Lyndon Rush auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 Panini Flawless Momentous Autographs (NBA) Lyndon Rush auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4868 Lyndon Rush by Richard Ho, on Flickr

On to Skeleton (which I have yet to see any live)

Mellisa Hollingsworth TTM: Olympic bronze Turin 2006
12-13 Sp Authentic Signature Stoppers Mellisa Hollingsworth auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2017 UD Goodwin Champions Goudey Sport Royalty Mellisa Hollingsworth auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Duff Gibson TTM: oldest Canadian Olympic champion in history when he took gold in skeleton in Turin 2006:
2016 Panini National Treasures Signatures (NFL) Duff Gibson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
05-06 UD Black Diamond Gemography Duff Gibson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Met another few Olympians at some charity events while stationed in Calgary (one of the biggest athlete hubs/training center in the country):

Brady Leman: Olympic gold in Men’s Ski Cross Pyeongchang 2018:
05-06 Parkhurst Signatures Brady Leman auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
99-00 Sp Authentic SOTT (NBA) Brady Leman auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_2962 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Alex Gough: first woman to medal in any event in Luge for Canada!
18-19 Sp Authentic Moments Alex Gough auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2015 UD Goodwin Champions Goudey Alex Gough auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_7246 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jessica Zelinka, heptathlon. I think she is usually very friendly but she was extra-friendly that night with probably a few too many drinks..and told me her whole life philosophy =)
09-10 OPC Canadian Heroes Jessica Zelinka auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_7249 Jessica Zelinka by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jon Cornish, CFL football. Don’t normally go out for CFLers but he was a guest at the Canada Sports Hall of Fame, and was Canada’s Top athlete 2013 (Lou Marsh Trophy), so couldn’t pass up. He liked these cards so much he gave me his email to send him the files:
18-19 Panini Immaculate Collection Modern Marks (MLS) Jon Cornish auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 UD Premier Signature Award Winners Jon Cornish auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_7244 Jon Cornish by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Kristina Groves: 4 Olympic medals and one of the greatest in long-track speed skating. She was the guest speaker at a concussion forum…I had left Calgary already at that time but met a collector at the Calgary Sports Card show who (well, his wife) offered to attend the lecture and get these signed for me! Love this hobby:
2004 UD Finite HG Signatures (NFL) Kristina Groves auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
02-03 Sp Authentic (NBA) Kristina Groves auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Cindy Klassen Long-Track Speed Skating: where to begin, she is Canada’s most decorated Olympian EVER with 6 Olympic medals including gold in 1500m Turin 2006, holds world records, won the Lou Marsh Trophy (Canada’s top athlete 2006), inducted to the Canada Sports Hall of Fame 2017:
10-11 Spx Base Spectrum Cindy Klassen auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2002 UD Ultimate Collection Signed Excellence (MLB) Cindy Klassen auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_2939 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Recent mail return from fast-rising beach volleyball player: Melissa Humana-Paredes! She and Sarah Pavan have been sweeping the world with major wins the last calendar year. And she was super nice chatting a bit over Instagram; looking forward to watching her in Tokyo 2020:
(Yes, I am now slowly making my way into the summer Olympic sports…the insanity continues to grow )
2019 UD Team Canada Juniors patch auto Melissa Humana-Paredes auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Parkhurst Priority Signings Exclusives Melissa Humana-Paredes auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
04-05 Sp Signature Edition Sp Signs (NBA) Melissa Humana-Paredes auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Melissa Humana-Paredes auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And to finish up the first Olympic section: ski and snowboard. There are so many disciplines within Olympic ski and snowboard, but Canada seems to have bright stars in nearly all of them! My next goal is to get to one of the X-Games one year (either Aspen Colorado, or I heard Calgary may be a co-host next year?)

Cassie Sharpe, Olympic gold 2018 Pyeongchang ski halfpipe: this one was cool because I was actually there to watch moguls, but she happened to be training that week on the same hill, and was just spectating as well:
18-19 Ultimate Collection Icons Cassie Sharpe jersey auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
15-16 Sp Authentic Marks of Distinction Cassie Sharpe auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Cassie Sharpe 5x7 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4410 by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Sebastien Toutant, Olympic gold 2018 Pyeongchang snowboard big air
18-19 Sp Authentic SOTT 60s Sebastien Toutant auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2012 Sp Authentic Golf Marks of Distinction Sebastien Toutant auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4678 Sebastien Toutant by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Beckie Scott, Olympic gold 2002 Salt Lake City in cross country skiing; and she is a champion for clean sport too:
2006 Spx Super Scripts (NFL) Beckie Scott auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2012 UD Golf Sign of the Times Beckie Scott auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Kelsey Serwa, Olympic gold 2018 Pyeongchang in Ladies’ Ski Cross: we absolutely ROCK at this sport:
18-19 Sp Authentic SOTT 90s Kelsey Serwa auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 Panini Noir auto (NBA) Kelsey Serwa auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Brittany Phelan, Olympic silver 2018 Pyeongchang in Ladies’ Ski Cross: see?
15-16 UD Priority Signings Parkhurst Brittany Phelan auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Black Diamond Gemography Brittany Phelan auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Ashleigh McIvor, Olympic gold 2010 Vancouver in Ladies’ Ski Cross: this was a very BIG return as she was one of the few Vancouver Olympic gold medalists I had yet to have an autograph of for that collection:
14-15 UD Premier Signature Champions Ashleigh McIvor auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
13-14 UD Team Canada POE Signatures Ashleigh McIvor auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Kerrin Lee-Gartner, Olympic gold in downhill ski Albertsville 1992:
2005 Ultimate Signature supremacy (MLB) Kerrin Lee-Gartner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2004 UD Reflections Rookie Autographs (MLB) Kerrin Lee-Gartner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jasey Jay Anderson, Olympic gold 2010 Vancouver in parallel giant slalom. Despite buying this signed 4x6, he is still high on my list to either meet, or send TTM to one day (to round out the 2010 Olympic gold medalist collection):
Jasey Jay Anderson 4x6 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And, as I made reference to: I took a solo trip over to Winsport to watch some Ladies’ Moguls –another event Canada has been excellent at! (I will say though, it’s actually much easier to watch on TV because on the ground, you’re so far away from the actual course that it’s hard to see any real amount of detail). Cool experience nevertheless:

Chloe Dufour-Lapointe, Olympic silver 2014 moguls in Sochi:
2012 UD All-Time Greats Shining Moments Chloe Dufour-Lapointe auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
03-04 UD Finite Signatures (NBA) Chloe Dufour-Lapointe auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Justine Dufour-Lapointe, Olympic gold 2014 moguls in Sochi: love that air guitar pose
1999 Sp Authentic SOTT (Nascar) Justine Dufour-Lapointe auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2013 UD All Time Greats Big Signatures Justine Dufour-Lapointe FRONT by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2013 UD All Time Greats Big Signatures Justine Dufour-Lapointe auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

One with both sisters!
06-07 Sp Game Used SIGnificance Dual (NBA) Chloe & Justine Dufour-Lapointe auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4409 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

OK! Back to some more hockey (to finish out Act I):

A few customs I had done probably 8 years ago in the 05-06 FW design, but just never really got around to getting them signed:
Mike Green, this would’ve been one hot card back in the day:
05-06 Sp Authentic Future Watch Mike Green auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4453 Mike Green by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Pekka Rinne by consignment
05-06 Sp Authentic FW Pekka Rinne auto RC by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Dave Andreychuk TTM
05-06 Ultimate Honors Signatures (NBA) Dave Andreychuk auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Dave Taylor through private signing by Sport Authentix
Dave Taylor 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Bernie Nicholls also (got to love these old purple jerseys!)
Bernie Nicholls 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Once again, I was able to attend Hockey Helps the Homeless charity tournament in late 2018…and this time both in Calgary AND Vancouver!
First in Calgary…does anyone know who this guy is?
IMG_2946 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Yea, way obscure: Rob Tudor! 28 games in the NHL, a few for the Canucks, which puts him HIGH on the all-time Canucks autograph collection checklist:
17-18 Black Diamond Rookie Team Logo Jumbos Rob Tudor auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Claude Vilgrain: 6 games for the Canucks (and another off the list!)
2000 Sp Top Prospects Chirography (MLB) Claude Vilgrain auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_2943 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Robyn Regehr, 2006 Turin Olympics
12-13 OPC Signatures CANADA Robyn Regehr auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
14-15 UD Premier Signature Champions Robyn Regehr auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_2952 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Mike Commodore: just because he once had the awesome fro
IMG_2941 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jamie Macoun
IMG_2950 by Richard Ho, on Flickr
05-06 Sp Authentic SOTT Dual Garth Butcher-Jamie Macoun auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Brendan Morrison BMO! You’d think being the Canucks fan I am I would’ve met this guy many times, but in fact, this was the very first time! He was happy to chat for a few minutes about life, the women’s game, autographing, and maybe bending Bertuzzi’s arm to come to a charity tournament:
Brendan Morrison 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_2949 Brendan Morrison by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Onto Vancouver HHTH:

Some HHOF ladies to start:
Jayna Hefford: 4 time Olympic gold 2002-2014; nothing new to sign as she did TTM for me a few years back
IMG_4009 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Angela James: never played in the Olympics but paved the road for women’s hockey to get on the bigger stage; also collected 4 World Championship golds
18-19 UD Team Canada Juniors Black Angela James auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
14-15 Sp Authentic Limited Angela James auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4012 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Tyler Bouck
16-17 OPC Signatures Tyler Bouck auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
15-16 UD Signature Sensations Tyler Bouck auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4015 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Scott Walker
IMG_4016 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Dennis Kearns
Dennis Kearns 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Bob Murray
IMG_4017 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Kirk McLean; side note on Kirk…a few years back, our former site owner Bruce (meatmancgy) asked for some OPC templates, which I was happy to provide. Fast forward to Fall 2019, he messages to show me what he’s done with them, and sends over a few extra McLean’s he got done over on the isle! Thanks Bruce!
Kirk McLean 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
82-83 OPC Kirk McLean auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
79-80 OPC Kirk McLean auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Greg Adams upgrades:
04-05 ITG Franchises Greg Adams auto (update) by Richard Ho, on Flickr
01-02 UD Top Shelf Signatures Greg Adams auto (update) by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Dave Tomlinson
IMG_4018 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jyrki Lumme
Jyrki Lumme 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Cliff Ronning
Cliff Ronning 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4010 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Babs
Dave Babych 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4014 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Glenn Anderson: he was there in 2017 as well, but I didn’t approach him that day (or couldn’t find him at the end); other graphers were swarming the guy all day, glad to have gotten a pic with this HHOFer!
IMG_4011 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And my favorite of the day: AARON VOLPATTI
Haha, Aaron who? This guy was one of those heart and soul 4th line players who could fight, skate, agitate, and score when needed; he never got an UD card so I had to take up the slack:
10-11 Spx Rookie Aaron Volpatti auto RC by Richard Ho, on Flickr
10-11 Sp Authentic Future Watch Aaron Volpatti auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Sp Authentic Limited base Aaron Volpatti auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
10-11 Crown Royale Silhouettes Aaron Volpatti RC auto (ver 2) by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4013 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Pierre Turgeon pick-ups: one of my favorite guys dominant in the 90s, not to mention his jersey wardrobe which are some of the best: Sabres, Isles, Blues! I’m sort of becoming a bit of a Turgeon collector…but can’t compete for the very low numbered buyback cards. Can you pick out the custom?
18-19 Ultimate Collection 1997 Retro Pierre Turgeon auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 Sp Authentic SOTT Pierre Turgeon auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Sp Authentic SOTT 90s Pierre Turgeon auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
10-11 UD Cup Limited Logos Pierre Turgeon patch auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Personalized photo once again through Sport Authentix!
Pierre Turgeon 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Pierre Turgeon 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Next, fast forward to the Western Canada Sports Collectors Convention, organizer Dale did a super job bringing in some amazing signing guests that weekend! I was never a major Ray Bourque fan (mainly cause his Avs were constantly destroying our Canucks), but can’t ignore the crazy accomplishments he amassed during his time in the NHL. The handing of the Stanley Cup from Sakic to Bourque is still one of the greatest feel good moments in NHL history:
He already has every card design done under the sun, so how could I make it unique…?
Yep, pair him with a Canuck; interesting fact, one of Bourque’s early career fights was against one Darcy Rota =p
09-10 Sp Authentic Prestigious Pairings Bourque Rota by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_7335 Ray Bourque by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Phew! That was just part 1 of the sports update. As before, we’ll have an intermission here chalk full of non-sport goodness and my nerdom containing autographs from the movies, comics, and TV (like the Power Rangers =)
Okay, who remembers this 90s show? Can I say after the Mighty Morphin’ Pink Ranger, this was everyone’s second 90s TV crush…TOPANGA?!

Got to meet the whole cast at Fan Expo Dallas; one of the best shows ever, and those life lessons:
Ben Savage & Danielle Fishel auto 8x10 by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Boy Meets World cast by Richard Ho, on Flickr

A few autos from the 007 films:
Maryam D’Abo (via consignment):
Rittenhouse James Bond Archives Maryan D'Abo auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Eva Green: ever elusive, I had to get this done via a street grapher in the UK. I still have a bunch of custom cards I need done, so hopefully someone signs her on to do a Con soon. I would FLY to the UK to get those done if she had a sit down!
Eva Green 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Then in the spring, I made it to my first Star Wars Celebration in Chicago! The guest list ended up being slightly weaker than previous years, but it was good to say I went at least once. I also got to view the new Episode IX trailer before any other fans on the planet, so that was pretty awesome in a full stadium:
DSC01804 rich as Chirrut by Richard Ho, on Flickr

John Boyega: this was funny because he was there for a panel post-trailer, and then decided to walk the floor without any security on him. Obviously he was completely swarmed by a huge crowd waving things for him to sign, asking for pictures, etc. He was a great sport though, we only waited in that thicket for half and hour to get this:
IMG_5299 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And ran into Pawn Stars guest Steve Grad at the Beckett booth:
IMG_E5277 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Some new completed Star Wars posters (Daisy Ridley and Adam Driver were via private signings, Billy Dee Williams at Celebration):

Billy Dee:
Star Wars V - Billy Dee Williams 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Daisy Ridley on the Episode VII poster: an upgrade after Adam Driver signed my last one, but all over Ridley’s face:
Star Wars VII - Daisy Ridley 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Adam Driver: much better placement not ruining anyone’s face lol:
Star Wars VIII - Adam Driver 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Only 1 item for Power Rangers this year:
Completed this dual booklet as it was missing Johnny Yong Bosch at the last show:
11-12 UD Autographed Rookie Bookmarks Bosch-Cardenas by Richard Ho, on Flickr
11-12 UD Autographed Rookie Bookmarks Bosch-Cardenas auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And of course, no intermission complete without the comic book superheroes:
Zachary Levi from Shazam:
Zachary Levi - Shazam 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Zachary Levi by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Amber Heard, Mera in Aquaman
Amber Heard 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Paul Rudd the Ant Man:
Paul Rudd (Ant-Man) 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Brie Larson, Captain Marvel. She’s pretty tough at the premieres I hear so glad to have gotten this one done in her one and only send-in so far. Used Twin Cities Comics to help with many of these so if you like these, I suggest subscribing to their newsletter! They have very great service as you can see from these two examples:
Brie Larson 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Chris Hemsworth, Thor: also with the help of Twin Cities Comics. I now have 3 of the original 6 Avengers…the toughest still to come!
Chris Hemsworth 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jonathan Ke Quan, Short Round (Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom)
Ke Huy Quan Indiana Jones - Temple of Doom 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Smallville: this was the show we were all following through high school (and a lot of it was actually filmed in Vancouver); these stars have been finally making multiple appearances on the Con scene…and they are as popular as ever

Tom Welling: guy is huge.
2012 Cryptozoic Smallville Seasons 7-10 Tom Welling auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Kristin Kreuk: interesting tidbit, she actually went to my high school (graduated before me though)
2012 Cryptozoic Smallville Seasons 7-10 Kristin Kreuk auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Kristin Kreuk - Smallville - 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And the primary cast (with Michael Rosenbaum):
Smallville - Kreuk, Welling, Rosenbaum by Richard Ho, on Flickr

ACT II: back to the sports!

Some Canucks pick-ups (licensed cards); seem to be less and less each year, and the rookies are wayyy expensive (best to wait a few years):
Kevin Bieksa: some people wonder if he should be put on Hockey Night in Canada with the departure of Don Cherry. Thoughts?
06-07 Sp Authentic Rookie Review Kevin Bieksa patch auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Alexander Edler upgrade Cup RC
06-07 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Patch Alexander Edler upgrade by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Willie Mitchell
09-10 BAP Signatures Willie Mitchell auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Mikael Samuelsson
10-11 Zenith Yours Truly Mikael Samuelsson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

A few on-card hard-signed autos. I normally don’t like these, but these two guys are hard to find, and their pictures in Canucks uniform are hard to come by, so these will have to do for now:

Tony Currie
82-83 OPC Tony Currie auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Don Gibson
91-92 Upper Deck Don Gibson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Adam Gaudette
18-19 UD Overtime Adam Gaudette auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Sp Authentic SOTT Rookies Adam Gaudette auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Sam Gagner
17-18 UD Overtime Sam Gagner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Brendan Leipsic
18-19 Parkhurst Priority Signings Brendan Leipsic auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Every thread has Pavel Bure! (But it seems he is no longer signing for new UD product…which is really a bummer. I loved the cards they put out of him the last few years:
15-16 UD Premier Auto Pavel Bure auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
16-17 UD Premier Duals Bure McLean jersey by Richard Ho, on Flickr
13-14 UD Artifacts Auto Facts Pavel Bure auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Sp Game Used Locker Essentials Pavel Bure jersey by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 UD Artifacts Black Pavel Bure auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Very slow on the overall TTM scene, but one or two did come back to help the Canucks collection:

Scott Lachance: actually this was not a true TTM, it was consignment through someone on hockeydb
06-07 Sp Authentic SOTT Scott Lachance auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
07-08 Upper Deck McDonalds Autographs Scott Lachance auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Bill SWEATT: I sent these out years ago, came back with a note from Sweatt himself apologizing for the delay. Nice to get that dual Sweatt brothers card done!
11-12 Sp Authentic Future Watch Bill Sweatt auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
11-12 Panini Contenders NHL Ink Dual Billy & Lee Sweatt auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

MORE OLYMPICS (Section B)!!

Team Canada women’s hockey: I don’t have a full want list, but the amount of these I’ve accumulated is starting to become pretty sizeable. Sad to see that fall of the CWHL, hopefully these ladies find a way to play in a regular league again en route to the 2022 Olympics =|

Another legend and Hall of Famer Danielle Goyette, who coaches the Calgary Dinos varsity women’s team now:
17-18 UD Premier Signature Champions Danielle Goyette auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
13-14 Sp Game Used Gold Base Danielle Goyette auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_2869 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Blayre Turnbull
15-16 OPC Signatures Blayre Turnbull auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_2866 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Halli Krzyzaniak
18-19 UD Team Canada Juniors Halli Krzyzaniak patch auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_2865 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Ann-Renee Desbiens
15-16 UD Team Canada Juniors Ann-Renee Desbiens auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Amy Potomak
13-14 Ultimate Collection 1997 Retro Amy Potomak auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 UD Team Canada Juniors Amy Potomak patch auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Sarah Potomak
2016 Panini Absolute Marks of Fame (NFL) Sarah Potomak auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 UD Team Canada Juniors Sarah Potomak patch auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 UD Canada Juniors Premium Sarah Potomak auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Olivia Knowles
12-13 UD Cup Programme of Excellence Olivia Knowles auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jamie Lee Rattray
16-17 UD Team Canada Juniors Black Jamie Lee Rattray auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Melodie Daoust
13-14 Sp Authentic Silver Skates Melodie Daoust auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 Sp Game Used Base Melodie Daoust auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Katie Weatherston
06-07 ITG Going for Gold Katie Weatherston auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Cheryl Pounder
06-07 ITG Going for Gold Cheryl Pounder auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Laura Stacey
17-18 UD Canada Juniors Laura Stacey auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

France St Louis
06-07 ITG Going for Gold France St Louis auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Gillian Ferrari
06-07 ITG Going for Gold Gillian Ferrari auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Lauriane Rougeau
18-19 UD Team Canada Juniors Lauriane Rougeau auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Laura Fortino
16-17 UD Team Canada Juniors Black Laura Fortino auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jillian Saulnier
16-17 UD Team Canada Juniors Black Jillian Saulnier auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Meghan Agosta
14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Meghan Agosta auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
16-17 UD Team Canada Juniors Meghan Agosta auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 UD Team Canada Juniors Meghan Agosta auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Vicky Sunohara
18-19 Sp Game Used Vicky Sunohara auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2014 UD Exquisite Endorsements (Golf) Vicky Sunohara auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Emily Clark
16-17 UD Team Canada Juniors Black Emily Clark auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Brianne Jenner
14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Brianne Jenner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Sarah Nurse
1999 UD Authentics HoloGrFX (NFL) Sarah Nurse auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2000 Sp Authentic Chirography (baseball) Sarah Nurse auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4417 Sarah Nurse by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Sami Jo Small
17-18 Sp Authentic SOTT Sami Jo Small auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2000 Sp Top Prospects Chirography (baseball) Sami Jo Small auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Renata Fast
13-14 Sp Authentic Silver Skates Renata Fast auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 Panini Noir auto (NBA) Renata Fast auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 UD Team Canada Juniors Renata Fast auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4421 Renata Fast by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Genevieve Lacasse
14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Genevieve Lacasse auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Charline Labonte
16-17 UD Team Canada Juniors Charline Labonte auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Geraldine Heaney
16-17 UD Premier Gold Spectrum base Geraldine Heaney auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
16-17 UD Top Shelf Rookies Geraldine Heaney auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Hayley Wickenheiser
Hayley Wickenheiser 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Marie-Philip Poulin
18-19 UD Team Canada Juniors Marie-Philip Poulin auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 UD Cup Honorable Numbers Marie-Philip Poulin auto jersey by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Tessa Bonhomme! This took a while TTM, but it was a big day when it arrived as it completed my 2010 Team Canada Olympic gold women’s team collection!!
13-14 Sp Authentic Program of Excellence Tessa Bonhomme auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
15-16 Sp Authentic Great White North Tessa Bonhomme auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2014 Team Canada captain Caroline Ouellette:
18-19 UD Overtime Rookies Caroline Ouellette auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2019 UD Team Canada Juniors patch auto Caroline Ouellette auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

On to summer sports:

With a rare concurrent day off with my girlfriend, we decided to take a drive down to Portland to see some of the pre-tournament days at the LPGA Portland Cambia Classic (and to get Voodoo donuts of course). Confession: I believe the Tuesday practice day was maybe supposed to be closed to the public as there was a security booth at the parking entrance checking IDs (wasn’t entirely clear on the championship website). My gf was driving the car, and she literally didn’t realize you were supposed to stop and zoomed right by the security booth LOL. By the time she realized, we were already jammed behind by other cars, so we just moved on =p

Good thing we did as we might have been turned away. I guess if you act like a douche, people assume you’re just someone of importance??

Lexi Thompson
2001 Sp Authentic Stars auto (Golf) Lexi Thompson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2012 Sp Authentic Golf Rookies Signatures Lexi Thompson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
KVQH8569 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Lydia Ko
2002 Sp Authentic Golf Authentic Signature Rookies Lydia Ko auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2012 Sp Game Used Golf Spectrum Lydia Ko auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_6837 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jessica Korda (and unfortunately, no Nelly Korda at this tournament)
2012 Sp Game Used First Tee Rookies (Golf) Jessica Korda auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
UALY3866 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Some other golf autos obtained elsewhere; love these Signature Shots giant cards:
Lori Kane
2004 Sp Signature Golf Lorie Kane 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Mike Weir
Mike Weir 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Gymnastics: Kyle Shewfelt – gold medal floor exercise 2004 Athens
13-14 UD Canada Juniors Signatures Kyle Shewfelt auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
11-12 Sp Authentic SOTT Kyle Shewfelt auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Justin Morneau: don’t normally collect baseball, but BC boy and 2008 Canadian Male Athlete of the year
2010 Topps Peak Performance Justin Morneau auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Damian Warner: Decathlon bronze 2016 Rio Olympics
2016 UD Goodwin Champions Autographs Damian Warner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
15-16 UD Champ's Damian Warner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Tennis: up and coming Canadian star who made it to the final 4 at our local VanOpen 2019 Leylah Annie Fernandez. She cleaned up the junior circuit, I think we’ll be hearing her name on the WTA tour soon
16-17 UD Premier Signature Champions Leylah Fernandez auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Sp Authentic SOTT Rookies Leylah Fernandez auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_6775 Leylah Annie Fernandez by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And Canadian legend: Daniel Nestor! He was the Honorary Tournament Director at the 2018 Calgary National Bank Challenger
2004 Sp Authentic Scripts for Success (NFL) Daniel Nestor auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2003 Sp Authentic Chirography (MLB) Daniel Nestor auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_2846 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

MMA: BJ Penn came to visit our Vancouver UFC gyms one day; I remember busting out during lunch hour at work to meet the guy. The belt is extremely deceptively heavy
2017 UD Goodwin Champions Goudey BJ Penn auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
BJ Penn auto photo by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_4532 BJ Penn by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Canadian MMA legend: Georges St Pierre through Frozen Pond. Will hopefully meet this guy somewhere one day
Georges St Pierre 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Long track speed skating updates: went to the Canadian Long Track Championships at the Calgary Olympic Oval again this year. Last time I was catching mostly the men’s races as Ted-Jan Bloemen was coming off his Olympic gold performances. This time, I was able to catch the lady racers!

Isabelle Weidemann, breakout star last season despite no medal at the Olympics, but boy is she cleaning up the world stage this year: already World Cup 3000m Gold in Belarus, podium finish 5000m World Cup Nur-Sultan (Kazakhstan), and breaking Cindy Klassen’s 13 year old Canadian record in the 5000m:
18-19 UD Premier Signature Award Winners Isabelle Weidemann auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2016 Panini Absolute Marks of Fame (NFL) Isabelle Weidemann auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
EROZ2094 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Susan Auch, Olympic silvers in 1994 Lillehamer and 1998 Nagano, inducted into Canada Olympic Hall of Fame and Sports Hall of Fame, TTM:
17-18 UD CHL Autographs Susan Auch auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
06-07 Sp Authentic SOTT Susan Auch auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Valerie Maltais, Olympic silver in 3000m short track relay 2014 Sochi; converted to long track and now busting the world circuit with gold in team pursuit in World Cup Nur-Sultan.
18-19 Panini Chronicles Momentous Rookies (NBA) Valerie Maltais auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
16-17 UD Parkhurst Priority Signings Valerie Maltais auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
BWNI8573 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Ivanie Blondin, she gets better with age it seems. Finishing near the podium in Pyeongchang, but this early season is where the story is: World Cup gold in 1500m, 3000m, 5000m, Team Pursuit, Mass Start, and a new track record in Nagano!
18-19 Panini Encased Slabbed Signatures (NBA) Ivanie Blondin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 Sp Authentic SOTT Ivanie Blondin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
RCNU1486 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

One of the most famed Canadian athletes ever, and final 4 torch bearer in Vancouver 2010: Catriona Le May Doan! I met her at a public debate when Calgary was voting around the idea of hosting another Olympic games:
16-17 Sp Authentic SOTT Catriona Le May Doan auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
15-16 Panini Immaculate Collection (NBA) Catriona Le May Doan auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_2935 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Bit of Curling next; couldn’t get to any live tournaments this year, but got a few things in the mail:

Shannon Kleibrink: skip for the 2006 team taking bronze in Turin
04-05 Sp Authentic Signatures (NBA) Shannon Kleibrink auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
1998 Sp Authentic Players Ink Silver (NFL) Shannon Kleibrink auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Kelly Scott: BC rep
18-19 UD Exquisite Collection Rookies Kelly Scott auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
1999 UD Authentics Encore (NFL) Kelly Scott auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Lisa Weagle: recall in my last post that I met Team Homan at various tournaments in 2018. At one of those in Calgary, I had Lisa sign a custom card, which she took a look at and told me she loved it and wanted a copy. I had none extra so I told her I’d mail it to her home club.

Lisa Weagle (lead)
10-11 Zenith National Treasures Rookie Lisa Weagle auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

When I got home to Vancouver, I sent a few along to her, thinking nothing of it. Fast forward a few weeks I get this fat package in the mail….she sent me a signed JERSEY:
Weagle auto jersey by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Short track ISU World Cup 2018 in Calgary

Courtney Sarault: only 19, but she’s already starting to become a dominant force on the international stage. I will need to upgrade these sooner than later; watch for her in Beijing 2022!
13-14 Panini Contenders Rookie Ticket Courtney Sarault auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2018 Panini Majestic auto (NFL) Courtney Sarault auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_2967 Courtney Sarault by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Charle Cournoyer: Olympic bronze 500m Sochi 2014
2016 Panini Flawless Now & Then Signatures (NFL) Charle Cournoyer auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Pascal Dion: Olympic bronze 5000m relay Pyeongchang 2018
01-02 Ultimate Collection Signatures (NBA) Pascal Dion auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Dion, Blais, Cournoyer, and Samuel Girard
IMG_2954 Dion Blais Cournoyer Girard by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Charles Hamelin: one of the greatest ever, with 5 Olympic medals including 3 gold and not to mention a shipload of World Championship podiums! Glad to have gotten to see him race before he retires (if he ever retires!)
01-02 UD Ice Clear Cut Autograph Charles Hamelin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
99-00 Sp Authentic Base Charles Hamelin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_2964 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

In early 2019, the Canucks Autism Network put together another charity hockey tournament, this time inviting many members of the 2011 Cup Finals team:

Raffi Torres (he got drafted 1st overall for this tournament):
2008 UD Exquisite Collection Endorsements (NFL) Raffi Torres auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4545 Torres by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Chris Higgins
14-15 UD Ice Glacial Graphs Black Chris Higgins auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4544 Higgins by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Matt Pettinger
16-17 Sp Authentic Spectrum Matt Pettinger auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
06-07 UD Mcdonalds Matt Pettinger auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4538 Pettinger by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Mikael Samuelsson
IMG_4548 Samuelsson by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Gerald Diduck
06-07 UD Black Diamond Gemography Gerald Diduck auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
16-17 UD Premier Signatures Gerald Diduck auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 UD Overtime Gerald Diduck auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4551 Diduck by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Dana Murzyn
IMG_4547 Murzyn by Richard Ho, on Flickr

The Courtnall brothers: I have met Geoff quite a few times, but never Russ!
15-16 Sp Authentic Limited Russ Courtnall auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2016 Panini Flawless Now & Then Signatures (NFL) horizontal Russ Courtnall auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4541 Courtnall brothers by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And finally, HHTH 2019. A few new players I hadn’t met before as well:

Geoff Sanderson! This guy has been HARD to find! I think he was scheduled to play a few years back at this tournament, but didn’t make it out. Good to add a few hard-signed cards to the collection from him:
17-18 Sp Authentic SOTT Geoff Sanderson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2003 Ultimate Collection Signatures (MLB) Geoff Sanderson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
NCGP4967 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Ronnie Stern
12-13 OPC Signatures Ronnie Stern auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
16-17 UD Premier Gold Spectrum base Ronnie Stern auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
BEDW0386 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Moe Lemay
2007 Sp Authentic SOTT (NFL) Moe Lemay auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

John Craighead
02-03 UD Premier Collection Super Rookie John Craighead auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
16-17 UD Top Shelf Rookies John Craighead auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Two very heart and soul players for the Oilers in the early 2000s:

Ethan Moreau: one of my favorite heart and soul guys in the game when I was growing up
17-18 Sp Game Used Authentic Rookies Ethan Moreau auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Eric Brewer: one smooth skater and talented D-man who won gold with Team Canada way back in 2002 Salt Lake City!
(Handwriting clearly not his strong suit though):
2008 Spx MLB Rookie Signatures Eric Brewer auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
19-20 UD Signature Sensations Eric Brewer auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_7372 Eric Brewer & Ethan Moreau by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Larry Melnyk
18-19 OPC Coast to Coast Autographs Larry Melnyk auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2018 Panini National Treasures Lasting Legacies (soccer) Larry Melnyk auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

John Grisdale (nearly don’t recognize him without that 70s stash)
14-15 Spx Base Autograph (NBA) John Grisdale auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_7371 John Grisdale by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Thomas Gradin
13-14 Ultimate Collection 1997 Retro Thomas Gradin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Sp Authentic Limited base Thomas Gradin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Gino Odjick: plagued with health issues the last few but good to seem him better and appearing in public again:
Gino Odjick 8x10 auto 2 by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_7220 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Daniel and Henrik Sedin: no introduction needed. Good to see them live and up close; the decision making is so far above everyone else, it is just unbelievable:
11-12 Panini Contenders NHL Inks DUAL Sedin Oddleifson by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_7375 Daniel & Henrik Sedin by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Okay, y’all still with me? There is MORE. This is what you were scrolling for: the TOP 10 for this December 2019 post. I never thought I could beat the Top 10 from the 2018 post, but this one may have possibly edged that one!
Here we go!

#10. Doug Gilmour: one of my all-time favorite players was invited to sign at the 2019 Western Canada Sports Collectors Show! I literally could not really think of anything super creative to have Gilmour sign, as I’d gotten most things I’ve wanted done already from previous private signings, but it was cool to get a pic with this guy:

02-03 BAP Ultimate Magnificent Game Used Jersey Doug Gilmour auto jersey by Richard Ho, on Flickr
NYRI5576 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

#9. Mikael Kingsbury: we all know this name, literally the most accomplished mogul skier of ALL TIME. Nicknamed “The King,” he is the all-time record holder for World Cup wins, 16 Crystal Globes, 4x World Champion, Olympic gold 2018 Pyeongchang, and Lou marsh winner in 2019. Great to watch him live on the ski hill:

17-18 UD Exquisite Collection Signatures Mikael Kingsbury auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 Panini Noir Spotlight Signatures (NBA) Mikael Kingsbury auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2002 Sp Game Used Course of a Champion (Golf) Mikael Kingsbury auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_4411 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

#8. Rookie phenom: Quinn Hughes: not the biggest but boy is this guy shifty! Calder finalist from Canucks 3 years in a row?

08-09 Sp Authentic FW Quinn Hughes RC auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Sp Authentic FW Quinn Hughes auto RC by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Quinn Hughes 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_6932 Quinn Hughes by Richard Ho, on Flickr

#7. Mike Vernon: again, one of my favorite goalies of all time. Unfortunately, haven’t gotten a chance to meet him in person, but he is a hard autograph to come by…only a few ITG autos mostly unlicensed. Loved watching this guy especially his Red Wings days and the rivalry vs. Patrick Roy. These autos were obtained through Sport Authentix Inc.:

17-18 UD Cup Autographed Ticket Booklets Mike Vernon auto ticket by Richard Ho, on Flickr
17-18 UD Cup Autographed Ticket Booklets Mike Vernon by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Sp Authentic SOTT Mike Vernon auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Mike Vernon 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

#6. Brooke Henderson: were you wondering where this Canadian star was in the above golf section? She is already the winningest Canadian professional golfer in Canadian history, Olympian, Bobbie Rosenfeld Award winner, and still on the rise:

2014 UD Black Golf Lustrous Signatures (PGA) Brooke Henderson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2001 UD Golf Player's Ink Brooke Henderson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
2004 Sp Signature Golf Signature Shots Brooke Henderson by Richard Ho, on Flickr
CABY0173 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

#5. Elias Pettersson: what can I say, this kid keeps getting it done. Calder Trophy, All-Star game, chasing Pavel Bure’s club records. Wow

2008 UD Premier Dual Emerging Stars (NFL) Gradin - Pettersson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Sp Authentic FW Elias Pettersson RC auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 UD Young Guns Elias Pettersson RC by Richard Ho, on Flickr
18-19 Ultimate Collection Rookies Elias Pettersson auto RC by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Elias Pettersson 8x10 auto (2) by Richard Ho, on Flickr

#4. Hayden Christensen & Ian McDiarmid at Star Wars Celebration: these two saved what was a relatively weak Celebration guest line-up. With Christensen I was able to complete all my Star Wars 8x12 posters from Episode I through VIII. With McDiarmid, I am now starting some of the original trilogy poster variants. Can’t wait to get these all framed:

Star Wars II - Attack of the Clones - Hayden Christensen 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Star Wars VI - Ian McDiarmid 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
IMG_5322 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

#3. Paul Kariya. Wait, what?

My reaction as well when I learned he was going to appear in public at a Rogers Hometown Hockey event in Whistler. At first I thought they wrote Paul instead of Steve Kariya by mistake. But low and behold, there he was as advertised. One of the greatest players in the league during my childhood, one of my favorite players, and just a tough signer all throughout his career. Yes you might see him coming off the bus or at the rink, but a sit-down signing? No fricken way. Check these amazing signatures:

13-14 Sp Authentic Limited Paul Kariya auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Paul Kariya 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Kariya and rich by Richard Ho, on Flickr

#2. Marvel’s Avengers (edition 3). The superheroes always seem to take this spot right?
Avengers: Endgame, just awesome. Ace Comic Con just keeps bringing them on, and I love it.

Chris Evans: the real Captain America
Chris Evans 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Zoe Saldana: Gamora
Zoe Saldana 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Don Cheadle: War Machine
Don Cheadle 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Don Cheadle 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jeremy Renner: Hawkeye
Jeremy Renner 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
Rnenn by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Josh Brolin: Thanos
Josh Brolin 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr
10-01945 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

#1. Michael J. Fox: the star in one of the greatest movies of all time Back to the Future, as well as being a great humanitarian, advocate for Parkinson’s research, and inductee in Canada’s Walk of Fame and an Officer of the Order of Canada! Glad to have met him this year as some health issues had him cancel at last year’s Calgary Fan Expo. The poster features signatures from Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson, and Thomas F. Wilson:

With Michael J. Fox & Christopher Lloyd
Christopher Lloyd & Michael J Fox (BTTF) by Richard Ho, on Flickr

BTTF - Fox-Lloyd-Thompson-Wilson auto 27x40 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Well, that’s all for this recap folks! Thanks for stickin around to read it all, and I hope you enjoyed it all. There will be much, much more to come, I guarantee it =) Till next time!

 

[HammerHawks]

SOOOO many insane customs, my goodness. My favorite is the Brogan Rafferty since he is a friend of mine!

 

[SNobles]

Wow Wow Wow!!!

That is just unreal.

I am not sure how I can pick just one so I will do one sports related and one non-sports.

Sports related I am most envious of the Brooke Henderson stuff.

Non-Sports related and likely overall most envious (sad to say it) is the Boy Meets World stuff. lol

Thanks for giving us a behind the scenes look at your adventures.

Scott

 

[capsfan30]

I...I...I don't even know where to start...

:jawdrop:
I literaly look forward to your post every year, and I am in absolute awe, every year. I love everything. Literally, everything. My favorites have to be the Jay Beagle and Michael J. Fox, though. The rest of it, man, is just insane too.

I have a few questions, though. First, how do you decide what layout you want each individual to sign? Some of them, I understand (designs from their rookie season, or a season they were active, etc), but what about those older guys who weren't around in the autograph age? Second, those autograph ticket booklets, are those real tickets that you cut up for the cards? Or replicas printed on the paperboard?

I think I had other questions as well, but forgot as I continued to scroll and read for LITERALLY AN HOUR AND A HALF. And loved every moment of it. Congrats and thanks for sharing! :beer::laugh:

 

[webottew]

Simply gobsmacked. The dedication, time and effort to make the custom cards and track down the people is awesome.

Nice work on continuing your impressive PC.

 

[Craig2]

I can see why Allison Mack didn't make the Smallville cast photo.

Those customs are fantastic.

 

[creasecollector]

Your autograph collection knows no limits. Excellent show as always! I really like scrolling through and reading about all your additions. It's really fun!

As a hockey fan and sports nut in general, I really like seeing all of these names in your thread. Brings back a lot of great Canadian sports moments!

:beer:

 

[bamlinden]

SPEECHLESS!!!!!

Attention. To. Detail.

Love everything about this post. Hope all is well Richard.

Thanks for sharing.

 

[langway05]

This is a "microphone drop" worthy thread.

You had me at the Paul Kariya Auto's, outstanding. :thumbsup:

Although the Jay Beagle auto's hold a soft spot. :beer:

Thanks for this thread of auto & custom goodness.

 

[steveottfan]

Love the autographs. Thanks for the show!

 

[grebeshkov37]

Always one of my favorite threads to scroll through, the quality of your custom cards are absolutely astounding. If you'd be willing to share any templates of your stuff, I would be beyond delighted as I like to make a few customs here and there too.

Anyways it was a real pleasure getting to scroll through this thread!

 

[nhlderek]

Wow, that is an absolutely incredible show and tell. Always love reading and seeing your incredible work.

 

[Whoop]

One of the best shows every year.

 

[JR]

Holy moly! Great stuff.
Couldn’t imagine having a dial up connection for this post.

 

[Uhtred the Viking]

Amazing! That was quite the journey from top to bottom. Really like the look of your custom cards, great way to connect with the athletes, actors, etc.

 

[Bureman12000]

Holy sh**, that's one massive S&T! A lot of great stuff in here, love your custom Canucks cards. I think my 2 fav's are the Green Men dual auto (awesome) and love the inscription Billy Dee wrote with his auto, haha. Oh...and nice Pavel's too. Is it confirmed he's no longer signing for UD??

 

[CeddieB]

Wow! Soooo much awesome stuff! I as well look forward to your year in review post every year.

My customs that stood out for me are the DuFour-Lapointe sisters and Michael Kingsbury - really cool designs. The autographed ticket booklets are great too, especially Mike Vernon.

Well done!

 

[terry1hockeyfan]

As a huge sports nut and Olympic fan, I love your dedication to seeking out so many incredible athletes and movie stars. Thank you for sharing your amazing collection with us.

 

[bto3105]

No brainer....back to the future is the forsure #1.

Awesome post and really enjoyed scrolling through

 

[crjeff]

Always a journey , thanks .I love the fact that you celebrate canadian olympians .for me the most exciting thing was the olivia knowles, as she is from Campbell River and she worked with us last summer. would love to have a copy of that card for my Campbell river Hockey collection.
thanks for the show and your awesome work and dedication.
Jeff