sbangayan86’s COLOSSAL 2018 OLYMPIC MADNESS: mooore Autographs, Customs, Olympians, Comic Cons, early TOP 10!! (++scans)

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richie.rocket.cards

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Hello HI friends!

Cannot believe it’s been 10 months since my last update…but what a time it’s been! There’s certainly been no shortage of awesome sport/athlete events; thanks to my flexible work, I’ve been able to take multiple small trips to CRAZY events that would’ve otherwise been out of reach!

My Canucks autograph collection has been slow to progress this year…but happy to say I am now at 91.03% completion, with autographs of 548 of 602 players (pictured in Canucks uniform)

Anyhow, less talk, to the SHOW! (Better grab some potato chips)

(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!)

So basically the only highlight of the Canucks’ dismal 17-18 season was the season-end celebration of Daniel and Henrik Sedin’s wonderful careers as they were set to retire from the game.

Here’s a piece that had been hiding in my closet for a while, but I’ve now got it up on the wall…Canucks Captains:

Canucks Captains by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Thanks Hank and Danny for so many years of amazing hockey in Vancouver!

Daniel Sedin 8x10 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Henrik Sedin 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Other Canucks custom additions:

Mike Duco! This autograph was TOUGH to get…Duco doesn’t respond to mail. Luckily, a fellow collector helped me get this IP via the Peterborough Petes

16-17 UD Premier Signatures Spectrum Mike Duco auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Mike Corrigan: another toughie, this took 6 years and 3 attempts to come back TTM

11-12 Parkhurst Champions Renditions Mike Corrigan auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Corey Hirsch!
05-06 Ultimate Collection Signature Logos Corey Hirsch auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Mark Wotton
2008 UD Exquisite Notations (NFL) Mark Wotton auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

11-12 UD Signature Sensations Mark Wotton auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Brian Glynn: 5 year return, this was mailed out in 2012?!
01-02 Sp Authentic (NBA) Signatures Gold Brian Glynn auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jussi Jokinen: where is this guy now??
17-18 Sp Game Used Blue Jussi Jokinen auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

17-18 Sp Game Used Inked Sweaters Jussi Jokinen jersey auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0789 rich with Jokinen by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Bryan Smolinski

09-10 Ultimate Collection Signatures Bryan Smolinski auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

14-15 Panini Immaculate Collection Ink Bryan Smolinski auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Bob Hurlburt!
2005 SpX Superscripts (NFL) auto Bob Hurlburt auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Philip Holm: single game for the Canucks then he was shipped out to Vegas…good thing I met him as he’s now gone to the KHL

16-17 UD Premier Rookie Signatures Philip Holm auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

17-18 Sp Game Used Authentic Rookies Philip Holm auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Derrick Pouliot
14-15 UD Trilogy Signature Pucks Derrick Pouliot auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Brendan Leipsic
2001 UD Autographed Game Jersey Brendan Leipsic auto jersey by Richard Ho, on Flickr

14-15 UD Ice Glacial Graphs Black Brendan Leipsic auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 UD Gold Spectrum Brendan Leipsic auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Anders Nilsson

2009 UD Black (NFL) Anders Nilsson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Thomas Vanek patch auto!
07-08 UD Exquisite Collection auto patch (NBA) Thomas Vanek auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Nic Dowd: obtained IP at the last Canucks practice of the year
17-18 UD Canada Juniors Black Nic Dowd auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

17-18 UD Overtime Nic Dowd auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0809 - Nic Dowd-Brandon Sutter-Troy Stecher by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Sam Gagner

2007 Ultimate Collection Ultimate Ink Sam Gagner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Ashton Sautner
05-06 Sp Authentic Rookie Authentics Ashton Sautner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 UD Premier Rookie Ashton Sautner autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Ryan Shannon

15-16 Panini National Treasures Signature Moves (NBA) Ryan Shannon auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

17-18 UD Synergy Autographs Ryan Shannon auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Robert Nordmark cut auto:
2015 Panini National Treasures Multi-Sport Robert Nordmark by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2015 Panini National Treasures Multi-Sport Robert Nordmark auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

On that note, got to meet a lot of other Canucks that practice as well:

Jake Virtanen
03-04 UD Exquisite Collection Noble Nameplates Jake Virtanen auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0816 - Jake Virtanen by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Tyler Motte

16-17 Panini National Treasures Penmanship (NBA) Tyler Motte auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 UD Parkhurst Priority Signings Tyler Motte auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Daniel Sedin All-Star auto!

01-02 UD Ice Clear Cut Daniel Sedin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Nolan Baumgartner: gorgeous autograph!
05-06 Sp Authentic SOTT Nolan Baumgartner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

1999 Sp Authentic Chirography (MLB) Nolan Baumgartner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Couple of seasoned Canucks warriors:

Alex Edler
IMG_0797 - Alex Edler by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Chris Tanev
IMG_0800 - Chris Tanev by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Manny Malhotra
IMG_0805 - Manny Malhotra by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Adam Gaudette: whiz kid won the Hobey Baker and has a bright future; love these 10 year retro RCs

08-09 Sp Authentic Future Watch Adam Gaudette auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

07-08 Ultimate Collection Ultimate Rookies Adam Gaudette auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Gaudette, Adam 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0888 - Adam Gaudette by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Bo Horvat

Bo Horvat 8x10 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0812 - Bo Horvat by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Brock Boeser
Brock Boeser 8x10 auto 2 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

So this year, for the first time ever, I went to see some LIVE curling…not once, but THREE times!

I went to Penticton, BC for the Scotties Tournament of Hearts (Cdn women’s nationals), the Pinty’s Champions Cup in Calgary (a huge tournament with all the major winners for the season gathered together), and the Curler’s Corner Autumn Gold Classic (international women’s championship) in Calgary.

Some of the events had built-in autograph sessions with the players, but all in all, even without an organized signing, the players were all friendly, approachable, and really happy to sign for everyone (at the Champions Cup, they signed for people over the boards, and nobody stopped until everyone in the stadium was satisfied). Also, take note of the clarity of all these signatures…some of the best I’ve seen yet!

Starting with our Canadian reps at the 2018 Winter Olympics (I’m tellin you, there is a TON more Olympics stuff upcoming guys):

Kevin Koe

17-18 UD Canadian Tire Signatures Kevin Koe auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

06-07 UD Signature Sensations (NBA) Kevin Koe auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1150 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Team Homan: Lisa Weagle, Joanne Courtney, Emma Miskew, and Rachel Homan

2007 UD Exquisite Quad Signatures (NFL) Homan-Miskew-Courtney-Weagle quad auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Lisa Weagle (lead)

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

Joanne Courtney (second)

2017 Panini National Treasures Treasured Signatures (MLB) Joanne Courtney auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Emma Miskew (third)

17-18 Sp Authentic Limited Emma Miskew auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Rachel Homan (skip)

2003 Ultimate Collection Signatures (MLB) Rachel Homan auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1099 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Johnny Mo (John Morris): Olympic gold in men’s curling 2010, AND gold in mixed doubles 2018 in Pyeongchang:

IMG_1146 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Other Curling Olympians:

Team Jacobs: the Olympic Champions in Sochi 2014 led by Brad Jacobs for Canada!
08-09 UD Black Quad Auto (NBA) Jacobs-Fry-Harnden-Harnden autos by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2012 UD Black Signatures (NFL) Brad Jacobs auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1103 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Team Hasselborg (Sweden) led by Anna Hasselborg

2005 Spx Superscripts (NFL) quad Hasselborg-McManus-Knochenhauer-Mabergs by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 Ultimate Collection Rookies Anna Hasselborg auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Cheryl Bernard: Olympic silver for Canada in Vancouver 2010

05-06 Sp Signature Edition Marks of Distinction (NBA) Cheryl Bernard auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0452 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Satsuki Fujisawa: Olympic silver in 2018 for Japan

2018 UD Goodwin Champions Goudey Satsuki Fujisawa auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Niklas Edin (Sweden): this guy was sitting in the crowd himself at the Champion’s Cup, perhaps scouting out the other teams? He was super nice, and stopped to look at all the cards I had with me; he was pretty impressed with them =) He took home silver at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics!

2007 Ultimate Collection Rookie Signatures (NFL) Niklas Edin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2005 Ultimate Baseball Stars auto (MLB) Niklas Edin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Eve Muirhead: yep, she pretty, AND won Olympic bronze in Sochi 2014 for UK

06-07 Sp Game Used base Eve Muirhead auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

07-08 UD Exquisite Collection Exclusive Autographs (NBA) Eve Muirhead auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1147 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Mark Nichol: gold medal at the 2006 Olympics for Canada!

01-02 SpX Yzerman Tribute Mark Nichols auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Mike Harris: silver medal at the 1998 Nagano Olympics for Canada!

04-05 UD Legends Classics Signatures Mike Harris auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Team Canada at the Scotties: Englot, Cameron, Wilson, Wescott

Team Englot (Canada 2018) auto program by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0450 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jocelyn Peterman: previously on Team Carey, she’s now moved to play for the Jennifer Jones rink

98-99 MVP ProSign Jocelyn Peterman auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2000 UD Authentics Encore (NFL) Jocelyn Peterman auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Chelsea Carey

99-00 UD Authentics (NBA) Chelsea Carey auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Glenn Howard

16-17 Panini Flawless Excellence Signatures (NBA) Glenn Howard auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

11-12 Sp Game Used Authentic Rookies Gold Glenn Howard auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Tracy Fleury

1999 Sp Top Prospects Vital Signs (NBA) Tracy Fleury auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2014 UD Exquisite Endorsements (Golf) Tracy Fleury auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Casey Scheidegger

12-13 Sp Authentic Signature Stoppers Casey Scheidegger auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0478 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Laura Walker: 2018 World Mixed Doubles Championship bronze

17-18 UD Canadian Tire Team Canada Signatures Laura Walker auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2007 Sp Authentic Chirography Gold (NFL) Laura Walker auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2617 Laura Walker by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jamie Sinclair: up and coming skip for Team USA

17-18 Sp Authentic Future Watch Jamie Sinclair auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

17-18 Sp Authentic Global Chirography Jamie Sinclair auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2620 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Team Einarson version 1: Kerri Einarson, Selena Kaatz, Liz Fyfe, Kristen MacCuish: this team has been on the rise the last couple years on the curling scene; but being based out of Manitoba, often came second to the powerful Jennifer Jones team

Team Einarson (Wild Card 2018) 5x7 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Selena Kaatz

02-03 UD Premier Collection Signatures Silver Selena Kaatz auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Kerri Einarson

05-06 Sp Authentic Sign of the Times All Stars (NBA) Kerri Einarson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0465 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Team Einarson version 2: at the conclusion of the season, Einarson joined up with three other skips (Brianne Meilleur, Shannon Birchard, Val Sweeting) to form a super team! So far in 18-19, they are CLEANING UP the awards, recently taking the championship at the Autumn Gold Classic:

Shannon Birchard

2001 UD Evolve (Golf) Shannon Birchard auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

07-08 UD Exquisite Inscriptions (NBA) Shannon Birchard auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Val Sweeting

2006 Ultimate Collection Achievement Signatures (NFL) Val Sweeting auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

07-08 UD Exquisite Collection Finalists Einarson-Sweeting dual auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2616 Team Einarson by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Finally, some curling legends:

Kevin Martin: thanks kmitchel for helping me obtain this off COMC; Martin of course won gold as the skip for the 2010 men’s team!

2014 UD Goodwin Champions Kevin Martin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Russ Howard: now a curling analyst, but he famously joined the young Team Gushue in 2006 for the Turin Olympics, and captured Olympic gold for Canada!

16-17 UD Premier Signature Champions Russ Howard auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0461 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Team Jennifer Jones: led by Jennifer Jones, this team has won virtually every significant curling championship over the last 10 years, the highlight for me being their tremendous showing at the 2014 Sochi Olympics, where they captured Olympic gold for Canada!

Kaitlyn Lawes: she was part of the duo with John Morris this year in mixed doubles this year in Pyeongchang, capturing Olympic gold!

16-17 UD Cup Autographed Pro Book Kaitlyn Lawes by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 UD Cup Autographed Pro Book Kaitlyn Lawes auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jill Officer

2014 UD Black Golf Signatures Jill Officer auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Dawn McEwen

2004 SpX Buyback auto (MLB) Dawn McEwen auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jennifer Jones

08-09 UD Black Pride of a Nation Jennifer Jones auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

17-18 UD Black Lustrous Ink Jennifer Jones auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0484 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And...Brad Gushue: 2006 Olympic Gold in Turin. He has since been one of the very best, near unbeatable skips in the men's game

17-18 Sp Game Used Red Brad Gushue auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

14-15 UD Premier Signature Champions Brad Gushue auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1149 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Moving away from sports for a moment...

I attended my first Comic Con in spring this year at the Calgary Fan Expo. My primary reason for flying over was a chance to meet Michael J. Fox who was scheduled to attend!

Sadly, he had to cancel at the last minute due to some health issues. Oh well, what can you do. There was less autographing to do at the Con as such, but it was still a fun time, and I added a few Disney princesses to the collection:

Jodi Benson aka voice of Ariel in The Little Mermaid

Jodi Benson 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Paige O’Hara: voice of Belle in Beauty and the Beast (an upgrade)

Paige O'Hara 8x12 auto version 2 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Okay this one’s not a princess, but it was one of my favorite cartoons as a kid. This came via consignment through a Facebook autographing group:

Christy Carlson Romano
Christy Carlson Romano 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Around that same time, Celebrity Authentics finally conducted their private signing with Samuel L. Jackson, whom I had been waiting nearly 2 years for! I am now only missing a signed Episode II poster..(excluding VIII The Last Jedi, because I seriously just laughed at the absurdity of the storytelling in that film)

Star Wars III - Samuel L Jackson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

One pretty big return through consignment via FB: Evangelline Lilly (through FanExpo Toronto)  she plays Wasp in the Ant-Man movies:

Evangeline Lilly 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Okay, back to hockey!!

It has been long on a back-burner project to obtain autographs of all Canadian gold medal winners at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics; those games carry special significance for me given they occurred right in my hometown.
So this year I began to seriously acquire and check off some of the list, starting with Women’s Hockey (ideal if cards picture them in Olympic uniform):

First, a TTM return from Kim St. Pierre!

15-16 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Kim St Pierre front by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Kim St Pierre auto jersey by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Charline Labonte

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Gold Charline Labonte auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Catherine Ward

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Catherine Ward auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Catherine Ward auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Haley Irwin

17-18 UD Team Canada Juniors Premium Haley Irwin auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

11-12 OPC Update Team Canada Signatures Haley Irwin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 Ultimate Collection Haley Irwin jersey auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Meghan Agosta

17-18 UD Team Canada Juniors Premium Meghan Agosta auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

06-07 ITG Going for Gold Meghan Agosta auto_zps0njmwikn by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Becky Kellar

06-07 ITG Going for Gold Becky Kellar auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Gina Kingsbury

06-07 ITG Going for Gold Gina Kingsbury auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Sarah Vaillancourt

07-08 ITG O Canada Sarah Vaillancourt auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Carla MacLeod

13-14 UD Team Canada Signatures Carla MacLeod auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

14-15 OPC Team Canada Signatures Carla MacLeod auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Rebecca Johnston

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Rebecca Johnston auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

06-07 Sp Game Used Spectrum Rebecca Johnston auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Rebecca Johnston auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jayna Hefford

14-15 UD Canada Juniors Jayna Hefford auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 OPC Team Canada Signatures Jayna Hefford auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

12-13 Sp Authentic SOTT Jayna Hefford auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Meaghan Mikkelson

16-17 UD Canada Juniors Meaghan Mikkelson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jennifer Botterill

09-10 UD The Champions Jennifer Botterill auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Gillian Apps

11-12 UD Priority Signings Gillian Apps auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

17-18 UD Canadian Tire Signatures Gillian Apps auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Gillian Apps auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Caroline Ouellette

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Caroline Ouellette auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Hayley Wickenheiser

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Gold Hayley Wickenheiser auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

09-10 UD The Champions Hayley Wickenheiser auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Marie-Philip Poulin

16-17 UD Team Canada Juniors Black Marie-Philip Poulin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Eventually, I just thought “screw it,” and started acquiring EVERY woman to represent Canada Women’s Hockey at ANY Olympics:

Brianne Jenner

16-17 UD Team Canada Juniors Black Brianne Jenner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Blayre Turnbull

16-17 UD Team Canada Juniors Blayre Turnbull auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Laura Fortino

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Laura Fortino auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Genevieve Lacasse

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

Tara Watchorn

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Tara Watchorn auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Natalie Spooner

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Natalie Spooner auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jocelyne Larocque

16-17 UD Canada Juniors Jocelyne Larocque auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Jocelyne Larocque auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Brigette Lacquette

12-13 UD Exquisite Collection Endorsement Autograph (NBA) Brigette Lacquette auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jennifer Wakefield

16-17 UD Team Canada Juniors Black Jennifer Wakefield auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

17-18 UD Team Canada Juniors Jennifer Wakefield auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Jennifer Wakefield auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Lauriane Rougeau

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Lauriane Rougeau auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 UD Team Canada Juniors Black Lauriane Rougeau auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Lauriane Rougeau auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Melodie Daoust

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Melodie Daoust auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

14-15 UD Team Canada Juniors Melodie Daoust auto patch by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Melodie Daoust 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jillian Saulnier

04-05 Sp Signature Edition Marks of Distinction (NBA) Jillian Saulnier auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

05-06 Ultimate Collection Marquee Attractions Jillian Saulnier auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

17-18 UD Team Canada Juniors Jillian Saulnier patch auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Halli Krzyzaniak: alright, you caught me, she hasn’t actually competed at the Olympics for Canada; but I think she will be there in 2022!
2005 Ultimate Baseball Stars auto (MLB) Halli Krzyzaniak auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Shortly after the Olympics in Pyeonchang concluded, the Juno Awards came to Vancouver. It is funny, but I guess, quite Canadian, that a music awards event would feature a celebrity hockey game called the “Juno Cup”

Anyhow, numerous sports celebrities were playing!

Natalie Spooner: she was the captain of the “athlete” team (vs the “musicians” team)

15-16 Panini Noir (NBA) Natalie Spooner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2012 UD Black Signatures (NFL) Natalie Spooner auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0822 - Nat Spooner by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Troy Crowder was invited to play?!

02-03 Sp Authentic SOTT Troy Crowder auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2014 UD Exquisite Football Signatures (NFL) Troy Crowder auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0823 - Troy Crowder by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Mark McMorris: loved his comeback story; what a crazy journey he had to go through en route to his second Olympic bronze!

14-15 Panini Flawless Transitions (NBA) Mark McMorris auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Arkells anyone?
IMG_0833 - Arkells by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Another post-Olympic event in the spring was the first annual Wickfest fundraiser for growing the game in non-traditional hockey countries (this year they went to India); it was held in Surrey this year and I was glad to be one of the donors and attendees:

Here’s myself with a few of the organizers (of the India outreach trip) holding up some Olympic bling
IMG_1059 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Meaghan Mikkelson

IMG_1071 Meaghan Mikkelson by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Meaghan Mikkelson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Kaillie Humphries: Canadian bobsleigh and two-time Olympic champion (2010 and 2014)! Check her autograph, she draws a small bobsled on it =)

2010 UD World of Sports Kaillie Humphries auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Kaillie Humphries auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1067 Kaillie Humphries by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Adam van Koeverden: Olympic gold in 2004 sprint kayak (and numerous other Olympics medals too)

15-16 UD Buybacks 15-16 UD Champs Adam van Koeverden auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2003 Sp Authentic SOTT Adam van Koeverden auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1053 Adam van Koeverden by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And a few things from Hayley Wickenheiser herself:

06-07 Black Diamond Gemography Hayley Wickenheiser auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 UD Team Canada Master Collection Base Hayley Wickenheiser auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Hayley Wickenheiser auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Some of the biggest Canadian sports storylines this year were in Figure Skating…particularly that 2018 Pyeonchang would be the last Olympics for some major talents that had represented us for so many years. I was fortunate to see Team Canada this year at various events in Vancouver: the Canadian Nationals which served as an Olympic trial, the Stars On Ice Thank You Canada Tour, and just a month ago, the ISU World Junior Championships!

Patrick Chan: it is crazy to think that this guy has competed in three Olympics already, not to mention his amassing of an impressive resume chalk full of Olympic, World Championship, Grand Prix, and Four Continents titles! He’s now retired from competitive skating, so I was thankful to have seen him live

17-18 UD Ice Superb Script Patrick Chan auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 UD Ice Superb Script Patrick Chan auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2418 Patrick Chan by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Gabrielle Daleman: only 20, she had one of the most impressive free skates at the Canadian Championships this year to clinche an Olympic spot; keep an eye on this one, she is certainly on the rise!

16-17 UD Ice Rinkside Signings Gabrielle Daleman auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 UD Ice Glacial Graphs Gabrielle Daleman auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Gabrielle Daleman 5x7 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Javier Fernandez: representing Spain, winning bronze in the men’s singles in Pyeongchang (but he trains in Canada)

17-18 UD Ice Superb Script Javier Fernandez auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 Sp Authentic Moments Signature Booklet Autographs Javier Fernandez front by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 Sp Authentic Moments Signature Booklet Autographs Javier Fernandez auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1242 Fernandez and Daleman by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Andrew Poje and Kaitlyn Weaver: set to take the reigns in Canadian Ice Dance with the retirement of Virtue and Moir

2006 Ultimate Collection Dual Signatures (MLB) Weaver and Poje dual auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1236 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Alaine Chartrand: previous Canadian champion

15-16 UD Ice Rinkside Signings Alaine Chartrand auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Brian Orser: legendary skater now legendary coach

17-18 Sp Authentic SOTT Rookies Brian Orser auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2416 Brian Orser by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Here’s another legend: Elvis Stojko, who won two Olympic silvers in men’s singles 1994 Lillehammer, and 1998 Nagano (thanks kmitchel for the free fabric)

17-18 Sp Game Used Inked Sweaters Elvis Stojko auto jersey by Richard Ho, on Flickr

17-18 Sp Authentic SOTT Elvis Stojko auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1254 Stojko and Chan by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jeffrey Buttle: Olympic bronze in Turin 2006

17-18 UD Ice Rinkside Signings Jeffrey Buttle auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

97-98 Sp Authentic SOTT Jeffrey Buttle auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Katelyn Osmond: 2018 Olympic bronze in women’s singles, and gold in the team event for Canada!

09-10 UD Ice Rinkside Signings Kaitlyn Osmond auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 UD Artifacts Top 12 Kaitlyn Osmond auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

08-09 Sp Authentic Marks of Distinction Kaetlyn Osmond auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Kaetlyn Osmond 5x7 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1231 Osmond and Buttle by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Piper Gilles: in an ice dance pair with Paul Poirer, she will also be tasked with leading the charge after Virtue/Moir retire:

09-10 UD The Champions Piper Gilles auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Joannie Rochette: got this return TTM! You’ll remember of course, she had a very emotional journey en route to bronze in Vancouver 2010 (and is now in medical school!)

15-16 UD Ice Rinkside Signings Joannie Rochette auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2004 Sp Authentic Scripts for Success (NFL) Joannie Rochette auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

For $10, couldn’t pass on buying this: Jamie Sale and David Pelletier! (Hopefully I will meet them somewhere one day)

Sale and Pelletier auto 8x10 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Eric Radford and Meagan Duhamel: this unlikely pair got together on a whim in 2010, but have since been dominating the world in Pairs, culminating in 2018 Olympic Bronze in Pairs, and Gold in the team event! Sad to see them retire as well

2017 UD Goodwin Champions Goudey Sport Royalty Dual Duhamel and Radford autos by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2005 Ultimate Collection Signs of October (MLB) Radford and Duhamel dual auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 UD Team Canada Master Collection Signature Moments Dual Radford and Duhamel front by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 UD Team Canada Master Collection Signature Moments Dual Radford and Duhamel autos by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1233 Radford and Duhamel by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And finally…the legendary ice dance combo: Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir! Five Olympic medals, including three gold together…unbelievable!!

09-10 Sp Game Used Extra Significance Virtue Moir auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0407 - with Scott Moir and Tessa Virtue by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Phew! Welp, I am happy to say this now concludes the first HALF??!

Yes guys, now is the time to REFILL said popcorn!

For the “Intermission” portion, I present to you my travels to Anaheim for the biennial POWER MORPHICON (a comic con devoted to all things Power Rangers)! It’s Morphin’ Time!!

Yes, as you all know, I am a Power Rangers nerd hahah. I have never seen so many celebrity guests at one single Con, and starting on Friday night was the best idea ever, as most line-ups were pretty short. It was fun to not only meet the actors and get signatures, but everyone took time to chat, (look at my customs), take selfies, etc. Wonderful experience and must for any Power Rangers fanat out there! (Also, check the awesome quotes these celebs took time to inscribe)

First, the original Black Mighty Morphin’ Power Ranger: Walter Jones

11-12 UD Cup Dual Autographed Rookie Bookmarks Walter Jones by Richard Ho, on Flickr

11-12 UD Cup Dual Autographed Rookie Bookmarks Walter Jones autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2003 Inkworks Alias Walter Jones autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2239 Walter Jones by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Yellow and Pink from MegaForce: Ciara Hanna (yellow) and Christina Masterson (pink)

10-11 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Ciara Hanna by Richard Ho, on Flickr

10-11 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Ciara Hanna autoraph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

02-03 UD Playbooks (NBA) Christina Masterson by Richard Ho, on Flickr

02-03 UD Playbooks (NBA) Christina Masterson autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Christina Masterson 8x10 autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2246 Ciara Hanna & Christina Masterson by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jennifer Yen: who plays a villain in Power Rangers Lightspeed Rescue

15-16 UD Cup Rookie Gear Jennifer Yen by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 UD Cup Rookie Gear Jennifer Yen autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2225 Jennifer Yen by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jason Faunt: Red Time Force Ranger

12-13 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Jason Faunt by Richard Ho, on Flickr

12-13 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Jason Faunt autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2221 Jason Faunt by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Sean Cw Johnson: Lightspeed Red Ranger

16-17 UD Black Quad Relic Booklets Sean Cw Johnson by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 UD Black Quad Relic Booklets Sean Cw Johnson autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2240 Sean Cw Johnson by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Alyson Kiperman Sullivan: Yellow Wild Force Ranger
15-16 UD Cup Dual Auto Rookie Bookmarks Alyson Kiperman Sullivan by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 UD Cup Dual Auto Rookie Bookmarks Alyson Kiperman Sullivan autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2218 Alyson Kiperman-Sullivan by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Roger Velasco: Black Space Ranger

2013 UD All Time Greats Big Signatures Roger Velasco autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2013 UD All Time Greats Big Signatures Roger Velasco by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2213 Roger Velasco by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Caitlin Murphy: Yellow Operation Overdrive Ranger
2010 UD Iron Man 2 Autographs Caitlin Murphy auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2222 Caitlin Murphy by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Michael Copon: Blue Time Force Ranger

14-15 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Michael Copon by Richard Ho, on Flickr

14-15 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Michael Copon autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Andrew Gray (Red MegaForce Ranger): an upgrade from the one he signed for me last year…recall he signed the quote so big he had no where to sign his name except over his face

13-14 UD Exquisite Year of the Horse Andrew Gray by Richard Ho, on Flickr

13-14 UD Exquisite Year of the Horse Andrew Gray autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Pink and Yellow Power Rangers SPD: Alycia Purrott and Monica May

IMG_2302 Purrott & May by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Dan Southworth: Quantum Ranger in Time Force
2013 UD All Time Greats Big Signatures Dan Southworth by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2013 UD All Time Greats Big Signatures Dan Southworth autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2249 Dan Southworth by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Catherine Sutherland: Pink Zeo Ranger!

15-16 UD Cup Dual Auto Rookie Bookmarks Catherine Sutherland by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 UD Cup Dual Auto Rookie Bookmarks Catherine Sutherland autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Melody Perkins: a villain to start (Astronema) who then converted and became the Pink Lost Galaxy Ranger!

15-16 UD Cup Rookie Gear Melody Perkins by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 UD Cup Rookie Gear Melody Perkins autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

11-12 Spx Shadowbox Signatures Melody Perkins by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2233 melody Perkins by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2292 Melody Perkins cropped by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Rhett Fisher: Titanium Ranger in Lightspeed Rescue

13-14 UD Cup Dual Autographed Rookie Bookmarks Rhett Fisher by Richard Ho, on Flickr

13-14 UD Cup Dual Autographed Rookie Bookmarks Rhett Fisher autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2232 Rhett Fisher by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Claire Blackwelder: Purple Dino Charge Ranger!

02-03 UD Playbooks (NBA) Claire Blackwelder by Richard Ho, on Flickr

02-03 UD Playbooks (NBA) Claire Blackwelder autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Claire Blackwelder 8x10 autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2234 Claire Blackwelder by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Three returns via consignment:

Rose McIver: Yellow RPM Ranger via Fan Expo Toronto

11-12 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Rose McIver by Richard Ho, on Flickr

11-12 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Rose McIver auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Alison MacInnis: Pink Lightspeed Rescue Ranger via RocCon 2018

15-16 UD Cup Dual Autographed Rookie Bookmarks Alison MacInnis by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 UD Cup Dual Autographed Rookie Bookmarks Alison MacInnis auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Amy Jo Johnson! I met her last year and got some awesome things signed, but as I have since REALLY stepped up these Ranger Books, I decided to upgrade her booklet card!

16-17 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Amy Jo Johnson by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Amy Jo Johnson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

One really nice return TTM: Rhoda Montemayor all the way from the UK! Actually, I had originally asked her for one of her behind the scenes photos via social media, to which she responded and sent over a spectacular file. She requested I send her copies of whatever I was making (which I would have either way)…she liked these so much she actually created a shoutout video on Youtube!

This is the card created with the photo she sent:
2010 UD Iron Man 2 Autographs Rhoda Montemayor Overdrive Pink auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

11-12 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Rhoda Montemayor by Richard Ho, on Flickr

11-12 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Rhoda Montemayor auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

The beautiful Adelaide Kane: she plays villain Tenaya 7 in Power Rangers RPM; she has gone on to act in some big things, including Reign, and Once Upon A Time. No question she had a HUGE lineup!

15-16 UD Cup Dual Auto Rookie Bookmarks Adelaide Kane by Richard Ho, on Flickr

15-16 UD Cup Dual Auto Rookie Bookmarks Adelaide Kane autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2289 Adelaide Kane by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Erin Cahill: she had one of the longest lineups of the weekend as she was only there on Saturday; but honestly, it was not a surprise given she is one of the most popular Rangers in the series’ history! A new buddy I met while in another lineup, and myself had to split lining up for Cahill and Adelaide Kane to get them both done. Erin really took her time with each and every fan, some even as much as 10 minutes! Go Pink Time Force Ranger!

13-14 UD Cup Dual Autographed Rookie Bookmarks Erin Cahill by Richard Ho, on Flickr

13-14 UD Cup Dual Autographed Rookie Bookmarks Erin Cahill autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2295 Erin Cahill by Richard Ho, on Flickr

ACT II. Back to Hockey!

First, a really cool addition to the Canucks collection: Pavel Bure Inked Script with a “Russian Rocket” inscription! If anyone has ever submitted items to a Bure private signing, he NEVER writes “Russian Rocket.” With only 25 copies of this, makes this way awesome!

15-16 UD Premier Inked Script Pavel Bure auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Got these two older Sedin buyback cards; I never really paid attention to these cards as I usually prefer Canucks in Canucks uniform, but man, the colors are gorgeous:

Henrik
00-01 UD Reserve Buybacks - 99-00 MVP Henrik Sedin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Daniel
00-01 UD Reserve Buybacks - 99-00 MVP Daniel Sedin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Dave Taylor 500 goal scorers

16-17 UD A Piece of History 1000 Point Club Dave Taylor jersey by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Brent Burns

15-16 Sp Authentic Great White North Brent Burns auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Kevin Bieksa

12-13 Dominion Peerless Patches Kevin Bieksa patch auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Garth Snow pad

98-99 BAP Goaltender Memorabilia Garth Snow pad by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Mike Zalewski: where in the world is this guy?

16-17 UD AHL Mike Zalewski auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Brandon Reid!

Brandon Reid 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Joe Mullen

Joe Mullen auto 8x10 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Rick Martin

Rick Martin auto 8x10 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Canucks Quad Relics

16-17 UD Black Quad Relic Booklets Canucks by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 UD Black Quad Relic Booklets Miller Sedin Bure McLean jersey by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Thatcher Demko: love these recycled RC designs

16-17 Ultimate Collection Thatcher Demko auto RC by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Taylor Hall FW: last season’s Hart winner, and man, he was awesome down the stretch to get those Devils into the playoffs!

10-11 Sp Authentic FW Taylor Hall auto RC by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Owen Nolan UD Canadian Tire Team Canada BLACK /5: gotta love Owen Nolan

17-18 UD Canadian Tire Team Canada Black Owen Nolan auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Next, I was out at several Canucks training camps this summer. One was the prospects camp in Vancouver proper, and the other was the main training camp in Whistler. It was cool to see so many promising young players, I believe the future is bright but there is much work to be done:

How bout our first and second round selections at the 2018 draft? I’ll say, Quinn Hughes certainly looked a step beyond all the other prospects on the ice at the prospects game! Unfortunately, Woo was injured and I didn’t see him play this summer

2009 Sp Signature Edition Reflections (NFL) Quinn Hughes & Jett Woo dual auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1885 Quinton Hughes by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Kole Lind

06-07 Sp Authentic Limited Future Watch Kole Lind auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

05-06 Sp Game Used Auto Draft Kole Lind auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1884 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Ryan Johnson

05-06 Sp Signature edition Scripts for Success (NBA) Ryan Johnson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

10-11 Pinnacle Pencraft auto Ryan Johnson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Guillaume Brisebois

09-10 Ultimate Collection Rookies Guillaume Brisebois auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 UD Top Draft Pick Guillaume Brisebois auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jalen Chatfield

17-18 Sp Authentic SOTT Rookies Jalen Chatfield auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Zack MacEwen

11-12 Sp Game Used Rookie Exclusives Zack MacEwen auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Lukas Jasek

12-13 UD Exquisite Signatures (NBA) Lukas Jasek auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2479 Lukas Jasek by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Carter Bancks

2007 UD Signature Sensations (NFL) Carter Bancks auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Tim Schaller

17-18 UD Synergy Autographs Tim Schaller by Richard Ho, on Flickr

With some vets in Whistler:

Erik Gudbranson
IMG_2430 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Michael Del Zotto
IMG_2439 Michael Del Zotto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Loui Eriksson
IMG_2437 Loui Eriksson by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Sven Baertschi
IMG_2444 Sven Baertschi by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Another very impressive small guy at camp this year was Petrus Palmu! Despite his height, he was killing it in the corners night in and out…I think you’ll be hearing about this guy in the NHL very soon

2018 UD NSCC Top Shelf Petrus Palmu auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

01-02 UD Top Shelf Signatures Petrus Palmu auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2448 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jonah Gadjovich

2017 Panini National Treasures Treasured Signatures (MLB) Jonah Gadjovich auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

13-14 UD Cup Programme of Excellence Jonah Gadjovich auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Gadjovich, Jonah 8x10 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2453 Jonah Gadjovich by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Thatcher Demko

Demko, Thatcher 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And…one Swedish kid I am very excited about (and the Sens may be ripping their hair out for trading away) is Jonathan Dahlen! Although he was not too flashy in the NHL preseason, I think he has world-class offensive skill, and with a bit of seasoning, will be a fan favorite in the near future!

99-00 UD Ovation Super Signatures reverse Jonathan Dahlen auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2452 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Just when you thought there couldn’t be any more Olympic stuff, I present to you…MORE Olympic stuff! Do you all these recognize these Olympic icons??

Penny Olesksiak: Lou Marsh winner as Canada’s top 2016 athlete, and four Olympic medals as a 16 year old in Rio! I met Penny while traveling to Edmonton for a wedding…the same weekend as the Swim Canada National Trials =)

08-09 Sp Authentic Marks of Distinction Penny Oleksiak auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2007 UD Signature Sensations (NFL) Penny Oleksiak auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1944 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Got to meet two great track athletes at the Harry Jerome Track Classic 2018 (this year featuring Canada vs China):

Aaron Brown: bronze in 4x100m relay in Rio 2016

2003 Ultimate Collection Signatures (NFL) Aaron Brown auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2017 UD Goodwin Champions Goudey auto Aaron Brown auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1741 Aaron Brown cropped by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Andre Degrasse (too bad it was signed black on black; he was being swarmed by the masses): silver in 200m, bronze in 100m in Rio 2016

08-09 UD Black Inscriptions (NBA) Andre De Grasse auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1748 Andre De Grasse by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Pierre Lueders: gold in bobsleigh in Nagano 1998

2011 UD Goodwin Champions Pierre Leuders auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Donovan Bailey: 100m gold in Atlanta 1996, in world-record time

2009 UD Goodwin Champions Donovan Bailey auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Gaetan Boucher: legendary speed skater won TWO gold medals in 1984 Sarajevo in 100m and 1500m

16-17 Sp Authentic Silver Skates Gaetan Boucher auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Nancy Greene: some consider her the greatest Canadian female athlete of the 20th century! She won gold and silver in the 1968 Grenoble Olympics in Giant Slalom and Slalom events

2003 UD Finite Signatures (MLB) Nancy Greene auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2015 UD Team Canada Master Collection Signatures Nancy Greene auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Christine Nesbitt: a big checkmark off the list of 2010 Vancouver gold medal winners! Lucky to have met her at the Richmond Oval for an Olympic party during Pyeongchang 2018

16-17 UD Black Rookie Signatures Christine Nesbitt auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

06-07 Black Diamond Gemography Christine Nesbitt auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Christine Nesbitt 5x7 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_0585 - with Christine Nesbitt by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Also met Darcy Marquardt at the same event: silver in 8-women rowing 2012 London

IMG_0573 - with Darcy Marquardt by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jennifer Heil: she won gold in moguls in 2006 Turin, but I’ll always remember her being the first medal winner for Canada in the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. Yes, it was silver, but I was still very proud; and I remember my grandfather pointing out how the Jenn was the only person to take off her glove in the flower ceremony immediately after the finals concluded

2000 UD Master Collection Ultimate Gretzky Jennifer Heil auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 Panini Immaculate Modern Marks Jennifer Heil auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

13-14 Black Diamond Gemography Jennifer Heil auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

a9b73db5-e5db-4773-bac0-22de8dd6cba0 - with Jennifer Heil by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Kim Boutin: our closing ceremony flag bearer in Pyeongchang…three medals in short track speed skating!

16-17 Sp Authentic Silver Skates Kim Boutin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

1999 UD Authentics Encore (NFL) Kim Boutin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Valerie Maltais
16-17 Parkhurst Priority Signings Valerie Maltais auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Pascal Dion and Charle Cournoyer: two of the skaters on the short track 5000m relay in Pyeongchang

16-17 UD Black Pro Penmanship Combos Dion and Cournoyer autos by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Marianne St. Gelais: a long-time member on the national team, she won silver in Vancouver 2010 and also Sochi 2014

99-00 UD Ovation Super Signatures Marianne St Gelais auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Francois Hamelin: another gold medal winner in Vancouver 2010 off the checklist!

10-11 Sp Authentic SOTT Francois Hamelin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2005 UD Pro Sigs Baseball Signature Sensations (MLB) Francois Hamelin auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Francois-Louis Tremblay: quietly one of the winningest Olympic athletes to represent Canada, with 5 medals over 3 Olympics (including Vancouver 2010)!

2003 Ultimate Collection Signatures (NFL) Francois Louis Tremblay auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

14-15 Panini National Treasures Signatures (NBA) Francois Louis Tremblay auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And….Samuel Girard: Gold in the 1000m in Pyeongchang 2018:

04-05 Ultimate Achievements (NBA) Samuel Girard auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2000 UD Authentics Encore (NFL) Samuel Girard auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

While in Calgary for a couple month work stint, I attended the inaugural Fast and Female Annual breakfast fundraiser; it was a fantastic discussion with some great former Olympians about empowering our girls through the values in sport!

The founder of Fast and Female: Chandra Crawford! She started the organization before her amazing Olympic victory in Turin 2006, taking gold in cross country sprint

16-17 UD Premier Signature Award Winners Spectrum Chandra Crawford auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

05-06 Ultimate Collection Achievements Signatures Chandra Crawford auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2736 Chandra Crawford by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Erica Wiebe: Olympic gold in 2016 Rio for women’s wrestling

17-18 Sp Authentic Moments Erica Wiebe auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 UD Black Cup Coronations Erica Wiebe auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2716 Erica Wiebe by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Carol Huynh: Olympic gold in 2008 Beijing for women’s wrestling

13-14 Sp Authentic Chirography Carol Huynh auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

09-10 OPC Canadian Heroes Carol Huynh auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2735 Carol Huynh by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And…Cassie Campbell! Obviously, one of the greatest women hockey players this country has ever produced, captaining Team Canada to the all-important 2002 Sydney Olympic gold (and also winning gold in 2006 Turin)!

11-12 Sp Game Used Significance Authentic Signature Cassie Campbell auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2734 Cassie Campbell by Richard Ho, on Flickr

While in Calgary (actually, I’m still in Calgary), I also went to watch the Long Track Fall Classic competition at the Calgary Olympic Oval:

Olivier Jean: another HUGE checkmark off the Vancouver 2010 gold medal list! He actually won gold in short track in Vancouver, but has since switched to long track

07-08 UD Exquisite Inscriptions (NBA) Olivier Jean auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

05-06 Ultimate Collection Ultimate Signatures Olivier Jean auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2506 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Ted-Jan Bloemen: you probably heard this storyline, but in short, Ted-Jan was a rather insignificant skater for the powerful Team Netherlands for many years, before using his dual-citizenship to then compete for Canada. Welp, he has really taken the speed skating world by storm ever since, breaking world records, podium finishes in the World Championships, and taking both Olympic gold and silver in the long-distance events in Pyeongchang!

2016 Panini National Treasures Signatures (NFL) Ted-Jan Bloemen auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2011 UD Exquisite Signing Day Signatures (NFL) Ted-Jan Bloemen auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2497 by Richard Ho, on Flickr
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Wow. What a journey it’s been the last 10 months…sometimes I lose track of everything I’ve acquired even myself =P For those of you wondering, my post is now (including the Flickr links) at 48 pages in length on Microsoft Word =O

As promised, for the GRANDE FINALE, here is an early TOP 10 acquisitions this year! There was so much goodness coming in this year, it was pretty hard to narrow it down to 10 (I thought maybe I’d need a top 30)! Anyhow, here we go!!

10. Martin Brodeur Team Canada personalized, autographed, and inscribed photo

Brodeur was one of my favorite goalies ever, so when Sport Authentix announced a private signing, I knew I had to pounce. Thanks to John Giffen for this photo!

This is now framed and hanging on my wall. The only reason it isn’t higher on the list is that I didn’t actually meet Martin Brodeur (yet):

Martin Brodeur Team Canada 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

9. Kevin Martin: he is widely regarded as possibly the greatest curler of all time, having won essentially every significant curling event on the planet. He was one of the greats I watched growing up, and of course, had one of the most memorable runs en route to capturing gold right in my hometown Vancouver 2010 Olympics!

For once, I actually didn’t have anything prepared for him while at the Champions Cup this spring…so I had to improvise:

IMG_1152 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1151 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

This curling rock hat features signatures of Kevin Martin as well as the rest of the team that won gold in 2010: John Morris, Ben Hebert, Marc Kennedy!

IMG_1091 with Kevin Martin by Richard Ho, on Flickr

8. Hayley Wickenheiser: Is there a greater female hockey player than Wickenheiser? She has done it ALL: seven World Championship golds, four Olympic golds, two Olympic MVPs, not to mention endeavors to bring the game to the far reaches of the Earth, and now, starting medical school at U of C. She will be in the HHOF in 2019

14-15 UD Team Canada Master Collection Signature Moments Hayley Wickenheiser by Richard Ho, on Flickr

14-15 UD Team Canada Master Collection Signature Moments Hayley Wickenheiser auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1060 Hayley Wickenheiser by Richard Ho, on Flickr

7. Elias Pettersson: yes I know, this guy as of this post has only played 5 NHL games. But, he has been a new source of hope in the city of Vancouver…his skill, hockey sense, and creativity are just off the charts. I haven’t ever felt this buzz from fellow Canucks fans about any single player in Canucks history (people compare it to the hype around Pavel Bure but that was before my time). Hockey is finally exciting again in Canucks land!!

Elias Pettersson 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 UD Top Draft Pick Elias Pettersson auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2449 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

6. Jason David Frank: one of the most iconic Power Rangers of all time. Not only did he play the original Mighty Morphin’ Green Ranger, he also ended up becoming the longest serving ranger of all-time by playing the Mighty Morphin’ White Ranger, the Red Zeo Ranger, Red Turbo Ranger, and Black Dino Thunder Ranger. He goes to a different Con every weekend and has a MASSIVE social media following, and he just loves hanging out with the fandom. Happy to have met him a second time…and with upgraded customs:

16-17 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Jason David Frank by Richard Ho, on Flickr

16-17 UD Cup Autographed Rookie Gear Jason David Frank auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

11-12 UD Cup Rookie Evolution Jason David Frank by Richard Ho, on Flickr

11-12 UD Cup Rookie Evolution Jason David Frank auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_2723 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

5. Jennifer Jones: if there is a model of consistency, it has to be Jennifer Jones. She has won essentially everything there is to win in women’s curling, and she continues to perform at an insane level…just when you think she is down and out in a tournament, she finds a way out of the hole, time and time again. One of her deliveries has been labled “The Shot,” which is saying something! I got to meet her twice this year:

14-15 Spx Shadow Box Jennifer Jones auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1217 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Jennifer Jones 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1112 with Jennifer Jones by Richard Ho, on Flickr

4. Harrison Ford: no, I didn’t actually meet Harrison Ford unfortunately (it is on the bucket list). He has had quite a few public appearances lately, and I am pretty jealous that many fellow autograph collectors have managed to meet him and even score street autographs from him. Oh well, one day..

I’d been looking for a Ford autograph on a Star Wars piece for quite some time, and this awesome 8x10 came up! The autograph is about as neat as they come for a Ford autograph (which sometimes is sloppy enough you can’t even make out the H in Harrison). Check it:

Harrison Ford 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

3. Tessa Virtue & Scott Moir: what more can you say about this pairing, except that I was fortunate to see them skate both in competition at the Canadian Nationals, and at Stars on Ice this year…just wow, these two execute their choreography with such precision, artistry, and emotion. It amazes me every time to think they have been skating and competing together for more than TWENTY years!

They come through time and time again representing Canada on the biggest stages: multiple Olympic golds, World Championship wins, Grand Prix victories..you name it, they won it! They are truly a sports story I wish didn’t have to end:

Virtue and Moir 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

IMG_1251 Virtue and Moir by Richard Ho, on Flickr

2. Marvel’s Avengers

Ace Comic Con is known for bringing current A-listers to the comic con scene, and this year in Seattle, was no exception. I thought the celebrity loaded “Avengers: Infinity War” was possibly the best of all the Marvel movies over the last 10 years…so there was no way I was missing this Con!

Yes, there were some serious frustrations as some big guns in Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth both cancelled within the month leading up =/ But, there was no denying that the line-up was still FANTASTIC!
I only drove down for the one day, and boy, those autograph lines are something else! My gf and I really had to divide and conquer over a 6 hour period to get everything done:

Tom Holland (Spider-Man)

Tom Holland 8x12 autograph by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Sebastian Stan (Winter Soldier)

Sebastian Stan 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Paul Bettany (Vision)

Paul Bettany 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Elizabeth Olsen (Scarlet Witch)

Elizabeth Olsen 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Anthony Mackie (Falcon)

Anthony Mackie 8x10 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Tom Hiddleston (Loki)

Tom Hiddleston 8x12 auto by Richard Ho, on Flickr

Avengers…assemble!

with Avengers Instagram version by Richard Ho, on Flickr

So what could possibly top the Avengers??!

1. Wayne Gretzky

You got it, I actually met The Great One! I’ve heard that Gretzky on occasion is a feature guest at some hockey gala dinners. However, these are usually in Canadian cities, and of course, in a hockey crazed country, the tickets are always completely sold out, are very expensive to begin with, and the line-ups for any of these appearances sound like major chaos! Not to mention they never seem to happen anywhere near home

So when Steiner Sports offered up “An Evening with the Great One” in New York…a hockey city yes, but would pale in comparison to any large Canadian market, I hummed and hawed for approximately 4 minutes before biting the bullet!

There was maybe a hundred people there, and Gretzky told some hockey stories and answered fan questions in a Q&A moderated by Kelly Chase. No, there was no autograph session (well, you could purchase some autographs for an extra cost, but these would not be personalized), but it was still all totally worth it!

Earlier in the year, I did purchase a Gretzky centerpiece for display (this is a stock photo, but you get the idea):
wayne-gretzky-autographed-edmonton-oilers-the-show-86615 by Richard Ho, on Flickr

And here I am, with Gretzky himself!!

1S9A6485 rich and Gretzky crop 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!
 
I don't think I had enough potato chips for that post. That was just..wow. What a collection. That JDF evolution card is amazing.

Thank you for sharing your amazing collection! I think you need to do more frequent updates, though!
 
Thanks for sharing all of your superb photos, stories and autos. Its been said before, but you do amazing work on those custom cards. And thanks for letting me ease through a half hour at work without even noticing, lol.
 
So far beyond ridiculous, your tenacity and patience in bringing this all together is phenomenal. The storyline for each person is wonderful, and I can’t wrap my head around how much work it must be to create all these cards and have them ready if the right person is around



Please don’t stop


Pacman
 
Love your devotion and the variety. Your Power Rangers collection is amazing! Hope you fulfill everything on your list...if there is an end LOL
 
WHAT an incredible read from start to finish!
Your post had me sitting on the edge of my chair wondering "what's next?"
 
Always my favorite show, really love the customs. How often do players, especially Olympic athletes question you about them? Not knocking the athletes by any means, but I imagine the curlers have yet to see something THAT nice of them, they HAVE to want copies, no?
 
So many cool customs! I always look forward to your posts! You are truly passionate about the Hobby and do it for the Love of it/experience, which seems rare these when it's all about $ and investments.
 
Thank-you for taking the time to put this together and share with us. Incredible stuff. I can't get over the quality of your custom work. The amount of time and effort you would have put in to making them all and getting them signed is commendable. Great show.
 
WOW!

There's too many incredible cards that I love to list, so I'll just say WOW!

Thanks for sharing! Awesome curling cards especially! But especially Rachel Homan!
 
Great post Richard! I especially like the Canadian Olympian customs. Brings back some great memories as I was there in 2010 as well. I also really like that Hirsch shield, a really nice card! One of the few posts I really look forward to!

No Aaron Rome additions?? Haha
 
Man, this thread was absolutely insane. The fact that you're able to make/print these cards and get them all signed is some next level dedication on your part. Bravo!

Can't wait for your next show! Fantastic show from top to bottom. :)
 
Man I don’t even know what to say, your skills with cards, how much fun you have, is just incredible. I would love to meet you one day and just chat, and hear about your experiences and even see a fraction of your collection in hand. Thanks for sharing.
 
This is an absolutely nuts S&T. Love the time you spend on writing up your stuff and creating the customs you want. Anytime a Brodeur is #10 that's pretty darn good.
 

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