CANADIAN HALL OF FAME INDUCTION OF MURRAY, KEHELA et al.

I too shared the thrill of the Canadian HOF induction of Eric and Sami (along with other revered Maple Leaf players whom I did not know nearly as well).  It brought back touching memories of July 19, 2001 in Toronto — to another Hall of Fame Celebration — this one sponsored by the American Contract Bridge League.

In fact, I remember overhearing a telephone interlude with Sami.   Norman was serving on the HOF Committee and was assigned to call his close former teammates Eric and Sami to receive permission to honor them in the Summer Nationals by presenting them with the Von Zedtwitz Award (usually given to deceased players or otherwise deserving overlooked players).  

Sami, in his inimitable soft, quiet way (fully aware that most of those voted into the VZ category were six feet under), immediately replied to Norman something to the effect “Yes, but only in the LIVING category.”   Terms accepted!  By the way, don’t be shocked by the word “permission” as Mike Lawrence (for his own personal reasons) refused to allow his name to be placed on the ballot.  

Meanwhile — back to my Canadian friends.   The earlier omissions of Murray and Kehela were obviously EGREGIOUSLY OUTRAGEOUS as their exceptional individual talents and high moral ethics were of towering caliber — and in the opinion of many, a disgrace to keep passing them over in favor of many much less talented U. S. candidates and recipients.   It was one of the most embarrassing oversights in ACBL HOF history and many (including yours truly) will never forget it!!!   However, you cannot blame the ACBL — but rather the process which seemed to have had great flaws (and still does).   Meanwhile, back to 2001. The very long overdue night had finally arrived. 

I remember that Montreal evening nine years ago and Sami and Eric (in their own individual ways) stole the show.   No one wanted the program to end as their routines were as good as any stage show ever witnessed.  It was indeed a love-in and the roaring laughter continued to bring down the house.   It brought to mind Linda’s closing in her beautiful tribute, “The Canadian Hall of Fame Love-In”

“This was an audience of peers and each of us was acknowledging the great contribution made by these historic players. It wasn’t even the kind of standing ovation you sometimes give in the theater for an exceptional performance. This was more than that. It was a feeling that all of us in that room were comrades.”

I assure you, there was no less enthusiasm in 2001 by their American brethren who loved and revered Murray and Kehela.  It was not about Nationalism or Comrades — but epitomized the highest esteem in which these two were held (and utter shame for the disgusting oversight of earlier years) as evidenced by their American fans in the audience who came out in droves to honor their overdue recognition.  Truly a time to celebrate.

What is even nicer – they have been acknowledged by two great countries!