Roughriders monitoring poor air quality conditions ahead of Labour Day Classic

Photo courtesy: Joel Gasson

The Saskatchewan Roughriders are monitoring air quality conditions ahead of their Labour Day Classic matchup with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

The team released the following statement on Sunday afternoon.

The Saskatchewan Roughriders, alongside the CFL, CFLPA and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers are actively monitoring the air quality conditions using our in-stadium instruments to ensure safe conditions for our players, coaches, staff and fans.

Kick off remains set for 5 p.m. with Coors Light Party in the Park opening at 2 p.m. We look forward to seeing you there!

Updates will be provided through our social media channels if required.

Wildfire smoke has been a persistent problem for CFL games in the prairies in recent years, with the Riders making similar announcements ahead of several other games this season. No game has been cancelled or delayed due to air quality conditions.

In 2019, the CFL and CFL Players’ Association (CFLPA) agreed that players should not practice or play outdoors if the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is seven or higher. As of 12:00 p.m. EDT, the AQHI in Regina was a 10, with forecasts projecting a drop to a seven in the evening.

According to Environment Canada, air quality due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and vary considerably from hour to hour.

The Riders (5-5) and Bombers (9-2) are scheduled to kick off at 7:00 p.m. EDT in front of a sold-out Mosaic Stadium.

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