Rick Mercer Rows (and Reports)

9 March 2011Emily J

Sometimes expectation spoils the thrill of the moment. Whether that expectation is for an upcoming movie, or a recommended ice cream that is said to be the “best in the world”, it often disappoints. With Rick Mercer’s much anticipated visit to our school, one could say the moment was ripe for disappointment. Fortunately for us all, Mercer delivered a day full of laughter and entertainment that exceeded the anticipation.
Arriving at nine in the morning, Rick Mercer prepared to begin his day on the calm waters of Mill Bay. His crewmates, Brentwood’s Olympic silver medalists Dave Calder and Scott Frandsen, along with Olympian Mr. Harold Backer, acknowledged Rick’s superior rowing skills as they performed for an avid student audience watching from the plaza. Rick also tried his hand at coxing the Varsity 8+ and convinced the lads to tow him behind their shell in an inner tube.
Certain students begged for the chance to meet the Canadian idol, the man who exemplifies what it is to be humourously Canadian. With all the attention he receives, one would expect Rick Mercer to be aloof. But no. Once again Mercer defied expectation and behaved like a true Canadian. He cheerfully greeted students and shook hands, patiently posed for photos, all the while cracking jokes for our entertainment. As Mercer’s day at Brentwood ended, the campus was still abuzz with the infectious happiness that he brought. The students headed to dinner, having posted pictures of their eventful day on Facebook, and enjoyed the happy aftermath that Rick’s visit had caused.
Rick Mercer exemplified what we believe and hope it means to be Canadian: he was modest, friendly, and funny. His visit was inspiring and entertaining, leaving us all with a sense of anticipation for the airing of the Mercer Report on CBC later this month.

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