Saskatchewan

Regina, Saskatoon mayors place friendly wager on whose city will have best 1st dose rate by July 1

Whichever city gets the most people vaccinated per capita by Canada Day wins. The losing mayor has to lip synch a song of the winning mayor's choice. 

Losing mayor has to lip synch a song of the winning mayor's choice

People in Regina line up for their vaccine at a mobile clinic in Regina. Health officials are urging people to get both shots to guard against variants, including the more contagious delta variant. (Matt Howard/CBC)

The age-old Regina-Saskatoon rivalry is rearing its head again with a challenge involving the cities' mayors. 

Whichever city gets the most people vaccinated per capita by Canada Day wins. The losing mayor has to lip synch a song of the winning mayor's choice. 

In Regina, people can get free bus rides after their COVID-19 shot until June 30, if they present their first dose sticker to the driver.

Saskatoon Mayor Charlie Clark, for his part, is all in and confident the Bridge City will come out on top. 

"Absolutely I'd be willing to embarrass myself to get people vaccinated, but I won't have to if Regina wins," Regina Mayor Sandra Masters said with a laugh.

Masters added that based on pictures she's seeing of clinics and pictures from residents, the campaign is already working.

Here's where Regina will be hosting pop-up clinics this weekend, to try and get the advantage over Saskatoon:

  • Friday, June 18: Cornwall Centre in the former Gap retail space on the second floor, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. CST.
  • Friday, June 18: Regina is partnering with Regina Football to bring doses to flag football participants and their families. No time information is available.
  • Saturday, June 19: Regina Beach's Memorial Hall (101 Centre St.) from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. CST.
  • Saturday, June 19: Mosaic Stadium featuring Saskatchewan Roughrider alumni and Gainer the Gopher from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. CST Entrance through Gate 2
  • Saturday, June 19: Wascana Centre on the south side of the lake in front of the Legislative flower gardens from 5 to 7:30 p.m CST.