Had a phone chat with Kris Barclay today. He has an important event coming up September 19th that we talk about in this call.
GOCCM: Kris, the first time I saw you, you were soaring onto the Havelock Jamboree field with the Sky Hawks last year. It was quite the way for a host to enter a venue. What was that experience like for you?
KB: It was one of the most unique experiences you could ask for, especially for an artist. I have hosted several times but when approached by the organizers to enter with the Sky Hawks I said yes, absolutely.
I was dropped off at the Trenton Air Force Base. After a few minute course in safety we were off to the plane. It was amazing that I was stepping in to this plane that soldiers had stepped in to on their way to do their job: and, others who may not have returned home.
As I jumped from the plane it was announced that the MC had arrived. My mic was waiting on the ground ready for me to land and say, “What’s up, Havelock?”
GOCCM: Your new single, “360,” is sure to uplift spirits this year. Would you tell us about it?
KB: We were writing “360” as a ballad when one of the producers said how about we try this with banjo and percussion added? As we went on with this idea we threw out fun lyrics and had a great time writing this song. We thought the audience would have as much fun listening as we did writing “360.”
GOCCM: How does hockey fit into your life?
KB: Hockey was the biggest part of my life until age 20. I played local Junior hockey, was traded to the Soo, and played for York University. I lost a bet and switched to music. Today I teach hockey to kids from those first on skates and learning to hold a stick, to those who are fine tuning their skills. We work with these top tier male and female players with the aim to have fun, stay in shape and hone skills to get an education whether in university or the OHL program.
GOCCM: We are interested in learning about your work with Wounded Warriors.
KB: My work with Wounded Warriors started that day in Havelock at their booth. I told the Warriors about my Grandpa Barclay, who I was very close to, and who, as a career soldier, was proud of having served Canada. After talking with them I wanted to find a way to give back to the military for all these soldiers have done for us.
GOCCM: The charity event for Wounded Warriors is coming up in September.
KB: Wounded Warriors use money raised (82% of every dollar) to pay for PTSD therapy for the soldiers, couples and family therapy to help the loved ones understand, cope with and help their partner or parent, equine therapy, and dog therapy. One dog costs $1S,000 to raise and train to be a therapy dog.
The soldiers and their families are so deserving, and that is why I am trying to help.
While promoting Wounded Warriors and keeping in touch with my friends in the military, I heard about the Ruck Sack march . Soldiers carry 50 lbs in their ruck sacks (backpacks) as part of their basic training. My friends encouraged me to try it.
This year on September 13th, I am involved in the Ruck Sack March being held at Whitby’s Cullen Central Park. You can sign up to do the 10km walk, but your backpack does not have to have 50 lbs in it.
If you cannot take part you can donate through my Facebook page, Kris Barclay’s Rucksack March for Remembrance. Donations over $20 will be receipted.
GOCCM: I am heading over their right now to donate.
Where can your followers find you on your socials?
KB: I try my best to reply to messages and encourage people to make contact with me
*top banner photo from http://www.krisbarclay.com/
