Walby apologizes for ‘inappropriate language’ during speech at Bombers’ gala dinner

Legendary Winnipeg Blue Bombers offensive lineman Chris Walby apologized Friday on Twitter for his expletive-laden speech at the Winnipeg Blue Bombers Legacy Gala Dinner on Wednesday night.

The 59-year-old was on hand to introduce fellow offensive lineman Bob Molle, who was one of three inductees headed into the club’s hall of fame on the night.

Walby, a member of TSN 1290’s Blue Bombers Game Day show, stretched well past his allotted two minutes for his speech in front of an all-ages crowd and dropped numerous F-bombs.

“Apologies to all of the Great Fans and Supporters of the Blue Bomber HOF Dinner attendees for my inappropriate language during my intro of a great friend and teammate (Bob Molle),” the Winnipeg native wrote on his Twitter on Friday morning. “We were not back in the locker room and some of my language was inappropriate for this event. Apologies.”

The Bombers, who are in Calgary gearing up to face the Stampeders on Saturday afternoon, told the Free Press on Friday that they have accepted Walby’s apology.

“We were extremely disappointed by the inappropriate comments delivered by Chris at the Legacy Dinner which honours former players and builders. We accept his apology, which we believe was sincerely meant and extended to all those who attended,” a spokesperson for the club said.

Walby, arguably the greatest lineman to every play the Canadian game, was originally drafted by the Montreal Alouettes in the first round, fourth overall in 1981. During the his rookie season, he was traded to his hometown Blue Bombers where he’d go on to spend 16 years before retiring following the 1996 season.

During his tenure with the Bombers, the Dickinson State alum won three Grey Cups (1984, 1988 and 1990) and was named the league’s most outstanding offensive lineman in 1987 and then again in 1993. Walby was also named a CFL all-star on nine occasions.