by Tim Wetzel
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Ed Causyn is a serious Predators fan. Not just because he watches Preds games religiously, but because he drove 731 miles to watch the team play in person.
Causyn lives in Buffalo, New York, but he has been a devoted Nashville fan for years. The moment the team won Game 5, he bought tickets online and jumped in his car and headed south.
"I love the Preds," said Causyn. "It took us 12.5 hours to get down here."
Causyn and his family were some of the first people to arrive at Bridgestone Arena before Monday's game. After driving all night, they arrived just as the sun was starting to rise. Causyn caught the eye of a crew from NewsChannel 5. They interviewed him live on NewsChannel 5 This Morning.
"I wouldn't miss this for nothing," said the fabric plant worker. "You can't even describe it. I can't wait for the game."
Causyn's story caught the attention of the Predators officials. They decided to give him a title, honorary "Mayor of Smashville" for the night. Causyn was recognized in between periods and given the opportunity to sound the siren inside his beloved Bridgestone Arena.
The Nashville Convention and Visitor's Bureau also presented him with a gift bag full of souvenirs to take back to New York.
While the Predators ended up losing 2-1 to the Vancouver Canucks, Causyn walked away a big winner.
"I'm living the dream right now," said Causyn. "I'd do it again."
E-mail: twetzel@newschannel5.com
