Fans Thrilled As Penguins Cruise Through Downtown Pittsburgh
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- More than 400,000 fans packed streets and parking garages, shooting ticker tape as the Pittsburgh Penguins passed by.
"Whenever I saw the Stanley Cup, I was so happy," one fan said.
"I couldn't come in 2009. This year, I couldn't miss it. Didn't miss a game. I couldn't miss the parade," said fan Chris Gennaro.
Some fans started showing up a full 12 hours before the parade. By the time it started, there was no question that the pens fans were going to set their own record -- the most ever at a victory parade in Pittsburgh.
"You see how many people are out here. How many people care about this team. It's special to be able to win for them," said defenseman Brian Dumoulin.
Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter
Heather: what do you think of all the fans, the energy today?
Matt Murray: I don't even know how to explain it. There's so many people here. I can't even believe it. There's ten people deep for miles, like, this is crazy.
For many it was about creating memories-- being part of something historic.
"It's awesome. We just said, it's a once in a lifetime experience for everybody, for all these kids. So many cities don't get to experience this. This is truly so much fun," said fan Stacey Lancia.
"It was awesome. Once in a lifetime thing. I'm so glad we came down," said fan Chad Kanz.
For others, it was a chance, if only for a second, to lock eyes with the favorite players.
Heather: I see you've found the love of your life! Did he see you?
Maddie Berkley: He saw me!
Heather: Was that the highlight of today?
Maddie Berkley: Yeah!
Unfortunately, the heat was too much for some. 15 people were taken to the hospital for heat-related illness and another 65 were treated by medics.
