Thanks everyone. Mission accomplished!

I didn't ask for SDC at YVR, as the segment out of YOW was showing a 30-min delay even before we left YVR (but really: I forgot to ask, distracted by the check-in agent's laser sharp focus on our checked bags): At YVR, we checked our 4 pieces (per the PY entitlement), PLUS the free "check your carry-on" piece that we were offered at OLCI. In my mind, it just meant we were tendering 5 pieces of checked baggage...but this agent was tremendously vigilant, even stepping across the scale to visually inspect the pieces, almost as if to ensure one of the 5 pieces was carry-on-sized; he also mentioned that he had a "small case" tag for that carry-on-going-as-checked piece.

At YOW, we parked at Gate 24(-ish) and it was a quick walk to the concourse exit and escalator down to Baggage Claim where our friends were waiting. (Passed by Premier Doug Ford and his entourage...but I'm sure politicians "hanging out" is a regular occurrence at this particular airport.)

The priority tags worked their magic and the short-checked bag was out quickly and its contents adjusted as necessary. The nearest elevator conveniently let us out with the Priority Check-in desks closest to us. This agent seemed surprised at what she saw on the screen (I'm guessing due to me tendering "another" piece when her screen showed that we were already over the usual-entitlement...but I explained the events of the day and the bagged was tagged in short-order.

Yes, the Verified Traveler lane was closed when we sought return airside, but we did get "Verified Traveler Front-of-the-Line".

Unfortunately, the merge was still about 10-15 passengers before the true front-of-the-line (still skipped ahead of 20-30 others), plus a sign to indicate there were Screeners-in-Training...meaning both lines were hectic. This unanticipated delay inspired a jog out of security to Gate 17. They were announcing "Boarding All Zones" at this point...but Zone 5 still had a healthy line...plus a line-up in the jetway. And, of course, after we were seated and settled, the captain notified us it would be another 20-minute delay due to "paperwork".

My wife and I had a bet if all 5 pieces would arrive successfully and quickly ("Priority Roulette"). Not only were all 5 among the first 6 pieces to the carousel at YYZ, the piece we rechecked at YOW was in the mix (we figured it would be separated from its siblings)

Like billdokes says, YOW is a great, compact airport. Would easily consider connecting thru there again...but the Mrs. will insist we leave MORE time for security, even with Nexus.

Thanks FT!