Depending on the weather, Sundre and surrounding area residents will soon have the opportunity to enjoy free of charge a traditional Canadian winter custom with friends and family.
A new outdoor rink located immediately next to the Sundre Skatepark along Second Avenue Northwest just past the Aquaplex and the Sundre Curling Rink parking lot was expected to be completed early this month, provided conditions were cold enough to flood the surface.
In partnership with local volunteers and businesses, the municipality agreed to proceed with making accommodations to make the project possible.
"I'm quite excited actually," said Ian James, Sundre's community services manager, during a recent interview with the Round Up. He expressed gratitude to the volunteers who not only pushed the issue forward but also offered their time and energy.
"I'm a firm believer that outdoor rinks are part of the Canadian culture. The fact we have so many residents expressing interest, it's our responsibility as a town to make it available," said James.
To cater to users of all ages and interests, there will be a schedule breaking down times for shinny so people can enjoy some casual sticks and pucks, as well as public skating sessions so parents, grandparents and guardians can bring out the little ones without having to worry about flying pucks or swinging hockey sticks.
Courtesy of contributions from Fortis and Mountain View Electric, the rink will even be lit up at night, allowing for evening skate sessions.
The rules are not particularly overly restrictive and generally revolve around common courtesy and decency, although skaters will be expected to inspect the ice surface to ensure it is safe before use. Additionally, people are encouraged to consider donning protective equipment such as helmets, alcohol will not be permitted on the site, and children under the age of 12 will have to be supervised by an adult, said James.
Otherwise, everyone is welcome to come out and strap on a pair of skates and take part in a winter pastime that will always be a traditional part of Canadian culture. If responses generated by the Round Up's story on social media are any indication, there are plenty of people who are keen to hit the ice as soon as possible.
"Outdoor rinks are part of Canadian history ó every kid should be able to enjoy them," posted Darryl Murphy in one of numerous positive comments about the project.
So we hope everyone who is interested gets a chance to enjoy the new outdoor rink, which the municipality should be commended for making available to the public free of charge.
Like Shari Leedahl posted on social media, "Outdoor rinks are essential...it's winter, go outside and play!
ó Simon Ducatel is the Round Up's editor
