World's Largest Skating Rink Open For Business

[Sol Invictus]

By TERRI SAUNDERS, OTTAWA SUN
Last Updated: 15th January 2010, 6:57am

http://www.ottawasun.com/news/ottawa...-12453266.html

The green flag of the National Capital Commission was raised Thursday morning along the edge of the Rideau Canal, marking the official opening of a portion of the world’s largest skating rink.

“It is always a great pleasure to embark on a new skating season and welcome residents and visitors to this truly Canadian icon in the heart of the capital,” said Jean-Francois Trepanier, NCC vice-president of operations.

Over the past several days, NCC staffers have been busy flooding the surface of the canal to get it ready for skaters. By Wednesday evening, the ice along a 4.3-km stretch of the canal between National Arts Centre and Bank St. had reached the required thickness of 30 cm.

Frigid temperatures have also helped ensure the ice is strong enough to support skaters.

Bill McColm lives near the canal and eagerly awaits the opening of the skateway every winter. On Thursday, McColm and one of his neighbours walked down to the canal to check things out.

“We’re both down here inspecting the ice this morning,” he said. “The ice looks good. I’m really pleased. It’s a good start.”

[Aemma]

Thanks for this, Jase!

Here are some pics of this great treasure found in my town:

A picture facing North; the Parliament Buildings (and the National Arts Centre in the forefront) on the left and the Fairmont Chateau Laurier to the right:




Facing south:




A closer view of the Fairmont Chateau Laurier in the background:



No visit is complete without taking the time to enjoy a Beaver Tail and hot chocolate--YUM!:




The Rideau Canal during the summer: