Ice skating season in Shimla kicks off today

The ice skating season at the historic rink in Shimla is set to commence from December 4, bringing a cheer to skating enthusiasts and tourists visiting the state capital during the winter season.

The decision was taken after a successful trial was conducted today. Around 10 skaters took part in the trial session, which was conducted by the Shimla Ice Skating Club to check whether the quality of ice was good enough for regular skating sessions. Following the successful trials, the club decided to conduct ice skating sessions from tomorrow.

Rajat Malhotra, general secretary of the club, said skating will be held only during morning session initially. However, as the temperature dips and the quality if ice improves, it will be started in the evening as well.

“We are also planning a carnival in the last week of December if the weather permits,” he added.

“Last year, limited number of ice skating sessions were held due to unsuitable weather conditions. However, this year we are hopeful to conduct more sessions during the winter season. As people, especially children in Shimla don’t have much to do during the winter, ice skating proves to be a good outdoor activity for them,” Malhotra said.

Built during the British times in 1920 by Irish military officer Blessington, the skating rink covers an area roughly the size of five tennis courts. Though it was initially a tennis court, Blessington got an idea to convert it into an ice skating rink when he sprinkled water on the court’s surface and it froze to water instantly in cold weather. This sparked an idea to convert the area into a ice skating rink, which over the years has become one of the favourite sports in winter for locals as well as tourists.