The new skating rink is located in the Eiling Kramer Campground in Battleford. (Kenneth Cheung/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Kenneth Cheung

NEW SKATING LOOP

From backyard rink to community skating loop: A father’s vision comes to life

Feb 28, 2025 | 2:35 PM

For Emily Simon, some of her core childhood memories are tied to the small skating rink her father, Curtis, built in their backyard. It was there she’d put on her figure-skating dress, test out her spins, and share laughter with loved ones.

“I remember putting on one of my skating dresses and testing out how my dress looked when I spun,” she said.

Even in the dark, the rink offered a special kind of magic.

“When it was dark out, and you’re still able to go on your little backyard rink… it was always like a key component and like a cool aspect to having your birthday, too.”

Years later, Curtis, a local firefighter himself, is sharing that same joy with the whole community. Inspired by a trip to Montreal where he saw a public skating path, he decided to bring something similar to Battleford.

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“He was very interested in it,” Emily said. “And then he watched different inspirational videos on Facebook and TikTok, and it kind of sparked the drive of something that he wanted to bring.”

With the help of the Battleford Fire Department, the Town of Battleford and community members, Curtis built a skating loop at the Eiling Kramer Campground, turning a stretch of roadway into an ice-covered trail.

“It’s great to see my dad have this community spirit and that other people can have similar memories and create new memories on this little skating loop that he’s developed,” Emily said.

For her, it’s also a full-circle moment — watching others experience the same winter magic she did as a child.

“I just want everyone to get outside and enjoy,” she said. “I know often it’s a really cold and long winter, but having a little bit of physical activity is always great… just enjoy with your families and friends. I think that’s what it’s built for.”

Battleford fire chief Larry Gabruch, who helped with the project, said the location was perfect.

“The area is so conducive for it — it’s lit at night, it’s got a cozy atmosphere to it, and it allows our residents a skating loop that is quite a bit in the distance,” he said.

The free outdoor rink has been a success, offering families a fresh spot in town to enjoy the winter. Open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Gabruch believes it’s quickly becoming a community favourite.

The map. (photo/Town of Battleford)

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Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com