The Aurora Ice Association has purchased the outdoor rink that was used for the Winter Classic event held at Ralph Wilson Stadium on January 1st, 2008 between the Buffalo Sabres and the Pittsburgh Penguins. Installation on our Riley Street property will begin this month, and we expect to be open by November first and remain open for the winter season. This NHL-size rink will be used until the indoor twin rink project is approved, funded and construction begins. Use of this "seasonal" rink approach is possible on the site because everything needed, including lighting, is temporary and portable. The Winter Classic rink in Ralph Wilson Stadium went up and down in a matter of days, and many communities across the country are taking advantage of this approach for winter skating.
Use of the open air rink will be somewhat weather dependent, but based on the feelings of many skaters, it will be like "old tyme winter skating'" and not deter many skaters. Hours will be limited, but will include open skating, skate and shoot sessions, figure skating and hockey practices for local teams including the East Aurora High School Varsity and JV hockey teams. Local skaters, including adult old-timer hockey and WNY speed skaters are anxious to book ice time, and we will be taking reservations starting in October. The rink will also be available for rental for private skating parties and other community ice events.
