The community is invited to the Trail Memorial Centre on Saturday to experience the re-opening of the Kids Rink first hand.
Hosting the unveiling of the marked improvements, starting at 10:30 a.m., are the city and Murphy Family Foundation.
The foundation, run by family members of Rich and Annie Murphy, owners of the Trail Smoke Eaters, contributed approximately $945,000 CDN to the job, which began in July and wrapped up in late fall.
The overhaul includes a new concrete floor, new boards, and improvements to the viewing area adjacent to the ice surface. The upgrades also allow for year-round ice and programming in the Kids Rink.
The foundation also contributed another $227,460 CDN to support free-of-charge programs in the Trail Memorial Centre, such as public skating and sensory friendly skating.
“When we look at the improved Kids Rink, we can now begin to implement the amazing opportunities the facility has to offer the region,” said Madelyn Murphy-Homer, Murphy Family Foundation director.
“We are delighted with the results of this project and cannot wait to see how the community embraces the possibilities these upgrades afford us all year long.”
In a fitting twist, reopening day aligns with the official opening of the Kids Rink on Dec. 30, 1953.
The city says it will replicate the original opening program with a performance by the Trail Pipe Band and speeches from the city, Murphy Family Foundation, and Greater Trail Minor Hockey Association.
Following the brief formal program will be a free skate featuring members of the Trail Smoke Eaters, the Smokies’ mascot Stax, and free hot chocolate.
Skate rentals will be available.
“We are so incredibly grateful for the Murphy Family Foundation’s ongoing support and dedication to our youth, community, and recreational facilities,” said Mayor Colleen Jones. “We are thrilled to mark the re-opening of the Kids Rink on this momentous and appropriate day.”
The Kids Rink was built 70 years ago, which was four years after the construction of the Cominco Arena.
The rink has a 70’ x 147’ ice surface, a viewing area from the McIntyre Room, and a small ice-side viewing area.
The ice is used for skating, hockey, private rentals and is equipped with laser light technology and a sound system.
Amenities in the Trail Memorial Centre remain pivotal recreational venues for the entire region.
“We are thankful the Murphy Family Foundation shares our vision of a vibrant and healthy community,” Jones added.
“We look forward to seeing our community make use of the new Kids Rink facility by offering more free family-friendly, accessible ice-skating programs.”
Murphy Family Foundation
The Murphy Family Foundation is a Minnesota based foundation focused on supporting organizations dedicated to youth development. With specific focuses on funding education, the arts, entrepreneurship, and sports programming for youth, the foundation is committed to the belief that every young person in every community has the right to thrive.
