Pond Skating

Tools

By Nicole Grigg

Story Published: Feb 23, 2010 at 8:05 PM MST

Story Updated: Feb 24, 2010 at 11:28 AM MST

RED LODGE - Most athletes train on indoor rinks, but many people prefer a more natural approach. Red Lodge has an outdoor skating rink that is all the rage.

Gregg Kolpin has been skating for 47 years. He drives from Billings to Red Lodge 3 or 4 times a week for an experience he calls the "real deal.” He is talking about outdoor skating.

“If you have good balance, then you're confident and its just a matter of learning how to push and slide. If you watch the speed skaters on TV that’s what it's all about. Pushing and sliding,” said Kolpin.

Kolpin isn't alone in his love of open air skating. Al Bloomer, with the USA Hockey Program, said he also enjoys having the rink in Red Lodge.

“Most of us involved in this sport that grew up specifically in the northern climates with outdoor hockey and pond hockey. Skating outdoors is just the purest part of the game,” said Bloomer.

Nine-year-old Katie Jacobsen also admires the aerial skills of the Olympic skaters. Katie taught herself the skills she knows. Spinning and balancing on one leg isn't as easy as it looks.

No matter what your skill level, age or sport is, there's room for everyone on the outdoor rink in Red Lodge. Heavy snow fall doesn't stop these athletes because it just adds to the charm. Skating outdoors is how many Olympians began.

Red Lodge ice offers figure skating for kids and adults at their outdoor rink.

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