My husband has fond memories of Penrith Ice Palace from his high school days. Afternoons and weekends with close friends were often spent skating away to colored lights and music.
Due to extensive allergies, my choices of recreational activities have been severely limited. I'd since been more involved with indoor sports/activities such as squash, mini golf, and bowling. However, I'd never given ice-skating a thought...
Hearing that I'd never skated with anything other than indoor quads, my husband insisted on taking me to my very first ice-rink. With my first Australian summer in full-swing, it would be a refreshing change from trying to plan activities around the blistering heat.
As I had hoped, immediately upon entering the building, we were greeted by a glorious winter chill that never seemed to die down. I was right to bring warm gloves, a knitted beanie, and a thick hoodie despite the 30°C+ weather going on outside.
Everyone on the ice was comfortable at their own respective paces and there were skaters of all different ages and experience-levels. For those of us who aren't as confident in our abilities (yet!), this was extremely comforting.
The rink was of decent size (not that I have much to compare it with), the ice itself was freshly smoothed, and in all honesty, not that painful to fall on! My only disappointment had been the very edges of a quarter of the rink. The wooden barriers, although charming and sturdy, seemed highly worn and prone to splinters. Unless you're wearing gloves, I feel that it could be a hazard to those who aren't quite ready to let go of the walls for balance.
Aside from that, I have no real complaints. As a first time ice-skater, this location granted me a solid first experience and impression of the sport. We will absolutely be returning again in the future. read more
