The University News

Issue date: 11/9/09 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Casey Osburn Crown Center Ice Terrace is open until March 2010.

It's uncommon for something to remain popular for more than a decade. It's even more rare when it prevails for more than three.

The Crown Center Ice Terrace opened Nov. 6 for its 37th season.

The attendees ranged from toddlers to seniors and every age in between. There were even some UMKC students, including Jacob Brewer.

For Brewer, skating at Crown Center is nothing new.

"I have been six or seven times, and I will go back again," Brewer said. "Being a former hockey player, I enjoy skating."

The Ice Terrace is unique because it's one of the few public outdoor skating rinks in Kansas City. This is one of the main reasons people enjoy it so much.

There are other (indoor) ice skating rinks in the area, but the Ice Terrace allows skaters to get an actual taste of winter by being outside.

And even though the weather was in the 60s, skaters still enjoyed the atmosphere.

"I like that it's outdoors," Brewer said. "It gives you more of a feel of the holidays."

Another benefit of the Ice Terrace is it provides entertainment suitable for all ages.

At just $6 per person (free for adults over 60 and children 4 and under), the Ice Terrace is a fun, alternative idea for dates, family outings or other get-togethers.

"It's a great place for dates because you're still able to have a conversation without the awkwardness of going to the movies," Brewer said. "It's also a great family activity because it's affordable."

For those who missed opening day, don't worry. The Ice Terrace is open through March 2010.

And regardless of the weather, the outdoor skating will be there to enjoy.

"Overall, it doesn't make a difference that it's outdoors," Brewer said. "Skating is skating."

hsaskin@unews.com

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