The Ice That Binds

laying down plastic sheets as a liner prior to flooding. Not windy day work. Photo Credit David McClyment

The natural ice skating rinks that dot the city every winter are nothing short of miraculous. Anyone who skates, volunteers to build, or just takes pictures of a natural ice skating rink, is impacted by them in a profound and lasting way. Both the communities of Vine Park on Vine Avenue and Runnymede Park on Ryding Avenue have regrouped once more this winter and are actively engaged in getting the ice ready while we enjoy below zero temperatures.

David McClyment a local artist, former teacher, long-time skating and ice enthusiast enjoyed natural ice skating rinks as early as the 1950’s during his childhood in Toronto. He is the main resident volunteer responsible for the Runnymede Park rink. While it is McClyment, who takes on the responsibility of submitting the permit and liaising with the city he believes the rink has been “a true galvanizing focus for the neighbourhood!” He became involved in the Runnymede rink in 2020 during the Covid 19 lockdowns and has continued to take a leadership role in the effort. “A lot of people pitch in to create the rink: everything from applying for the permit, laying in the boards, and laying down the plastic sheet base. The City kindly gives us permission, and a fire hose with a source of water. But the rest is up to the community.”

Johnny, who helps with the rink on Ryding Avenue, says ice needs to freeze in layers and with the warmer temperatures this past weekend the ice was too soft to skate on. The softness creates unsafe skating conditions. Based on the three consecutive below zero days in a row we’re expecting this week, the ice could be ready before the weekend. From playing competitive hockey in his youth to coaching a competitive Etobicoke girls hockey league where his daughter plays, Johnny says the ice, and skating, has held a special place in his life.

The Ryding Rockets as anyone who helps with the rink becomes known, have now built the rink four times out of the last five winters. Unfortunately last winter was too warm to even try. So when you’re complaining about the cold remember the Ryding Rockets and as McClyment says “this weather with this temperature is PERFECT ice making conditions. Bring it on, and keep it coming”

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