On a brisk 5 degree celcius Tuesday evening, many graduate students found themselves congregating in the lobby of the Elliott Building; some with skates in hand, others just excited to get out and try something new. With so few pre-signed up for the first PAGSA Skating Event, it was a surprise seeing more than a dozen students ready to hop on the bus and head to the Oak Bay Recreational Center for an icy night out.
It was around 6:20PM, when we found outselves waiting patiently in line, wondering who was most likely to fall on the ice, and who was most confident on a pair of skates. Although there was no doubt on who was the best (our resident hockey player Emily was sure to make a show on the ice), there were many students who’s first time on skates, would be in just a couple of minutes. Having many international students come and join, allowed the native Canadians to show off what a real winter sport was like in Canada.
Just in time at 6:30PM, it was time to don the ice skates, and take the first steps onto the ice. For some a similiar feeling, for others, a daunting task. It was not hard to tell who was used to traversing the ice on two small, skinny blades, as the others were clutching the side-boards, making slow progress around the rink.
The rink quickly became busy, as the hour went on. For those who were comfortable, it meant dodging and weaving, for others, it still meant clutching to the side boards for balance. Around 7:00PM, it was already time for a break, where we found ourselves chatting about our Canadian culture, hockey teams, and whos feet hurt the most.
As the night came to a close, it may have been too much for some. Our resident instrumentalist Ted, had the distinct honor of being the person to be recorded falling on the ice. With Emily by his side, it was slightly graceful indeed!
All in all, a fantastic night to take the mind off of the grind of academia. We are sure to head back at some point in the future.