THE SKATING RINK.

Oamaru Mail, Volume I, Issue 120, 8 September 1876, Page 2

THE SKATING RINK.

A large number of persons were present last night at the Volunteer Hall, on the occasion of the opening of the Skating Rink. At one time there could not have been less than 150 persons, a large proportion of whom hacl donned the skates. To our mind the spectators had the best of the amusement, for the frequency and gravity of the "spills" were anything at all but acceptable to the parties more immediately concerned. To the onlookers, however, matters wore a very different aspect, as it was a source of never-end'ng merriment to watch the contortions and vain efforts made by some to retain their footing. One gentleman in particular, who, when mounted on the rollers, was several inches beyond six feet, was particularly unhappy when on his legs, and ungraceful in his prostrations, which were rather frequent. Let him fling his anns about never so wildly as a balancing power, or sway his body to the letter S, he was sure to come to grief. When it is remembered that he had a long way to fall, and that it generally happened that as his heels went up his head went down, the shocks racaivetl were anything but child's play. However, the spectators ssemed rather to enjoy his misfortunes, and he himself took a philosophical view of the matter, for he had 110 sooner recovered the effects of one tumble than he was ready for another. It is evidently an accomplishment that is easily mastered, for during the short time we were present we could see a marked improvement in many who could scare sly stand alone when first putting on tie skates.' Like every other amusement, there are little drawbacks to the pleasure of a beginner. In billiards it is in the privilege of paying for the game, and in skating it is a rather too freqnent salutation of mother-earth. Barring the spills, the recreation is a very invigorating one, an:! we have little doubt that beside, giving a healthy enjoyment to young Oamaru, the speculation will prove most payable.