The RBC Cup host committee and the City of Lloydminster have partnered to provide a temporary skating surface outside the front doors of Lloydminster City Hall.

Lloydminster’s love of hockey is reaching a fever pitch as the city prepares to host the RBC Cup in May 2016 and that passion is the inspiration behind the RBC Cup Leisure Ice, located at the corner of 4420 50 Avenue in Lloydminster.

“The RBC Cup Leisure Ice provides Lloydminster residents with an opportunity to get out for a skate, revel in the winter season and share in the energy around the RBC Cup experience,” said Jill Morrison, marketing co-chair for the RBC Cup committee. “By partnering with the City of Lloydminster, we were able to create a fantastic atmosphere for outdoor fun in a highly visible, easily accessible location. We thank the City of Lloydminster for providing the resources and the space for this exciting community engagement initiative.”

The RBC Cup Leisure Ice opened to the public on Dec. 18 and will be maintained by the City of Lloydminster through the winter.

Mayor Rob Saunders said the City is proud to partner on a project that encourages physical activity and community togetherness.

“With just a few months to go until the RBC Cup tournament, you can sense a growing excitement in our city,” said Saunders. “We are pleased to partner with the local RBC Cup committee on the RBC Cup Leisure Ice, which creates a family-friendly recreational experience that may be enjoyed by everyone.”

The RBC Cup Leisure Ice is for skating only. No pucks or hockey sticks are permitted. Helmets are strongly recommended for skaters of all ages.

Visitors are asked not to use the City Hall parking lot between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday to Friday. The parking lot may be used during evenings and weekends. Street parking is available in the vicinity of City Hall.

Canada’s National Junior A Championship will be held at the Centennial Civic Centre from May 14-22, 2016, and will feature five of Canada’s top Junior A hockey teams, including the host Lloydminster Bobcats of the Alberta Junior Hockey League.