Ice Cross Saskatoon Debuts with Thrills and Potential for Growth

The first-ever indoor Ice Cross event at Merlis Belsher Place, Saskatoon, wasn’t just a night of high-speed thrills; it was a testament to the sport’s potential and a showcase of its growing pains. With an electrifying mix of professional athletes, aspiring amateurs, and excited young participants, the event offered something for everyone, leaving a lasting impression on attendees while highlighting areas for improvement.

Highlights of the Event

The evening was brimming with unforgettable moments. Tim Cimmer, the visionary behind indoor Ice Cross, wowed the crowd by racing alongside professionals half his age, showing that Ice Cross is a sport for everyone. Though he suffered a fall and blew a tire, Cimmer secured third place, embodying the resilience and determination that defines the sport.

Children took to the track with enthusiasm, proving that Ice Cross has the power to engage all generations. Parents shared their delight, with one parent saying, “My kids had an absolute blast! They haven’t stopped talking about wanting to join the next one.”

The coexistence of professionals and amateurs on the same track also impressed attendees, with many applauding the inclusivity of the sport. A participant remarked, “It’s amazing to see pros mentoring and cheering for amateurs—it’s a real community out there.”

The Merlis Belsher Arena Ice Cross obstacle course

Constructive Feedback: Room to Improve

While the event was a resounding success, it wasn’t without its challenges. Some attendees noted the long pauses between races as a downside. One fan shared, “The breaks were frustrating because we wanted constant action.”

Others, however, saw the gaps as necessary and even beneficial. Another attendee commented, “The pauses gave us time to catch our breath, grab snacks, and recharge our energy. By the time the next race started, the crowd was ready to cheer even louder.”

Such mixed feedback reflects the reality of Ice Cross’s early stage of development. Both Cimmer and the Ice Sport team acknowledge these growing pains. Cimmer explained, “We’re still refining the format. Our goal is to find the perfect balance between maintaining the excitement and giving everyone time to enjoy the full experience.”

Some feedback given by fans after the event

A Sport in the Making

Despite minor hiccups, the event demonstrated the vast potential of Ice Cross. As the sport matures, organizers are exploring innovative ways to streamline event operations and ensure a seamless experience for both athletes and fans. Cimmer and his team are committed to evolving the sport, with plans to incorporate more dynamic elements and faster pacing for future events.

With the backing of sponsors like Potent Hockey, Synthetic Ice, and interest from major players like Prime Sports and Disney Sports, the path forward looks promising. The event’s success has already sparked discussions about a World Indoor Ice Cross Tour, positioning the sport as a contender on the global stage.

The Road Ahead

As the crowd filed out of Merlis Belsher Place, one thing was clear: this was just the beginning. Ice Cross, with its thrilling races, community spirit, and growing fan base, has the potential to become a mainstay in extreme sports.

Tim Cimmer summed it up best: “This sport is young, but it’s full of promise. We’re learning, we’re growing, and we’re just getting started. The future of Ice Cross is brighter than ever.”

Stay tuned for updates on the World Indoor Ice Cross Tour and upcoming events at Worldicecross.com.