An inclusive ice skating rink has been inaugurated in Bardolino, an important initiative that allows individuals with mobility disabilities to experience the joy of skating. Located in the park of Villa Carrara Bottagisio, this new attraction is accessible to wheelchair users as well.
Coinciding with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, celebrated on December 3rd, the rink stands out as one of the few in Italy to offer such opportunities. Developed in collaboration with Polar Park in Rome and the project “Anybody can skate,” the facility allows free access for users through an innovative system.
Accessibility and Operation of the Rink
The rink features a steel platform mounted on blades, which can secure the user’s wheelchair. This device enables safe gliding on the ice, while an accompanying person or guardian can push the individual during the activity. The rink is available from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM until Epiphany, but it is necessary to make a reservation by sending a WhatsApp message to 345.8214264 at least one day in advance to avoid waiting times.
The initiative is open to all individuals with mobility disabilities, with no restrictions regarding residence or age of the users. It is recommended to dress appropriately to cope with the cold.
Presentation of the Initiative
The mayor of Bardolino, Daniele Bertasi, officially presented this initiative alongside Deputy Mayor Giuditta Tabarelli and Education Councillor Mirco Fraccarolli. Sports Councillor Marco Bertoldi also participated in the inauguration ceremony. During the event, some students from the local primary school and volunteers from the Red Cross had the opportunity to try out the new facility along with five users from the “Filippo Bardellini” day center in Ponton di Sant’Ambrogio.
Bertasi stated: “We are proud that Bardolino is leading the way with this initiative of significant social value: thanks to this device adopted by the rink, individuals with mobility disabilities can enjoy a moment of great freedom and joy, as well as interact with the community; we believe this is an enrichment for everyone.”
This new rink thus represents not only a recreational opportunity but also a fundamental tool for promoting the social inclusion of individuals with disabilities within the local community.
Italian Version
