'Gloves are off' in Winnipeg-Ottawa battle for longest skating rink

Winnipeg is stepping up the competition in its good-natured battle with Ottawa over which city has the longest outdoor skating rink in the world.

Friday night, officials with The Forks in Winnipeg will open the first leg of its annual river trail, linking the national historic site with Osborne Street along the Assiniboine River.

Organizers hope to extend the trail from Voyageur Park in the east to Omand's Creek in the west this year — more than eight kilometres in total along the Red and Assiniboine rivers.

"We're going to take a really good shot at being the longest in the world," said Paul Jordan, spokesman for The Forks.

"Because of the early freeze-up, we're looking pretty good. We're hoping in the next week or two, we're opening up to 8½ kilometres."

Ottawa's skating trail along the Rideau Canal, at about 7½ kilometres, is registered as the world's largest naturally frozen ice surface by Guinness World Records.

But warm winter weather in the nation's capital has kept that trail closed this year.

"Last year, when we were 4½ km, Ottawa couldn't get their full trail in, and we were by default the longest trail in the world," Jordan said.

"In a very playful way, the gloves are off," he added. "We're hoping in two weeks, we cut the ribbon and it's the biggest."

There are two paths on the river: an ice path, which is cleared and groomed for skating and a footpath. The footpath is also open to skiers, snowshoers and cyclists. Leashed dogs are allowed.

Special programming, such as sleigh rides, face painting and winter games, is offered on weekends. Most programming is free of charge.

The river trail connects with 1.2 kilometres of skating trails and footpaths "on shore" at The Forks; many more indoor and outdoor activities are also available around the Forks historical site.

Skate rentals are available at The Mini Donuts Factory in The Forks Market. Rates are $2 for children and seniors and $3.50 for adults.