Overview
- The 400‑metre track opened at 08:15 Saturday, drawing about 50 to 60 skaters by 9 a.m., many of them parents with children.
- Ice master Hendrik van Prooije measured roughly 5 millimetres of ice despite air temperatures just above 0°C.
- Volunteers worked overnight in two‑person teams on three‑hour rotations to spray water and build the surface.
- A white top layer applied in late September reduced solar warming and allowed the rink to cool and freeze sooner.
- Organisers say Winterswijk may be the first natural‑ice venue to open this season, and they warn usability depends on wind and sun; indoor and covered rinks in cities like Rotterdam, Rozenburg, Gorinchem, Groot‑Ammers and Dordrecht offer steadier options.