.jpg?20260305')
BIG-HEARTED ice skaters will take to the rink tomorrow for the 10th anniversary of an annual event aimed at raising funds in support of the Mission to Seafarers.
The Annual Charity Christmas Ice-Skating gathering will be held at the Funland Ice Rink near the Al Fateh Highway between 2pm and 4pm.
Last year, more than 100 people attended the event and raised around BD400 for the charity’s seasonal initiatives, including providing gift packages for Christmas for seafarers who spend the holidays far away from their families.
Event organiser Sara Axtell expressed her pride and delight at how much the event had developed over the past decade. “We’re delighted to have grown this fundraiser into an event that people really look forward to at this time of year,” Ms Axtell told the GDN.
“I’m often asked as early as November ‘is the skating on this year?’
“It’s become a firm favourite on a lot of festive calendars for families and a wonderful opportunity for friends to get together and have fun whilst raising money for a great cause.
“Everyone is welcome! We made the event on a Saturday afternoon this year so that hopefully the whole family can come and enjoy the event.
“Wrap up warm, get your Christmas hats and jumpers on, bring your own hot drink and snacks, and come for some festive fun.”
The Mission to Seafarers is a global charity that provides practical, emotional and spiritual support to the 1.5 million seafarers who work tirelessly to transport goods across the world, with operations in more than 200 ports across 50 countries.
In Bahrain, the organisation has been helping seafarers for 27 years, helping them stay connected with their families as well as providing mental health counselling, if needed.
Mission to Seafarers Bahrain chaplain Father Franklin Isaac stated that proceeds from the event will go towards showing gratitude to seafarers and to encourage them as they spend these special occasions far away from their homes and families.
“This programme stands as a symbol of warmth in the midst of cold ice – a reminder that even far from home, seafarers are seen, valued and loved,” said Father Isaac. “This 10th anniversary celebration promises to be a memorable gathering, filled with joy, fellowship and a shared sense of purpose.
“A large number of participants are expected to join this special occasion, celebrating not only the fun of ice skating but also the enduring mission of care and compassion for seafarers.
“From welcoming seafarers at the port, providing a safe and joyful space at the Seafarers’ Centre, to offering indoor games, free Wi-Fi, refreshments and companionship, we would like to ensure that seafarers experience rest and joy amid demanding and often lonely voyages.”
* Those wishing to attend and support the cause can join the fundraisers tomorrow. The cost, including skate hire, is BD5 per person or BD20 per family, payable at the door.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
&uuid=(email))