Skating on the Square celebrates its 10th year
Dedicated work of world-renowned skater Akop Manoukian lives on
JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — This town is fortunate to have a uniquely ‘community’ amenity like the downtown skating rink on the town square.
Certainly, if you live here or have visited during winter, you’ve noticed the charming little ice skating spot, lit majestically with, perhaps, a little Frank Sinatra streaming to set the scene. It is exactly what you might expect in a downtown winter destination resort town like Jackson.
But did you know, it is all made possible by the tireless dedication of Akop Manoukian and his Grand Teton Skating Association?
Manoukian just happens to be Jackson’s best kept skating secret. At the age of 15, the Armenian won the national skating championship in men’s singles, thrice. He later moved to the Kazakhstan where he won two more.
At 22, Manoukian turned pro and joined various touring companies, sharing a sheet of ice with the likes of Dorothy Hamill and Nancy Kerrigan. Manoukian is often credited with changing the world of skating entertainment with his aggressive acrobatic style. He was one of the first skaters ever to incorporate backflips into his routine.
Manoukian even served as a stunt double for Will Ferrell in the movie Blades of Glory.
Today, Manoukian spends his time teaching others how to skate and sharing his love of the sport. Many nights you can catch him on the town square, spinning and jumping at JH Winter Wonderland.
The public skating rink is now in its 10th year of operation. Bring the family. Skate rentals are available in the Stage Stop for $8 with local ID, $15 without. The rink is open Monday through Friday 4:30 – 9:00pm. Saturday and Sunday 12 – 9pm.
This week of skating fun is sponsored by Hotel Jackson and Native.
