~ Transformation ~

Well, the count down has begun.  Several weeks ago I had mentioned the 'Ice Bowl'.  Hmmmm the NHL is actually calling it the 'Winter Classic.'  Remember?  The Buffalo Sabres and the Pittsburgh Penguins will be playing outside on News Year Day.  It's not the first time it's happened, but it's the first time in the new NHL that it will be taking placing in the good 'ole USA. 

 

Sunday afternoon, immediately following the Buffalo Bills game, the transformation started.  In the midst of pounding rain/snow and high wind gusts the workers started taking down the goal posts and preparing the football field to become an ice rink.  With such limited time they are working 12 hour shifts around the clock.  That is, except for Christmas day.  Good thing too, remember the snow?  It was hard enough laying the tarp in the wind, doing any other work in the 'storm' would have been hell. 

 

 

        

 

The tarp was laid and the wood put in place.  Since the football field has a 6-9 inch crown at center field they had to level off the surface.  Tubing laid, sand, water, more sand.  Refrigeration in place to keep it ice. They let the sand get cold and virtually freeze.  The have the boards up, and the ice was completed.  The have it painted white, and they put another layer of water.  When it freezes again they will paint the logo and add more water to freeze over the top. 

 

Guess what?   Currently it is 44 degrees and raining!  Yes, you heard me right, rain!   The one thing we feared more then anything.  No harm, no foul.  The temps will drop again tonight and it will get cold for several days.  Snow flurries are expected on New Years Eve, and all should be a go for Tues. 

 

I really wanted to go, but the more I see the rink the more I think that is way too much money to be 'part of it'.   It's hard enough to see a football from the stands, I can't imagine seeing a puck.  Good Gawd!  I'd need binoculars for sure.  Ok, ok, I'll admit it.  I still want to go!!  Damn it!!

 

Sooooooooooooo if you aren't too hung over, and have a few minutes.... check some of it out on Tuesday.  This commercial was filmed locally.  Ryan Miller in a meat locker to get the frosted breath effect.  They showed some of the filming and when he walked out you could tell he was frozen.  Should be interesting to see how the boys are all dressed on Tuesday.  You know where I'll be.  Yeap.  In the comfort of my warm home, drink and snacks in hand, glued to the TV.  Lets go Sabs!

 

              

 

            

Tags: Buffalo Sabres, Pittsburgh Penguins, NHL, Ice Bowl, Winter Classic