Albuquerque roller rink secures one-year insurance deal after community push

Skate-O-Mania in Albuquerque will remain open for the next year after securing new insurance coverage, a development the owner credits to a local response that helped bridge a gap in the national market for rink underwriters. The business had previously warned it might close by the end of November due to rising costs associated with legal claims.

In an email to patrons last month, owner Courtney Ballew stated that soaring insurance premiums could force the doors to shut. On Tuesday, the rink announced via social media that it had obtained coverage for the next 12 months. Ballew said he received emails from 30 to 40 local insurance brokers, community members, and state lawmakers after sharing the news of the potential closure.

Ballew connected with several underwriters nationwide who specialize in covering roller rinks. He said most declined before one finally agreed to the policy. The owner signed paperwork with a Wisconsin-based insurer on Friday. The agreement establishes coverage through November 2027.

"It was a huge relief," Ballew said. "Finally able to sleep so much better knowing that we're able to keep open."

The one-year contract provides time for the business to pursue a more permanent legal solution. Ballew has attributed the rising costs to a lack of tort reform in New Mexico. He said personal injury attorneys often prolong claims until insurers settle, even when the business has disproved the liability. The rink has added cameras and waiver protections in recent years, but Ballew said those measures are insufficient.

Ballew said he sent information on tort reform to Democrat Sens. Michael Padilla and Natalie Figueroa of Albuquerque. The senators indicated in initial messages that they would look into the issue, though Ballew has not heard back since. He described passing general tort reform as a long shot but suggested a statute specifically for roller rinks is more feasible. He noted that at least a dozen states have specific roller skating statutes, similar to existing laws for ski areas and horseback riding facilities.

With its immediate future secured, the business plans to meet with other roller rinks across the state to build a case for legislation. Ballew is also considering driving the rink's giant roller skate car to the 2026 legislative session in Santa Fe with banners and supporters. The venue has operated in Albuquerque since 1980 and will reach its 50th anniversary in a few years.