Forget about the 40 year old man learning how to skate.
I object to the age comment as well. There are plenty of older skaters who still maintain higher skill levels and belong on freestyle sessions, not public sessions.
I think valiant was referencing himself on the 40 year old beginner comment, not taking a jab at anyone or trying to make an age-related comment (meaning, pay no mind to the 40 year old (himself) learning how to skate).
I apologize for my misinterpretation and my obvious naiveté on the subject. I guess I am just hypersensitive because I feel so out of place whenever I step out on the ice. It's just a shame that there aren’t more hours in a day or more ice to be had so everyone can get some quality practice time.
If anything, this conversation has encouraged me to get through the basic stages as efficiently as possible.