Figure skaters showcased at Skates Alive event

December 11, 2016 · 0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

There was a lot of talent on the ice at the Centre Dufferin Recreation Complex when Skate Canada Shelburne hosted Skates Alive 2016 on Saturday, December 3.

Around 120 skaters from regional clubs arrived to compete in several different events.

It was the second year in a row the Shelburne club hosted the prestigious event.

“The event rotates around the region,” explained Mark Camilleri, communications chair for Skate Canada Shelburne. “From one year to the next, member clubs take turns hosting the event.

“We volunteered to host it again this year. We stepped up and said we’d do it again.”

Skaters arrived from clubs in Shelburne, Brampton, Orangeville, Erin, Fergus, and Acton, and ranged in age from seven and up to 16, and even some senior skaters who still compete.

The event is run by club executive and volunteers and lasted the entire day, beginning with the first skate at 8 a.m.

“There are 13 clubs in the region. An invitation goes out to member clubs – most of them have participated before,” explained Mid-West area representative Audrey Hunter of how skaters come to the ice to compete. “At the beginning of the year the coaches and skaters decide which competitions they want to enter.”

It takes a lot of training to be ready for competition on the ice. Coaches work with skaters and must make a decision based on a skaters’ skill level whether they are ready to skate in a competitive environment.

As some take up the sport earlier than others, age level does not mean skaters of the same age will have the same skill level.

Competitors take to the ice in different categories of events including elements, free skates, and dances.

A panel of experienced judges view the performances on the ice.