The Stuart Lake Figure Skating Club travelled to Williams Lake for a competition recently.
It was the Cariboots and Blades Competition and it took place in the Cariboo Memorial Complex on january 29 and 30.
For most of the kids it was the second competition of the year.
“All of them improved on their performance,” said Cheryl Hodder, a club coach. “I was really proud of all of them and their effort.”
The skaters start training at the beginning of October and skate two to three hours a week through the season.
For the competition, the skaters work on a one to one and a half minute routine that includes five required jumps and two required spins.
Some students have two programs, one solo program and one “showcase” program which integrates a more theatrical approach.
Marks are assigned for how well they execute the various elements, their presentation and interpretation of the music.
Competitor Sydnee Schlamp is a 10 year old figure skater who has been involved in the sport for five years.
Schlamp dressed as a magician for her showcase and pulled flowers out of her sleeves for the finale, all to the song “Do you believe in magic?.”
She was awarded second for her showcase and says that while “it feels a bit nervous at the very beginning….as soon as you get out there it is like you’re alone out there.”
Schlamp landed a lux, a flip-loop waltz jump and tow loop in her routine.
“It’s experience that you never felt,” she says. “It definitely is fun.”
