The local skating club put on a performance, embracing the holiday season. Roughly 40 skaters ranging in ages from three to 17 participated in the event, which was held at the Sparwood Arena on Dec. 10.
“We are really excited to be putting on the exhibition,” said Lisa Skubovius, head coach of the Fernie Skating Club. “It’s a real win-win because the skaters love doing these little numbers and performing for the audience and also it’s a really great experience for them to get out in front of an audience and have the feeling of putting themselves on the line, putting their skills to the test in front of an audience. So it’s a really great opportunity for them to gain that experience and have fun while they are doing it.”
The youngest skaters were the pre CanSkate, most of whom just learned how to skate this season.
“You will see skaters from three years old who are just learning how to move on the ice to our most advanced senior skaters who will be doing double jumps and really spectacular moves. It’s really great to see that range of skating,” said Skubovius.
There were 18 performances, including 10 solo performances. All of the group performances were set to holiday-themed music.
The exhibition’s intent was to allow for all skaters to gain experience performing in front of an audience while celebrating the holiday season.
“For this exhibition, we just asked that the skaters wear whatever they feel reflects the joy of the season, whether it’s colourful or sparkly, or if they want to wear their favourite skating dress. The kids won’t be matching, but they will all be adorned in festive regalia,” said Skubovius. “The main thrust is for the kids to get out there and have fun and gain some experience in front of an audience. We also love that the audience joins in and it helps everyone get involved in the spirit of the season.
