“As the opening event of the year, it’s a challenge to plan and organize due to the tight timelines and not knowing the likely participation levels,” he said.

“Almost every Mission skater achieved a personal best time in one or more distance while there were many visiting skaters notching PBs.

“Part of the equation is the excellent ice conditions we have in Mission. We were able to adjust the ice temperatures to get the best balance between grip and glide.”

The Racers had 15 skaters take part at the Leisure Centre, mostly in the lower age groups – six of whom were participating in their first-ever competition.

BC Winter Games coaches Derrick Ross and Julian Green were paying particular attention to the Division 3 skaters who will make up the Zone 3 team for the Games hosted in Mission next February. “While too early to make any judgments, it is good to see the quality and depth of the group we are picking from.”

Mission contributed a growing number of officials and volunteers, many of whom will be attending the Games.

“The Racers are a growing club getting back to its traditional numbers,” stated Wenting. “We are so excited to see families coming to try our sport and staying  long enough to become officials and coaches.”

The Mission Racers practice Tuesdays and Thursdays and new members are always welcome to try the sport twice with no cost or obligation.