ESTEVAN — The Estevan Skating Club's carnival, which takes place every two years, transformed Affinity Place into a lively showcase of local skating talent. Featuring 34 performances from young skaters and having the theme of The County Fair on Ice, the event also included carnival-style games, raffles and a parade finale that wrapped up the afternoon on a high note.
"It was a really good year," said Ashley Piper, head coach of the Estevan Skating Club. "We have growing numbers, lots of skaters that just want to learn to skate."
With more than 130 registered skaters ranging from three to 18 years old, the club provides opportunities for athletes at all levels. The showcase allowed every age group to take the ice and demonstrate their progress.
A special highlight of the event was the appearance of guest skater Ashlyn Schmitz, a competitive figure skater from Saskatchewan.
"She’s a high-up skater in Skate Saskatchewan. She’s usually a pairs skater, and she’s competed internationally. So we just brought her to Estevan for the show."
For two of the club’s senior skaters, Sydney Brooks and McKenna Bohn, this year’s show was particularly meaningful, as it marked their final performance before graduating.
"They finished it off, they both said a speech thanking everyone in their figure skating journey," Piper said.
The year saw skater compete at different levels of events in Dalmeny, Rosetown, Regina and Whitewood. Rachel Duncan won both of her divisions at the Skate Saskatchewan provincial competition in early March.
While the showcase signals the end of the club’s performance season, many of its skaters will continue training for upcoming competitions.
"Some of our skaters will skate until May," Piper said. "Now is the part of the season where we learn new tricks."
As the curtain closed on a successful County Fair on Ice, the club looked ahead to the future, with plans to welcome new members for the next season.
"Our next season's registration will open in September," Piper said.
