Speed Skating in Terrace

From its beginnings on the canals of Holland as early as the 13th century to the Terrace Sportsplex in August of 2009. Speed skating certainly has taken its time to get here but as of August 24th there is a new speed skating club in Terrace.

For all those moms who don't like the intense environment that is associated with hockey, speed skating is a great sport to consider introducing your child to. The combination of speed, balance, agility and the fact it is a great cardiovascular workout also make it an interesting exercise option. If you do the math it might be a Canadian's best shot at earning themselves an Olympic medal.

Speed skating has been part of the Olympic Games since the first Winter Games were held in Chamonix in 1924. Originally, only men took part in competition. At the Lake Placid 1932 Games, however, women’s speed skating was a demonstration event and became a full medal event at the Squaw Valley 1960 Olympic Winter Games.

With 12 medal events in speed skating on the slate for 2010 and a small number of other countries who take the sport seriously its a wonder more people aren't skating in circles instead of pummeling each other to knock a piece of frozen rubber in a net.

Speed skating is the fastest human powered, non-mechanical aided sport in the world. Skaters can reach speeds of more than 60 kilometers per hour. It would be an interesting experiment to pit Sidney Crosby against Francois-Louis Tremblay (ranked #1 in the world in 500M) for one lap around the rink. Unfortunately hockey skates won't cut it, a special pair of speed skates are required. The main difference being how the blade is sharpened speed skates also have a longer blade (longer than the boot) and less ankle support.

The Prince George skating club is genoursly working closely with the emerging club in Terrace to ensure it is a successful venture. The donation of protective mats for the boards, skates as well as access to seasoned instructors and a financial plan give the operation credibility.  

I've been skating since the age of 4 and never had the opportunity to try speed skating, I'm anxiously awaiting my first glide or cushioned crash into the Terrace boards on speed skates. Stay posted for my post first skate report!

For more information on speed skates check out these websites:

http://www.pgspeedskating.ca

http://www.speedskating.ca 

How It Works

Short track speed skating takes place on a 111 meter oval track. Athletes compete in groups of 2-8 on the single lane track skating counter-clockwise.