This year marks the first time that Skate Martensville has offered a Synchro Skate option for their Club. Two teams were created, with the STAR Synchro Team consisting of 12 skaters ranging from 9-15 years old and the Adult Synchro Team with 13 adults, ranging in age from 18-45. Both teams hit the road this weekend to compete in the 10th annual Living Skies Invitational Synchronized Skating Competition in Regina on Sunday, March 12, which was the first competition for Martensville’s newly added synchro teams.
Approximately 140 skaters from seven clubs across Saskatchewan and Manitoba competed in the first competition since prior to the pandemic, and according to Coach Nicole Gryba, everyone was excited to be back in person, skating for a crowd again. “The fans were suited up with posters and cowbells and the energy was electric. It was so much fun,” Gryba said.
The competition had skaters of all ages and abilities, with some as young as 5, and others into their 40s. The day consisted of a practice skate in the morning and then two performances in the afternoon for each team. The Martensville Magic Star 4 team ended up earning a silver medal in a flight of five teams. “Danny and I were incredibly proud of both Martensville teams. The team worked very hard throughout the season, so to come home with any medal was a huge accomplishment,” Gryba stated.
The Martensville TNT adult team was the only team in their category, but skated two clean performances, and Gryba noted they won the hearts of the judges and the crowd. The adult team is comprised of a mix of synchro veterans, and skaters that are new to synchro, with one skater having never worn figure skates prior to this season. “When looking back at where they started at the beginning of the year, their progress is nothing short of incredible. This team’s determination and love of the sport is infectious and we are really excited to see this team continue to grow and improve.”
“Overall, the weekend was a huge success and we’re already talking about plans for next season. We would love to see these two teams grow in numbers. We welcome any retired figure skaters to dust off their skates and join our synchro teams in the fall!”
