Provincial Speed Skating Camp Comes to Richmond
01 August 2006
The Richmond Rockets Speed Skating Club is set to host the 2006 BC Provincial Speed Skating Summer Training Camp at the Richmond Ice Centre from August 7 to 11. Designed as a “high performance” camp, but open to all levels and ages of recreational skaters, the five day event will feature generous ice time, outstanding coaches, and classroom training.
“This is a great opportunity for those enrolled in the camp and anyone in the community to stop by the rink and see what speed skating has to offer individuals and entire families,” says Sue Spencer, President for the Richmond Rockets.
The Ice Centre will also feature a display showcasing the Richmond Oval – which will host the long-track speed skating competition during the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. After the Games it will become a multipurpose centre of excellence for sports and wellness. The Oval will offer a diverse array of community uses, health and wellness services and both summer and winter sports throughout the building’s three floors. Outside the Oval and in the surrounding neighbourhood an extensive network of parks, trails, public gathering places, play areas, public art and other amenities have been planned to make the area a major new destination point for both residents and visitors.
“Since the Rockets club was formed in November 2005, we’re up to 40 members, which is amazing considering the season doesn’t even begin until September,” says Spencer, who expects the number of members will increase to 60 by the end of the season in March, 2007.
The camp brings together speed skaters from all across British Columbia, with some coming from as far as Alberta and the United States. Ages of participant range from seven to 70. The camp will also feature Officiating/Coaching clinics to train those interested in becoming speed skating officials. Parents of speed skaters will also have the opportunity to learn about nutritional requirements and equipment maintenance.
For more information regarding the Richmond Rockets or the 2006 BC Provincial Speed Skating Summer Training Camp, visit www.richmondrockets.ca or email skate@richmondrockets.ca.
