Ice Intrepid lived up to their name tonight.
The University of Manitoba team were fearlessness at the Skate Canada Synchronized Skating Championships on Friday, February 24th. They skated the first portion of the competition, Free Program I, with endurance and poise, garnering a score of 52.30. They skate their Free Program II on Saturday, February 25th.
Ice Intrepid’s goal is a top five placement to qualify two teams from the Manitoba region for nationals in 2017/2018. The U of M team, who represent the Hazelridge FSC, is battling eight other teams in the open category. In 2014, Ice Intrepid was ranked fourth.
According to co-coach of Ice Intrepid, Megan Maxwell – a former synchro skater – the synchro has “evolved” since the 1990s.
“It can be very recreational,” said Maxwell. “But in those 20 years, it has progressed and the level of ability … it’s the skating skills and ability to do turns.”
To skate with Ice Intrepid, Maxwell usually recommends a “Junior Silver skating test or a lot of synchro background.”
“They’re (the team) doing counters and rockers and twizzles,” said Maxwell. “Or I can get a strong (singles) skater … who’s super strong … who can match that strong skating skill.”
According to Maxwell, synchro demands a high-level of commitment with team support.
“When you have that team, that social aspect is really important,” said Maxwell. “There’s that commitment, that loyalty.”
At the Skate Canada Synchronized Skating Championships, Ice Intrepid’s against some strong competition.
“Half of the teams have world medals,” said Maxwell. “It’s pretty amazing to go to nationals.”
Over 400 skaters are competing at the novice, junior, senior and open teams are category.
The Skate Canada Synchronized Skating Championships run from February 24th to 26th, 2017 in Calgary, Alberta at the WinSport’s Markin MacPhail Centre.
Skating Scene 