An impressive lineup of figure skaters from around Otago and Southland took part in the Alexandra Ice Skating Club championships yesterday morning.

More than 40 skaters entered the annual competitions, and for the first time in many years the club also held a demonstration of synchronised skaters.

It is also the first year the competition was held under the new roof at Alexandra IceInline - but there was no rain or wind to worry about, with the hoar frost making conditions near perfect for competing. 

Some of the skaters have been training up to 10 hours a week in preparation for the competition, and the club’s top skater Bridey Sangster (14) has already been named in the New Zealand team following her impressive win at the Clucas Cup in Dunedin in mid-June.

The Alexandra skaters range in age from 10 to 30-plus with a strong adult skating contingent also competing this season. 

The Alexandra Ice Skating Club’s synchronised skating team showed guests their routine. VIDEO: The Central App

Club president Angie Sutherland said the day was a great success, “and the strong entries show there is still a lot of passion and dedication in a precision sport that involves many cold mornings out on the ice with early starts, and a huge commitment from everyone involved.”

Coached by Sam Kuri, a total of 16 competitive figure skaters from Alexandra will head to Gore next weekend for the Otago Southland championships, hosted by Ice Sports Southland.

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