The PMD arena was abuzz with 310 skaters from 15 different clubs, ages 3 years old to young adults, putting their best performances forward for Skate Canada judges to score on Jan. 30 and 31.
More than 1,200 people walked through the admissions gate to cheer on the competitors.
Every corner of the arena was utilized for this event, with the judges headquarters and EMS tucked in the old dressing room areas and vendors and Candy Land-themed photo areas throughout the community hall and lobby areas.
The spectator stands were full and overflowing much of the time.
It’s not a skating competition without flowers and Blooming Dale’s and other Fine Things did not disappoint, with donated roses and carnations, a favorite for parents and grandparents to present to their special skater. The Candy Land Café cooked up a nourishing storm.
“Walking tacos” could be seen strolling throughout the arena in the hands of hungry spectators and competitors throughout the event. The large and accommodating PMD arena dressing room floors told the tale of a glitter-filled Skate Canada event.
Compliments flooded forward to the local organizing committee chair Deb Mantler regarding the high quality of organization of the event.
“This was the best Weskate I’ve ever attended,” declared a parent from the Durham skating Club.
Skate Canada-Central Ontario host representative Heather Carr sent an email following the event that read:
“Wow! What a weekend. Weskate is over for another year, and it was a success. I know that your committee, family, club and community members have put in countless hours to make this competition a success for every skater and their family in our area.
“You can rest easy tonight knowing you have done an absolutely fantastic job. It has been my pleasure to get to know each and every one of you and work with you. You are all very hard working, organized people. I wish you and your club many more successes in the coming years. Good luck with your upcoming carnival and the celebration of your 40th year!”
This competition could not be successful without the support of local business.
Sponsorship chairperson Kelly Culp reported, “Local businesses, for the most part, are excited to sponsor youth athletics. They are very supportive of the local programs that enhance our community and give kids positive role models and skill-building frames.”
Culp continued, “I would like to thank all our sponsors, advertisers and people who donated products for our skater goodie bags, draw table, or café.
“The Drayton skating club’s program will benefit financially for seasons to come. It was a lot of work, but worth every hour.”
On-ice success
The Drayton and District Skating Club achieved success on the ice as well, demonstrating superb skating skills, organizers report.
Results for club skaters are:
– Brooke Culp, silver;
– Evan Hills, gold and silver;
– Amy Cosens, gold;
– Kathryn Giles, 5th and gold;
– Lily Beyers, 4th and 5th;
– Chloe Perrin, silver and gold;
– Paige Hills – two silvers and a 6th;
– Brianna Flewwelling, two bronze and a silver;
– Melanie Giles, gold, silver, bronze;
– Kinzie Carvill, bronze;
– Dajung Yoon, bronze, gold, gold, 4th;
– Sarah Culp, bronze, silver gold;
– Maddie Klaassen, two golds, bronze, 5th;
– Carmen Duimering, bronze, two golds, 7th;
– Cameron Miller, gold;
– Lizzy Klosa, silver, two 7th;
– Mallorie Jack, two silver and 4th;
– Erin Schill, gold, bronze, 6th;
– Julia Mantler, two gold;
– Sierra Martin, two silver and gold;
– Krystal Wakelim, bronze;
– Adyn Melenbacher, gold and 6th;
– Daphne Culp, two bronze, two silver, 6th;
– Quinn Melenbacher, bronze, two silver, 5th;
– Sarah McIntryre, two silver, bronze, gold, 6th;
– Katie Miller, 5th;
Bridget Duimering, two gold, silver;
– Mischa Adams, two gold;
– Kelsey Flewwelling, injured;
– Rebecca, gold;
– Rachel, gold
– Molly Frook , gold;
– Hailey Metzger, silver;
– Leah MacKay, gold;
– Marissa Martin, gold;
– Samantha Noble, silver;
Myriam Brunet, gold;
– Julia Martin, silver;
Angelina Morris, silver;
– Kandice Roth, gold;
– Bria Moore, gold;
– Harlea Gladue, silver;
– Brooke Smith, gold; and
– Danica Lee, gold.
Carnival coming up
The Drayton Skating Club will be celebrating 40 years on ice at the Ice Carnival, continuing on with the Candy Land theme, on March 12 with shows at 2 and 7pm.
