Local Figure Skating Club Celebrating 50 Years
The Hines Creek and District Figure Skating Club (HCFSC) is turning 50 this year, and they’re hosting an exciting celebration featuring four-time world champion figure skater Kurt Browning.
Preparations are well underway for the performances at the Dave Shaw Memorial Complex on Friday, March 10 and Saturday, March 11, in Hines Creek.
“For our anniversary, our club is hosting two ice shows featuring Kurt Browning. Our local skaters will be performing their routines, and our club mascots, Shiver and Quiver, will be making an appearance,” said HCFSC Coach Sandra Klassen. “Kurt Browning is an ambassador for our sport, and he has shown the world what ‘fun’ is in figure skating.”
On March 12, the HCFSC will also be hosting a clinic with Kurt Browning coaching all Starskate levels.
“Kurt will have two ice sessions per group, with three groups of 20 skaters on the ice,” said Klassen. “The skaters will have the opportunity to talk to and learn from a very famous world champion! The skaters will also get to enjoy two off ice sessions doing yoga and dance.”
The HCFSC incorporated in 1972 and became a member of the Canadian Figure Skating Association (now Skate Canada).
“Over the years, we have seen our arena burn down, a new arena built and artificial ice installed in the 1990s,” said Klassen. “We have been fortunate to keep our club going.
Skating numbers have risen and fallen, but with groups of dedicated parents, coaches and community support, this club comes back year after year with enthusiasm.”
The club holds annual ice carnivals to showcase their young skaters.
“Throughout the year, our skaters practice two to three times per week, go to competitions and are tested on a regular basis,” said Klassen.
Tickets for the performances are $10, and can be purchased at DMK Signs, ATB Bank and Scanalta in Hines Creek and at Mad Dog Cresting in Fairview.