By Scott Roblin

Skating community celebrates with Christmas Gala Sunday

Dec 10, 2017 | 5:53 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – A chance to give back for the Cypress School of Skating on Sunday with their first ever Christmas Gala.

While the public was able to strap on the skates at the Family Leisure Centre, the event also served as a tune-up for Cypress’ many skaters.

Members of the Cypress School were able to perform their routines in the gala portion of the afternoon ahead of the Calgary Region STARSkate Invitational.

The three-day skating competition will run in Calgary and will also be a run-off qualifier for the 2018 Alberta Winter Games.

Cypress skater MacKenzie Bourlon said Sunday was a great afternoon for both members of the public hitting the ice and her teammates getting ready for Calgary.

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“We think it’s important because we need to get ready for competition, but we want to make it fun for everyone,” said Bourlon. “And, we don’t want to make the skaters nervous, so we get them prepared ahead of time.”

Following the performances, a public skate was held on the FLC ice with Santa himself even skating a few laps in the final hour.

Skating Director George Yuhas said it was inspiring to see Cypress School members helping out the young skaters just learning the sport.

“The kids love it when they see the older ones out there,” said Yuhas. “And, the little ones that can skate want to show mom and dad, and teach them how to do it. So, it’s really a great thing.”

Medicine Hat’s nine skaters will head to the STARSkate Invitational on Friday, with the competition coming to a close next Sunday.