By Canadian Press

Schizas moves up three spots to win Skate Canada Challenge

Jan 16, 2021 | 8:06 PM

Madeline Schizas of Oakville, Ont., moved up three spots to win the women’s singles title of the virtual Skate Canada Challenge.

The 17-year-old, who was fourth after the short program, had a virtually flawless free skate to Michel Legrand’s “I Will Wait for You,” for 117.95 points and overall score of 175.65.

Alison Schumacher scored 168.12, while world bronze medallist Gabrielle Daleman was third (165.66).

Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier are the leaders after the rhythm dance. The reigning Canadian champions scored 87.96 points.

Laurence Fournier-Beaudry and Nikolaj Sorensen are second (86.55), while Marjorie Lajoie and Zachary Lagha scored 81.58 to sit third.

WHAT'S ON

Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat and area: Dec. 13-15

17h ago

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed adding new shelter spaces at Alberta government's request

Dec 12, 2024

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner, applications due Friday

Dec 12, 2024

Because of rising COVID-19 cases in Canada, the Challenge was held virtually. Skaters submitted videos of their programs that were shot at their home rinks over the past few weeks. To simulate a live show, the programs were broadcast — and judged in real time — on Saturday.

No fans were permitted in the rinks, just the skaters, their coaches, a video crew, and a Skate Canada official who was there to ensure competition rules were followed.

The makeshift competition is the only event Canadians skaters have had this season. Skate Canada recently announced the cancellation of next month’s Canadian championships in Vancouver. That event would have determined the team for the world championships in March in Stockholm. Whether or not the world championships will happen is questionable.

Last year’s world championships in March were one of the first international sports event cancelled due to the pandemic. Skate Canada International in October was also cancelled.

The U.S. national championships, meanwhile, are happening this weekend in Las Vegas.

The men’s free program is Sunday.

Kirsten Moore-Towers and Michael Marinaro won the pairs competition last weekend.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 16, 2021.

The Canadian Press