The Fernie Memorial Arena was a hub of activity on Saturday, as the Skate for Life Day took over the arena. The event was dedicated to skating for all ages, from toddlers to seniors.
Kathy Sutherland, a coach at the Fernie Skating Club and event organizer, said that the event is to promote all skating activities for all aged. “We want to get people on the ice, just because they love skating,” said Sutherland.
The event started with a Learn to Skate program, to get children onto skates for the first time, followed by a seniors versus kids’ hockey game. Members of the Fernie Skating Club and minor hockey players participated in a Skate-a-Thon, which helped raised funds for the club’s expenses. The last event was a 80s dance for teenagers. With the ticket admission, teens also get free admission to the Ghostriders game, which followed the dance.
“Some people just learn to skate because they like to skate so they skate recreationally forever, which is great. That is what we are looking for – to just get people to see that they like skating and it’s a good activity even when you’re older,” said Sutherland.
The event also featured face painting and some refreshments, such as chili and chips.
“It’s a promotional event just to show how great skating is,” said Sutherland.