Ice-skaters hope for frosty weather

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32635, 17 June 1971, Page 20

Ice-skaters hope for frosty weather

The mild frosts that Christchurch experienced earlier this week were readily welcomed by one small section of the sporting community—the ice-skating enthusiasts.

On Sunday, the first Canterbury ice-skating championship—the short track events —will be decided at Lake Ida, provided sufficient ice has formed on the lake through the week. Favoured to win the senior over-all aggregate is last year’s champion and the New Zeeland 880 yd record holder, R. J. Montgomery.

Training session* Montgomery has been one of about 20 skaters who have attended Sunday morning training sessions at the Centaurus rink under the supervision of the experienced speed skaters, J. Dale, C. Humm, and P. Silcock. In addition, he has supplemented his build-up with road running and cycling sessions. The New Zealand marathon and long-track aggregate title-holder, J. Havenaar, although not having done the amount of training he would have wished, is a natural

enough skater to present a strong challenge to Montgomery. Humm, who has undergone a strenous training programme this year, Silcock, a consistent place-getter in recent years, and G. Jayett, a new-comer to senior competition, should ensure that racing is of a high standard.

Intermediate grade In the intermediate grade, the powerful G. Erickson, who is well conditioned after a solid six months of training, is virtually assured of the title. However, competition in the junior section should be more equal. C. Sweeney, B. Oetgen, D. Copping, and L. Paul are all likely candidates to figure in the finish.

Two intermediate women skaters are the only women entered. Last year’s champion, Miss S. Phillips, should prove too strong for Miss V. Lithgow, a new skater.