Coaches Corner

By Coach Tracy

Overview

All Santa Clarita speed skaters are strongly encouraged to participate in local Southern California races. The racing season typically includes six or seven competitions between October and March, which take place either in Lakewood, Paramount, or Valencia. Races are usually sanctioned by US Speedskating and hosted by the local club that trains at the facility where the meet is being held.

Competing

When you enter a competition, you'll be placed in races with skaters of similar ability. Whether you're a novice skater or experienced, racing allows you to test yourself against others and push your limits. Most of all, it's a chance to go fast! Typically, you can expect to skate in four races during each competition.

Required Membership for Sanctioned Meets

Once you've decided to race, make sure that you're a current member of US Speedskating. Membership is required to compete in sanctioned meets and must be obtained in advance.

Race Schedule and Entry Forms

Second, a few weeks before the meet in which you plan to race, submit your entry from the local club's website (usually available about a month in advance.) The competition schedule on the clubs' websites provides links to each upcoming race. Submit your entry and entry fee to the meet director (whose address will be indicated on the form) well before the entry deadline.

Required Equipment

Before the race, ensure you have all the required equipment: helmet, neck guard, gloves, knee pads, shin guards, and long sleeves. Sharpen your skates and make sure that your skate bolts are tightened.

Race Day

Finally, arrive at the rink at least an hour before the warm-up time on race day. This should give you plenty of time to check in, find a locker room, and jog and stretch off-ice. Make sure to have your skates on and be ready to get on the ice promptly at the warm-up time to skate several easy laps, a few accelerations, and some practice starts. After warm-up, pay close attention to the race order once the meet has started. Before each of your races, you and your competitors will be called to the "heat box" and assigned your positions on the start line. From the heat box, you'll go on to the ice and straight to the starting line for your race.

General

If you have questions about the racing rules, consult your US Speedskating Rules and Regulations Documents (a benefit of membership) or talk to a coach. Skate safely, cheer for your fellow Santa Clarita team members, and have fun!