Olympic Hopefuls Skate into Spokane

I’ve been lying a little low the past few days as I’ve been traveling in the eastern part of the state, learning all about what’s new and happening in Spokane.  We Seattle-ites need to get over our west side elitism and check out what’s going on in the second largest city in the state.

Right now what’s happening is the US Figure Skating Championships being held at the Spokane Arena (map).  This event will determine who makes the Olympic team, representing the US in the skating competitions at next month’s Olympic Games in Vancouver BC.  I’ve been thrilled to be in Spokane and have the opportunity to attend some of the skating events.

I’ve been a fan of the sport all my life, and can rattle off names of past champions like there’s no tomorrow:  Michelle Kwan, Kristi Yamaguchi, Brian Boitano, and Scott Hamilton.  But I can go even farther back than that, and remember fondly performances by Dorothy Hamill, Peggy Fleming, John Misha Petkevich, and Tai Babilonia and Randy Gardner,

I’ve had the opportunity to attend the compulsory dance event and the women’s short program, both reminding me of the beauty and athleticism of figure skating.  I even managed to snag a few photos, admittedly though, this type of photography takes much different equipment (and skills) than I have.

Still to come:

• Friday, January 22nd – Junior Ladies Free Skate (10 am) and Senior Original Dance (6 pm)
• Saturday, January 23rd – Senior Free Dance (11:40 am) and Senior Ladies Free Skate (4 pm)
• Sunday, January 24th – Smucker’s Skating Spectacular (12:30 pm)

There’s all sorts of other events going on surrounding the skating events, from Fan Fest in Riverfront Park (map) to watching for skater-sightings at local restaurants and hotels.  (HINT:  the Davenport Hotel (map) is home for many of the skaters)

Tickets are still available, although limited, so consider making this part of your weekend plans.  See if you can pick the winners!

NOTE:  A very big THANK YOU to Pam Scott of the Spokane CVB and Amanda Watkins representing Washington State Tourism for hosting this trip.