Figure skating world focuses on Kelowna

Photo: Contributed - Skate Canada

Patrick Chan at the 2013 Skate Canada International in Saint John, NB.

World class figure skating will be coming to Kelowna next year, as the city has been chosen as the site of the 2014 Skate Canada International, Oct. 31 to Nov. 2 at Prospera Place.

The event, being held in Kelowna for the first time, pits some of the world's top figure skaters in head-to-head competitions in four disciplines, mens, ladies, pairs and dance.

Jim Gabriel, the city's active living and cultural director says the city is thrilled to have been chosen to host the event.

"Alongside our local skating club volunteers who will play an integral role in delivering the event, we're confident that the community will showcase Kelowna's assets to the thousands of spectators and millions of viewers world-wide,” says Gabriel.

“This event is first to receive funding support from the City through our Strategic Development Fund, which was established, in part, to attract and secure large scale events that will enhance our community and create a dynamic environment. We are truly looking forward to welcoming Skate Canada and the global figure skating community to our city in 2014.”

Skate Canada International is the second competition in the annual ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating® series.

The other events take place in the United States (Skate America), China (Cup of China), France (Trophée Eric Bompard), Russia (Rostelecom Cup) and Japan (NHK Trophy).

Skaters are awarded points based on their placements in the series' events. The top-six men and ladies and the top-six pair and ice dance teams qualify for the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final in December 2014.

Tourism Kelowna President/CEO, Nancy Cameron, says the event provides a tremendous opportunity for the city.

"The event will shine an international spotlight on Kelowna and on this city’s ability to excel at hosting major events, while providing our tourism industry with a direct boost at a slower time of the year," says Cameron.

"We had a strong team of partners who brought all the pieces together, including the City of Kelowna, the Kelowna Skating Club, the Delta Grand Okanagan, RG Properties and the Kelowna Rockets.”

Competitors for Skate Canada International, and all of the ISU Grand Prix events, will be announced following the ISU Grand Prix Commission meetings in June 2014.

Tickets are expected to go on sale in the spring of 2014.