Learn to Race – Speedskating
Go Fast on Ice: Speedskating at Winterhurst
Speedskating is one of the most decorated Olympic winter sports, and Lakewood has had its own club since the early 1940s. The Lakewood Speedskating Club practices at Winterhurst every fall and winter, teaching short-track speedskating, proper technique, and safety on the ice. Skaters range from age 6 to 66+, so the whole family can take part.
New Skaters Welcome
- Open to all ages and abilities. First-timers and hockey or figure skaters are welcome.
- Try it free: attend two practices before you join.
- Hockey skates are fine to start, and the club has a limited number of speed skates to borrow.
- You should be able to skate on your own. Coaches will place you in a group that matches your ability.
- Come watch a practice or jump right in. You can start any time during the season.
Fall & Winter Practices
September – March · Rink 1
- Sundays: 7:00 – 8:30 PM
- Wednesdays: 7:00 – 8:00 PM
Skate one or both nights a week. A few holiday dates are off, so check the rink schedule.
What to Wear
This gear is required on the ice:
- Helmet with a full hard shell (bike helmets are OK)
- Gloves
- Long sleeves and long, stretchy pants (no jeans or baggy pants)
- Knee pads
- A neck guard made for speedskating
Bring a water bottle, too.
Coaching & Racing
The club is coached by former U.S. National and Olympic Team members, including two-time Olympians Katie Marquard and Julie Koons, U.S. Speedskating Hall of Famer Dennis Marquard, and Joe Balbo, who has coached with the club since 1992. Past club skaters include 15 U.S. National Team, 6 World Team, and 3 Olympic Team members. Current Ohio skaters on the U.S. National Team include Ryan Shane, Una Willhoite, and Sofia Koons (Development Team).
Members track their one-lap times and monthly club race results, and can race in local, regional, and national meets if they choose.
Joining
Skaters join the club, the Ohio Speedskating Association, and US Speedskating. Season dues depend on whether you skate one or two nights a week. See current rates and how to join.
Questions?
Send the coaches a message through the club’s contact page.