Skate Amherstburg hosts third annual “Leap into Spring” gala

The Starlights Synchro team performs at the Feb. 26 “Leap into Spring” gala.

The talents of local figure skaters hit the ice last week for the “Leap into Spring” gala.

It was hosted by Skate Amherstburg, specifically the Diamond Divas synchro team, as a way to give the association’s synchro teams a chance to perform. The show lasted nearly one hour last Thursday night, Feb. 26, at the Libro Centre.

“We did it to have a night for all synchro teams to perform,” said Diamond Divas coach Shelley Knapp. “It’s a night to have them perform for all of their family and friends.”

Knapp said other synchro teams under the Skate Amherstburg umbrella include the Starlights and the Starlights developmental team. The Starlights are for youth skaters up to the age of 18 while the developmental team are younger skaters, many in their pre-teen years, trying to earn a spot on the Starlights.

Charlotte Bedal was one of the solo performers. More photos are on the RTT’s social media sites.

“We’re celebrating 20 years of synchro in Amherstburg,” said Knapp.

While Knapp still coaches the Diamond Divas, she has passed coaching responsibilities for the Starlights to Felicia Laramie. Katie Knapp and Danielle Peltier have taken over coaching responsibilities for the Starlights developmental team.

Knapp said there were a number of solo skaters performing at the gala, most from Skate Amherstburg but some from South Windsor.

Synchro teams from Amherstburg have been participating in recent competitions, Knapp stated, with the Diamond Divas travelling to Woodstock and Oakville. The Starlights competed in Oakville and Lakeshore.

The Skate Amherstburg ice show is coming up March 29 from 2-4 p.m. at the Libro Centre. This year’s theme is “Rain or Shine.”

Skate Amherstburg hosts third annual “Leap into Spring” gala

By Ron Giofu