Ottawa Pacers
Masters Speed Skating
Short Track Programs
Short track skating takes place at the Bell Sensplex Arena (Maple Grove Drive, Kanata) on the International/Olympic ice pad. The official short track circuit is 111 metres; laps are skated counter-clockwise.
Trial Program
Learn the basics at one of our 4-week introductory sessions!
During the "trial" session, you will be taught the basics. Following completion of the program, participants may join the full club program. The first "trial" sessions are being offered in October and November.
Session 1: Sunday, October 4, 3:00–4:30pm - this off-ice session includes a skate fitting and orientation. Ice sessions take place from 9:00-10:00 pm on Oct. 6, 13, 20 and 27.
Session 2: Sunday, November 1, 3:00–4:30pm - this off-ice session includes a skate fitting and orientation. Ice sessions take place from 9:00-10:00 pm on Nov. 3, 10, 17 and 24.
Regular Program
Practices are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:25 to 10:05 pm. The practice begins with a half-hour off-ice session during which we will warm up and introduce some of the evening's skills. Bring running shoes, a water bottle and suitable clothing for the weather. The on-ice portion of the practice runs from 9:15 to 10:05 pm.
Tuesdays are technical night. All abilities share the ice, taking turns using the outer track and inner ice. Skating technique will be developed through various drills and activities. There will be some laps and physically demanding activities, but with a technical emphasis.
Thursdays are conditioning night. Participants must have some speedskating experience (for example, having taken the trial speedskate program). Fitness and conditioning will be developed through various drills and laps. Technique will occasionally be discussed, but the emphasis will be on developing strength and endurance.
The two nights form a complementary program and and are intended to work as a whole. If you're unable to do the full program, however, there is an option to participate half-time, either on Tuesdays only or Thursdays only. See the registration form for the prices.
Off-Ice Training
Starting 50 minutes before each ice session, there is a coach-led dryland/warm-up training session. Come with your running shoes and clothing suitable to the weather.
As well, from May through December, we have a dryland training session on Monday nights. This is a coach-led session that runs from 6:15 to 8:15 pm (this is an outdoor session).
Equipment (mandatory)
NOTE: If you are not wearing the mandatory equipment, you will not be allowed on the ice.
- helmet
(a bike or hockey helmet is fine)
- neckguard
(must be bib style)
- gloves
(must be cutproof, for example, kevlar or leather)
- knee
pads (soft pads are best)
- shin
guards (recommended without the ankle cuffs)
- clear
safety glasses (highly recommended)
- elbow pads
The Pacers rents skates to club members for the season. See the registration form for prices.
If you wish to buy your own skates but aren't sure what to buy or from where, come and chat with members; we'll be happy to give you suggestions.
To Register
Contact the masters representative or information officer for information on registering after the season has begun (the 2009-2010 season begins September 1, 2009).
Visit www.ottawapacers.ca to download the registration package.
Fees
See the registration package for current fees. Please read the registration package in regards to fundraising requirements/buy out options. Registration fees include membership in the Ontario Speed Skating Association and Speed Skating Canada, which provides insurance and permits you to enter races.
