FAQ

caiscAs one of the most explosive, highly thrilled sports of the Olympic Games, short track speed skating is a hidden gem of the Winter Olympics. Short track is raced on an oval so small it can fit in a hockey rink. With flashing speed, precise execution, and decisive strategy, it rivals auto and bicycle racing for sheer excitement. Short track speed skaters can go head-to-head individually or in small relay teams. Racing counter-clockwise, competitors skate on razor-thin blades, hitting speeds near 40 miles per hour. A skater can pass opponents or even change lanes to move ahead in the pack– but it’s risky! Cause a collision or bump another racer and the passer can be disqualified. No wonder speed and finesse are crucial. If a competitor is lapped once, she must move to the outside track-lapped twice and she’s out of the race. Short track keeps spectators on the edge of their seats to the very end, where strategy gives way to a burst of pure speed. Changing lanes on the home stretch is against the rules, so viewers can always count on a breathtaking sprint to the finish.

Other speed skating fast facts:
  • Short track speed skating was introduced as a demonstration sport at the Olympics in 1988. It became an official Olympic sport at the 1992 Games.
  • In the Olympics, skaters compete in three individual events: the 500-, 1000- and 1500-meter events.
  • Skaters compete in team events as well. Women skate the 3000-meter relay, and men the 5000-meter.
  • During non-Olympic years, short track speed skaters take to the ice in World Cup competition, the World Championships and domestic championship events.

Gloves Gloves are worn to protect skaters' hands from blades. They are especially important when going around a curve because the hand is placed on the ice to help maintain balance.

Goggles Goggles are not required, but some skaters wear them to protect their eyes from wind and ice chips. Tinted lenses reduce glare and aid visibility.

Helmet Hard plastic helmets prevent potential head injuries resulting from crashes with competitors, ice or side walls.

Protective Wear Knee, shin, and sometimes neck guards offer protection from the blades of the skater in front.

Skates Short track boots lace higher up the ankle than traditional speed skating skates and are constructed from customised foot moulds and with heavier materials to help stabilise the foot and ankle around corners. To grip the ice around turns, blades are extremely sharp and are bent in at an arc that mirrors the direction of the turn. In addition, blades are placed off-centre to the left so the boot does not touch the ice when the skater leans into the turn.

Skin-tight Suit Skin-tight suits mould to the skater's body to reduce wind resistance.

The long and short of it is … ice speed skating is a sport for all ages and skill levels, from the beginning novice through Olympic and world class speed skaters. Whether you choose entry level skating, are looking for a recreational experience or a viable cross training alternative, or want a chance at the Olympic rings, speed skating offers unique developmental opportunities for athletic involvement and success.

Canterbury Alpine Ice Speed Skating Club skates at

Alpine Ice Sports Centre,

495 Brougham Street,Opawa,

Christchurch 8023

See the Events page for detail schedules.

Our training times are

Tues 6:00pm to 7:30pm (Off Ice Training 5:00pm)

Thurs 5:15pm to 6:15pm (Off Ice Training 4:15pm)

Alpine Ice Sport Centre
495 Brougham Street, Opawa,
Christchurch 8023
We skate nearly all year around. Our season runs from February through to Middle December; Special training camps is usually conducted in July holiday times in conjunction with a team from South Korea. See the events page for detailed times.

Our training times are

Tues 6:00pm to 7:30pm (Off Ice Training 5:00pm)

Thurs 5:15pm to 6:15pm (Off Ice Training 4:15pm)

Alpine Ice Sport Centre
495 Brougham Street, Opawa,
Christchurch 8023
Canterbury Alpine Ice Speed Club is a volunteer organization. We have an appreciation of the sport and want to encourage others to participate. We need parent volunteers to help with off ice activities during practice, like moving pads on/off the ice, helping the skaters get on the ice. There are many other organizational roles where we welcome your participation.
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Speed skates are sharpened by hand using a sharpening stone and a jig. Ask our coaches and more experienced skaters for further information