So You Think You’re Fast? Prove It!
If you have never seen speedskating in person, it’s time to make a jaunt over to Winterhurst Arena in Lakewood and watch adults and kids - as young as five - race around the oval, dipping deep into the corners and pushing for the finish line. But even better would be to give it a try yourself.
Depending on your age, you may be better acquainted with Bonnie Blair than with Apolo Anton Ohno, but don’t let that stop you from strapping on a pair of skates. Speedskating is a great workout, combining strength training and cardiovascular endurance.
Young and old, beginners and accomplished skaters alike, all come together to practice and compete in the Lakewood Speedskating Club. Our skaters include children, teens, and adults from as far away as Chagrin Falls and as close as Rocky River, as well as several families who have passed the love of the sport on to their children and grandchildren. Many join to compete, but others join simply for the exercise and personal and physical growth that speedskating promotes.
The Lakewood Speedskating Club was formed in the 1940s and has a long history of providing supervised training, producing National Champions and World and Olympic team members. Supported by a trio of talented and accomplished coaches, Lakewood Club skaters benefit from their knowledge and experience.
Dennis Marquard is a Level 2 Certified Coach and a U.S. Speedskating Hall of Fame inductee. Katie Class Marquard was a member of the 1984 Sarajevo and 1988 Calgary Olympic teams and served as Executive Director of U.S. Speedskating for 16 years. Joe Balbo, who has been coaching for more than 20 years, is a speedskating referee and certified personal trainer.
The Lakewood Speedskating Club is a member of the Ohio Speedskating Association and U.S. Speedskating. Practices are held on Sunday and Wednesday evenings at Winterhurst Ice Arena in Lakewood. Skaters can elect to skate one or both nights. To participate, skaters need to be able to skate independently. They are also required to wear a helmet, gloves, knee pads, and a neck guard. The club offers speedskate rental on a yearly basis. All ages and abilities are welcome. New skaters are welcome at any time!
Interested? Check out our Website at www.lakewoodspeedskatingclub.org or contact Coach Denny at 440-899-9577 or marquardfam@wowway.com.
Be a part of the sport that won more Olympic medals than any other winter sport!