Moray figure skaters have continued their phenomenal record of success at national competitions by lifting three gold, four silver and a bronze medal at a UK open event in Edinburgh.
In only her second outing at level eight competition Shelby Simmers took silver in the Murrayfield Open, the 13-year-old Keith Grammar pupil putting together a high enough score to qualify for the U-15 British Championships in Sheffield later this year.
Meanwhile Thomas Inch from Elgin Academy picked up double gold in the men’s eight events. Thomas has already competed in the British Championship and represented Team GB on the international rink.
Success continued for the Moray Skating Club members with silver for Lauren Macdonald – that would have been gold but for a fall during her routine and the one-point penalty that attracted.
Moray also enjoyed two medal wins in the ten-year old beginner ladies. Kingston’s Emily Dale took gold with teammate Darcey Thomson winning silver in a field of sixteen girls from across the UK.
Rothes skater Tomas Campbell took silver in the lever two men’s event, while Elgin’s Amber Kenny won bronze in a massive 30-competitor field in the over-12 beginner contest.
Fine performances were also given by Katie Baillie, Rebecca and Chloe Thom, Cerys Greenslade, Caley Stobo, Brooke Grant, Hannah Smith, Vivienne and Ruby Boyd, Emily and Sam Smith, Elysia Glass, Lily Gordon and Megan Keddie.
Moray Skating Club coach Graeme Summers said: “The skaters come from all over Moray and Aberdeenshire and train with coaches Sue Summers-Farrell, Graeme Summers and Carolyn McPherson as part of the Moray Skating Academy and Moray Skating Club.
“All the skaters did tremendously well and it’s absolutely fantastic that Shelby Simmers has qualified for the British Championships and the British Team.
“Moray Skating Club runs learn to skate classes for beginners of all ages and abilities every Friday at 5.15 at Moray Leisure Centre.
“The two-hour session includes a 25-minute lesson with a championship-level coach and the first week is free.
“Complete beginners are also welcome. For more information call 07974 387326, check out the club’s website or simply turn up on the night.”