The skaters were leaving it all on the ice on Thursday during the final day of the Skate Canada Autumn Classic International in Barrie.
Canada’s Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier earned a spot podium with a silver medal in Ice Dance.
“We are so happy, we couldn’t be happier,” says Poirier.
The Autumn Classic is part of a ten event series where skaters can gain World Cup status. It’s the first time an event like this has been held in Canada. For World Cup champion Jeffery Buttle it’s remarkable to see the event held at the rink he once called home.
“Not only long overdue for Barrie to have an event but I think for Canada to have an event of this calibre.”
The event attracted athletes and coaches from around the world. For Brian Orser, it’s an opportunity to return home.
“It’s special for me because I’m now here as a coach, I have a female skater that’s representing Germany and I have a Canadian skater, and that’s pretty cool.”
For super fans like Bobbi Cochar it’s a dream come true. She’s travelled the world to watch skaters but on Thursday she simply had to travel from Toronto.
“I’m and adult ice dance, I’m on the ice five days a week but to go see this caliber skating is what you want to become.”
Newmarket’s Gabrielle Daleman put on a strong performance during the ladies free skate – claiming the top spot on the podium. Canada’s Julianne Seguin took the bronze.
