Synchronized Skating

Synchronized skating, or “synchro” is a specialized discipline of skating involving groups of eight or more skaters performing various group formations and maneuvers. The objective is for the team to perform as one unit executing circles, blocks, lines, wheels and intersections in unison to the music, while demonstrating quality edges, power and flow. Skate Canada’s SynchroSkate program includes a number of Synchronized Skating categories which accommodate skaters at any age and skill level.

Synchronized skating has grown in popularity around the world and Canada is considered a world-leader in this discipline. In 2000 the first ever World Synchronized Skating Championships were hosted in the United States. Canada’s black ice captured a silver medal at the inaugural event. In 2003, Skate Canada was proud to host the World Synchronized Skating Championships in Ottawa, Ontario. Then in 2009, Nexxice brought home Canada’s first gold medal in the discipline of Synchronized Skating from the ISU World Synchronized Skating Championships in Zagreb, Croatia.

In Canada there is one event stream of Synchronized Skating and teams may register for the season in the following levels:

• Beginner I
• Beginner II
• Elementary
• Juvenile
• Pre-Novice
• Novice
• Intermediate
• Open
• Junior
• Senior
• Adult I
• Adult II
• Adult III

Specific technical requirements have been determined for each level based on skill development and age restrictions. There are no test prerequisites to participate on any level of Synchro team.

Regional Synchronized Skating Championships

The Regional Synchronized Skating Championships are held annually in five regions across the country. Each Region is made up of Sections specific to their geographical location. The Atlantic Region includes the New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador Sections. There is no qualification process to enter the Regional Synchronized Skating events, however, a qualification round may be held if the number of entries warrants it. Regional events are held in late January to early February of each year.

The Regional events provide a developmental and competitive experience for synchronized skating teams at all levels. The final result in each Region shall determine the teams eligible to enter the equivalent National qualifying competition at the Novice, Intermediate, Open, Junior and Senior levels.

Adult Synchronized Skating

Skate Canada’s SynchroSkate program offers adult skaters the opportunity to participate in the discipline as well. With three adult categories, skaters of all skill levels and experience may join a team and compete at various club, interclub, invitational and regional competitions.

Since the discipline of Synchronized Skating is included in the Skate Canada Adult Figure Skating Championships, adult teams also have the opportunity to compete at the national level at this invitational event.