WSD Skate Races: Celebrating 105 Years

For over 100 years, Winnipeg School Division students have come together for a tradition that continues to define winter in our schools. This year, the 105th annual Skate Races brought approximately 375 students in Grades 3 to 6 from 17 WSD schools to Canada Life Centre, where excitement had been building for weeks as schools and students prepped for the big day.Different Ways to Race

Schools chose between two race styles based on students’ experience and skill. The Shuttle Relay challenged teams to complete as many lengths as possible in five minutes, making it ideal for new skaters. The Speed Relay, for more experienced skaters, had teams of four racing four laps as fast as possible, highlighting speed and teamwork. 

The event was brought to life with the support of Speed Skating Manitoba, whose provincial athletes energized the arena with a short track speed skating demonstration, giving students a chance to see high-level racing up close. 

Getting Ready to Skate

For many students, the races were a chance to try something new, and they invested time preparing for them. Grade 5 student Freya, from Harrow School, described her first-time skating experience as “very exciting and fun,” and said she would encourage other schools to try in future editions. 

At Brock Corydon School, students had been counting down all week for the event, and head coach Cody Fjeldsted proudly noted that some students who did not own skates at the start of training were confidently racing by event day.

For seasoned skaters, the day was about friendship and personal growth. Grade 6 student Adera, from Harrow School, who has skated since she was three and also plays with the Assiniboine Park Hockey Association, said the most exciting part was sharing the ice with friends in an iconic venue. “I’m excited to skate with friends at Canada Life Centre,” she said. When asked what advice she would give to someone who might want to join the races next year, she said that practice is what helps people perfect their skills and boost their confidence.

The Power of Movement

Alyson Gysel, WSD's physical and health education support teacher, explains the goal of the Skate Races is “to promote physical activity, healthy living, and positive sport behaviors. Building on what students learn in class, this extra-curricular opportunity allows them to explore skating as a lifelong activity.”

Yooshin Park, physical education teacher at Harrow School, highlights the broader impact these initiatives have for students.

“Skating is something students can later do after school hours. Our school has been practicing on Sundays, and we have invited families to skate together while building a community.” He added that the context of the Winter Olympics happening in February 2026 has made the event even more exciting.

As cheers filled the venue, families supported the young athletes, and teammates celebrated every finish. The 105th Skate Races proved once again that this tradition is about more than speed. It is about belonging, community, and the joy of movement in winter that brings schools together.