Adrenaline February 2010

www.adrenalinereginasports.com 1

Regina’s Olympians

Sask Winter Games

CraigRichardson

February2010

Celis Taekwon-Do

ADRENALINE Regina Sports Feb 20102

Best


February Features

04 Welcome

05 Cougar Cheerleading Team

08 Sports PersonalityGreg Mayer

12 Celis Taekwon-Do

15 The Saskatchewan Winter Games

16 Where to...Get Away, at Elk Ridge Resort

20 Focus On...Alpine Racing

22 Event Calendar

TABLE OF CONTENTS

18 Forever & TodayMargie SandisonThe time and talent Margie Sandison has put into figure skating makes her legendary. From the Wascana Winter Club to judging today, Sandison’s life has been shaped by figure skating.

10 Get to KnowCraig RichardsonCraig Richardson has spent the past four seasons with the Regina Capitals. This year, as captain, he’s ready to lead his team to victory.

6 Lucas MakowskyWhen Lucas Makowsky laces up his skates at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, he’ll be representing his hometown of Regina in addition to his country.


The excitement of Christmas is over and we settle in to wait for spring. While we wait, there are many things going on in Regina that will make the winter go by faster – and perhaps even help us appreciate the season a bit more.

The 2010 IIHF World Junior Tournament held in Saskatchewan in December and January showcased what hockey here is all about. Both Regina and Saskatoon showed tremendous support for all nations involved – with the exception of perhaps Team USA. The gold medal game may have been a heartbreaker, but we’d like to congratulate Regina’s own, Jordan Eberle, on a job well done. He showed his talent throughout the tournament, and shone when he made the game exciting with his pair of goals late in the gold medal game.

Now it’s time to cheer on a different Team Canada – the Olympic team. The Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics begin February 12th, and we’re ready to cheer. We’ve talked to Lucas Makowsky of Regina, who will be representing the country on the long track speed skating team.

With all the excitement nation-wide, we have to be sure to remember what’s going on right here in Regina. Our website will take you through all of the sports, teams, and leagues going on in our city.

Celis Taekwon-Do is our feature story this month. Taekwon-Do is a discipline that works both the body and mind, and the Celis family is a perfect example of how Taekwon-Do builds relationships and strengthens the body, the mind, and the family.

Lastly – don’t be scared of the cold! Get out there and become involved in whatever sport or recreation you’re interested in – either taking part or cheering on our teams.

Cheer hard,

FROM THE EDITORAdrenaline: Regina Sports

Issue 5: February 2010

Published by: Adrenaline: Regina Sports

Editor-in-Chief: Julie Folk

Administration Manager: Allie Folk

Sales & Marketing: Ashley Kasdorf

Contributors: Christeen Jesse, Maurice Laprairie, Phillipe Riopel, Martin Zacharias, Mark Derry

Printing: Impact Printers

Distribution: Canada Post

ISSN: 1920-4698

Contact:Adrenaline: Regina Sports(306) [email protected]

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Website: www.adrenalinereginasports.com

Cover photo: Maurice LaprairieCover design: Jay Roach/AdSpark

Creative Direction : Jay Roach/AdSpark

Copyright covers all contents of this magazine. No part of the publication may be re-used or copied without the expressed written consent of Adrenaline: Regina Sports.

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Flips, tricks, tosses, dances, pyramids, gymnastics – a combination that results in a thrilling performance

and an extreme sport. And, for the University of Regina Cheerleading Team, a silver medal at the University and Open National Cheerleading Championships.

“Cheerleading is fast-paced, high-flying, gravity-defying, and exhilarating!” said second-year cheerleader Trelle Burdeniuk. “There was nothing like that moment at nationals after we did our routine bang on. The sound of the applause, the crowd screaming, and the feeling that our team had accomplished something amazing was unforgettable. No one can take away that feeling.”

Last year the U of R Cheerleading Team took the gold in their division of small co-ed. This year the team is made up entirely of female athletes, so they went into the all-girl division. The competition had two runs. In the first run, the U of R had a couple of errors, but in the second run, they hit it perfectly, with the highest scoring run in their division, resulting in second place.

“You have to hit it when you step on the floor,” said head coach Thomas Rath. “In the first run, it was the first experience for a lot of our athletes to get used to (the pressure of performing), and in the second run it showed the talent we have at the university and what they’re capable of. ”

The national competition was the team’s first collegiate competition of the season. After tryouts in April, the team participates in camps throughout the summer. In August they begin their practice season, building for the U of R Rams games they perform at. Then in September they started building their competitive routine, which they use throughout the season.

“The showy routines you’re always going to hit it, and you’re confident because you just want to wow the audience,” said Rath of the differences between the routines. “You save the hard stuff for competitive... one’s harder, tiring, faster, and one’s more showy, spectator-friendly, and fun.”

Burdeniuk, a third on the team, said performing is her favourite part of the sport.

“Our routine is definitely a crowd-pleaser with lots of high basket tosses, pyramids, gymnastics, dancing, and lifting skills – something for everyone,” she said. “It’s immense pressure as months of practice and training come down to two and a half minutes on the competition floor. Unlike other sports that have multiple games and chances to prove themselves, cheerleading is more of an all-or-nothing sport.”

Cheerleading is becoming more popular and recognized here on the prairies. The University of Saskatchewan team was also at nationals – in a different category – and the two teams were excited to support one another.

“I think it’s definitely picked up over the years,” said Rath. “Four or five years ago, there wasn’t much of a presence in Saskatchewan. What has helped a lot is the Saskatchewan Roughriders getting the stunt team. Having that in the public forum has brought a new life to the sport. There are really three aspects to it: dance, gymnastics, and the acrobatic part. And we combine all three.”

The U of R Cheerleading Team will be at the Cougar basketball games on Feb. 12th. They will also be competing at the Alberta Cheerleading Association Championships in the West Edmonton Mall, and at the University of Regina Charity Cheer on March 6th. Come out and support the team, and learn what cheerleading is all about.

Cheeringto silver

The University of Regina

cheerleading team performs a

pyramid at nationals.

Courtesy of Mark Derry.


When Lucas Makowsky steps up to the line, he clears his thoughts

and focuses on what’s ahead of him.

He blocks out screaming fans, nerves, and the thoughts of others racing next to him. Then he skates with his heart to the finish line. His career has been the same – a focus on the future and a dedication to getting it done. The upcoming Olympics will be the biggest competition he’s faced, but he’s excited and looking forward to the challenge.

“It’s pretty incredible,” said Makowsky. “It’s something I’ve looked forward to for the past couple of years... I’m very happy and excited.”

Makowsky will not only have all of Canada cheering him on as he competes in the 1500m, 5000m, and team pursuit races with the Canadian Speed Skating Team; he will also have Regina rooting for him all the way. Since the Canadian Trials in Calgary in early January, at which Makowsky not only qualified for the Olympic team but also won his distances and set personal bests, he has received more support from his hometown than he ever would have expected.

“It’s been awesome to read all these messages, and it’s pretty uplifting when you’re able to get messages day after day leading up to a big competition,” said Makowsky. Learning to speed skate in Saskatchewan is something that has helped Makowsky along the way. From when he was six years old to high school graduation, he skated with the Regina Speed Skating Club, as did his brother, Mykola.

“The biggest thing I’ve taken from training back in Saskatchewan was being able to tough out the cold winter days outdoors at the oval at Mount Pleasant,” said Makowsky, “being able to get out when it’s -20, -30, and colder. To be willing to go through practices like that, to improve and to see where you can get, has made me a tougher cookie. Through that I was able to strengthen my dedication and ability to fight through whatever I need to succeed.”

After high school, Makowsky moved to Calgary to further his training as well as to attend the University of

Calgary, where he is taking a double major in engineering and economics – a combination that requires a lot of time management, priority setting, and focus on goals.

Makowsky has steadily progressed to the point he is at today. Four years ago he thought the 2014 Olympics were more of a realistic goal to strive for. Then his progressions grew and he began looking towards 2010.

“I knew it was possible,” said Marcel Lacroix, who has coached Makowksy for over two years. “I’ve been coaching for a very long time and I’ve seen many athletes at the early stages of development. I could see Lucas would be one of those skaters who could make a big jump in a fast way... He’s dedicated to the sport in a way that he puts everything into it. He’s a professional athlete in every sense of the word... You can be passionate about your sport, but passion is not the ticket to a performance. Passion is just part of the puzzle. He’s very passionate about what he does, but with passion comes the professionalism he brings.”

Makowsky was ready to set better times and knew he could do it. At the Salt Lake City World Cup in December, he was on pace for a strong time but fell with two laps to go. At the World Cup in Hamar, he took the silver medal in the 1500m. To skate his personal best

Lucas Makowskystepping up to the line

Lucas Makowsky at the Salt Lake City World Cup. Photo by Martin Zacharias

Makowsky (in front) with Steven Elm and Mathieu Giroux. Photo by Martin Zacharias


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at the trials was a good sign, which he did on the second day of the 5000m.

“It wasn’t the easiest race for me physically, but I was able to find what I needed to dig deep for the last five laps or so to make sure I was going to perform like I needed to,” said Makowsky. “I don’t know if I was being too hard on myself or just wanting to do my best, but once I saw my name on the leaderboard, it put a smile on my face.”

Makowsky has progressed particularly in the 1500m, but he’s looking forward to each race at the Olympic level. He has a slightly different approach for the Olympic Games, but he’d like to focus on maintaining the physical and mental preparations that have worked for him in past races.

“To go to the line calm and knowing what you want to do has been very important,” said Makowsky. “You’re going to have your best race when you’re able to focus on the right things, and sometimes that means you won’t be thinking much at all.”

While concentrating on his own races, Makowsky will be enjoying and absorbing the atmosphere of the Olympic Games, taking in the new experiences. As for his results, as long as he does his best, he’ll be satisfied with his finish.

Lacroix has the same philosophy for Makowsky. He’s looking for

him to compete well at these Olympics and into the rest of his career.

“My objective is for Lucas to have the race of his life – the best race he’s ever going to be able to produce at that point, in terms of execution, physical preparation, everything,” said Lacroix. “But he’s just starting. With the dedication he has, the professionalism he acts with, and how humble he is, we’re going to see amazing things from him. The future is bright for Lucas.”

“As long as I perform my best race for where I’m at in my career, I’m going to come out happy,” said Makowsky. “Whether it puts me on the podium or I’m in 20th place, as long as I know I performed my best and did

all I could to prepare myself, I’m going to come out smiling.”

Regina’s Olympic connections

In addition to Lucas Makowsky, Regina has a few other athletes to cheer for.

Ryan Getzlaf, a forward with the Anaheim Ducks, will be playing with the Olympic Men’s Hockey Team, Ben Hebert is the lead with Kevin Martin’s curling team, and Meghan Simister will be representing Canada on the luge team. Watch for updates on how they do at www.adrenalinereginasports.com.

Look for other Saskatchewan athletes on various teams, and cheer hard for Team Canada!

Far left: Denny Morrison (left), Lucas Makowsky (middle) and Mathieu Giroux (right) on the podium with silver medals at the Calgary World Cup.Photo by Phillipe Riopel


SPORTS PERSONALITIES

Greg Mayer is technically an athletic therapist; but actually he is so

much more than that.

Mayer is part of the Pats’ management team, and he’s also a friend to the players. At the same time, he looks after the team, making sure they are ready for the game – injury-free, strong, and equipped to play.

Mayer has been the athletic therapist for the Regina Pats since the 2003-2004 season. He was also the athletic therapist in 2010 and equipment manager in 2001 for Canada’s World Junior team.

“At this level, I’m kind of the jack-of- all-trades and the master of none,” laughed Mayer. “Basically for me, as the head trainer, I oversee everything. The injuries and the conditioning, those are my passions and the things I really oversee. But it can be anything from one day I’ll order all of the equipment to being the den mother, making sure everybody in here is organized and ready to go... Throughout the day

you’re wearing lots of different hats. You have injury time, conditioning time – practices and games are actually easiest because in a game I’m basically just standing on the bench watching the game, and then if somebody gets hurts or needs something, I’m called upon.”

Mayer watches the game with an interest in how his team is playing, but he also tries to stay a bit more detached than a regular fan. He watches games differently, noticing how players fall, how they go into the boards, or if they have injured themselves. But every now and then he does get a little excited.

“When (Jordan) Eberle scored that fifth goal to tie it (at the World Juniors), I jumped on him on the bench – the first time in awhile I’ve gotten a little excited,” said Mayer, who applied and was chosen as the athletic therapist for the team this year. “The World Junior I did in Moscow was a great experience, but here I was able to do it at home, in Saskatchewan... we were in a rink with 15,000 people cheering for Canada.

It was a different level that I’ve never really been to before... It was a phenomenal experience and I’d like to do it again.”

Mayer’s journey to the Regina Pats and the World Junior team began in Kelowna, BC. Mayer had played hockey and football, and was interested in exercising and working out. He went back to school with a focus on strength and conditioning, and began volunteering with sports teams in Vancouver, moving into the sports injury side of things.

He sent out his resume to WHL teams, and was hired by the Moose Jaw Warriors in 1997. He met his wife, Shannon, there and they eventually

moved to Regina where Mayer joined the Pats.

“The first time I walked in here (to the Pats dressing room) I thought somebody was going to jump me with a bat!” said Mayer. “But within a couple of weeks they’d decided I was OK.”

Today’s players appreciate all Mayer does for them – on the ice and off.

“Greg is the perfect guy for his role,” said Garrett Mitchell, who has strength-trained with Mayer for five years. “He’s there to push you; at the same time he’s there to help you out. The rewards from it are awesome.”

Mitchell said doing strength and conditioning with Mayer has helped his strength in battles on the ice, as well as

“The injuries and the conditioning, those are my

passions.... At this level, I’m kind of the jack -of- all-

trades and the master of none.”

- Greg Mayer

Mayer at the 2010 IIHF World Juniors. Courtesy of Hockey Canada

Mayer of the Dressing Room


his conditioning and endurance. When it comes to the injury side of Mayer’s job, Mitchell trusts Mayer to get him back on the ice as soon as he can, safely.

“Greg is unbelievable at what he does,” said Mitchell. “He can be the strength and conditioning guy one day, then step out of that role and go into massage therapy and rehab...Greg’s kind of the boss around the room. It’s his dressing room, and he’s very much a perfectionist in what he does.”

And Mayer enjoys it all.

“Being into physical fitness, I like seeing improvements in people,” said Mayer. “When you have people telling you, ‘I feel better on the ice, my stride feels more powerful, I have more balance,’ it’s a good feeling. You’re able to take someone and make a little bit of improvement. And then on the

rehab side of things, you’re dealing with athletes and they’re wanting to get better.”

Most of the athletes Mayer works with are driven to get back on the ice, and sometimes he needs to hold them back a bit to help them look to their long-term health. There are others who need a bit of a push, but Mayer said whatever the athlete needs, he’s always had great support from coaches he’s worked with, giving him the final say on the health of the player.

Common injuries Mayer sees in hockey include separated shoulders, concussions, and soft tissue injuries,. Then there are the few out-of-the-ordinary.

“We were in Swift Current and a player was in a fight and got his hand stepped on – basically severed his thumb down

to the last tendon,” said Mayer. “He came down to the bench and his thumb was pointing down towards his elbow. I thought, ‘this is going to be a long career if everything’s like this.’”

Mayer has been presented with opportunities elsewhere, but hasn’t pursued them. He might if the right job came along in the NHL and it was ideal for himself and his family; but he feels here, in Regina, is everything he’s wanted. He and Shannon have two daughters, Joselyn, 7, and Samantha, 4. With his work with the Regina Pats and Team Canada, there’s nothing else Mayer could ask for – with one exception.

“I just wish they didn’t have the football team here,” said Mayer, a BC Lions fan. “It’s hard wearing another colour and I take my abuse in the stadium. But Regina is an absolutely phenomenal place to live.”

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GET TO KNOW

Craig RichardsonOn the ice, my role is to put the puck in the net and make plays.

ARS: Do you enjoy being a leader?

CR: It’s new to me. I’m getting used to it. Last year I was the assistant captain; this year I’m the captain. I enjoy what I’m doing, but I do have some weaknesses to improve on.

ARS: What do you enjoy the most about playing for the Capitals and playing the sport of hockey?

CR: It’s my hometown. I knew previous players who played here, and they said it was a fantastic experience. It’s always been a good organization to play for. It’s Canada. It is our national sport, and I’ve been involved with it for 15 years now. I’ve always loved the game.

ARS: What are your plans for hockey after this year?

CR: My brother Chris played for the Capitals for two years and now he’s playing on the Balgonie Bisons with my older brother, Chad. Hopefully I could find a spot with Balgonie and play with them, but again, you never know what could happen. That’s probably one of my goals, to play with both of my brothers.

ARS: What are you doing in your education and career?

CR: I’m on an eight-month work

Craig Richardson’s career with the Regina Capitals has been everything he ever wanted it to be. Now, he’d like to cap it with a successful season in his last year as a 21 year old. In his fourth year with the team, Richardson is now the captain and is ready to lead his team to a big ending.

Adrenaline: Regina Sports: How would you describe your career with the Capitals?

Craig Richardson: It’s gone pretty well; fairly close to what I expected. Ever since I started with the team, we haven’t placed as well as I would have liked. But it’s been fun; you build a lot of relationships, and this year I think we’ll give it a good run for its money. We have quite a few returning players and the new players we do have are comfortable, and producing. Everybody is gelling together.

ARS: Were the Capitals a team you always wanted to play for?

CR: It was an option. I was originally thinking about playing with the Pilot Butte Storm (the Capitals’ rivals), but Leo MacDonald, who was our coach four years ago, called me and persuaded me to come to the Capitals. I am happy with the decision.

ARS: What is your role on and off the ice?

CR: This year I am the team captain. I’m there to inspire the young ones, get them going, and make sure as a leader the team is on the right track.


term with Imperial Tobacco. I’m in Business Administration, majoring in accounting and specialising in finance, with one more year of schooling left. Initially I wanted to work for an accounting firm, but as of right

now, I’m enjoying my experience with Imperial, so you never know.

ARS: What do you think about Regina as a sporting community and why do you like playing hockey here?

CR: Regina’s huge in sports – always has been, always will be.

ARS: Do you have any hockey memories that stand out for you?

CR: One of the tournaments, when I was in Pee Wee, we were in the B final and I ended up getting four goals. One was to tie, and then I got the winning goal. I was expecting to get the Game MVP and it went to my other buddy. I was quite hurt after that! But it’s all good.

ARS: When you were growing up playing hockey, did you always know you wanted to continue to play?

CR: Always. It’s always been hockey and golf in my family. When I was younger, my friends and I played hockey outside every day. With golf, I’ve slowed down the past year or two but I love it.

ARS: How much time commitment does it take to play with the Capitals?

CR: We practice two to three times a week, and then from one to three games a week. It all depends on your school schedule if it conflicts. Last semester, both my night classes were on days we had practice, so I had to sacrifice

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one for the other. That’s pretty much the only time we can get together as a team because everyone has other commitments.

ARS: Have you found juggling school, work, and hockey a challenge?

CR: It is a challenge, but at the same time it’s nice to get away from the academic side of it. Going to school for a full day, it helps relieve some stress, you can see your buddies, and go play the hockey that you love. Some days you do dread it but for the most part it’s great!

ARS: What do you expect for the end of this season with the Capitals?

CR: Playoffs start in March. Last year we lost in the first round to Fort Qu’Appelle/Fort Knox. We’d like to make it a bit farther than that. I think we can do it. We’ve got a pretty good team, great goaltending, and we’ve got some good leaders – Dana Friesen, Mike Brodziak, awesome guys, awesome leaders, who can put the puck in the net.

Photos courtesy of Maurice Laprairie


Taekwon-Do is a way of life for the Celis family.

Brothers Washington and Boris brought their passion with them to Canada in 1977, and they’ve been growing it and sharing it ever since. Today, their families practice martial arts together, building their relationships as well as developing mentally and physically in the discipline of Taekwon-Do.

“Martial arts is more than just kicking and punching,” said Washington. “We teach a lot of discipline, respect, and confidence along with life skills that are very important to everyone. The Celis Taekwon-Do Academy is an educational martial arts facility and is our second home.”

Washington and Boris began five years

ago when they combined their over 80 years of teaching into the academy, where Andres Celis, Washington’s oldest son, is also a head instructor.

“My brother and I always had the dream of getting the family involved,” said Washington. “We thought having a home of our own would be the best way of teaching our children and our families.”

The love of Taekwon-Do has been passed down from Oscar Celis, the father of Washington and Boris. He had a love of boxing and martial arts, and shared that passion with his sons.

The Celis family immigrated to Canada from Argentina in December of 1977. They were originally from Chile, but had lived in Buenos Aires for over two

years before coming to Canada for a better life.

When Boris and Washington arrived in Canada, martial arts were not as common as in South America. They found Taekwon-Do, and enjoyed everything about it.

“Most people in South America begin martial arts for self defence,” explained Boris. “And then you learn what it is all about – it is a discipline, a way of life – and you stay involved... Essentially you can become a great martial artist

Living Taekwon- Do

“We thought having a home of our own would be the best way of teaching our children

and our families.”- Washington Celis

Photo (from left to right): (top) Washington, Sandro, Sandra, Andres, Barbara, Lorenzo, Boris. (Bottom): Raquel, Gabriela. Not pictured: Daniel


physically, but the mental part will always stay. Your body will age, but the mental part will stay.”

Taekwon-Do is a discipline for any age. The Celis’ children grew up with Taekwon-Do, and followed in the footsteps of their parents. There are now 11 members of the family practicing Taekwon-Do. Barbara and Sandra, Washington’s and Boris’s wives, are black belts (second and first degree), as are Washington’s sons Andres (third degree), Sandro (second degree), and Lorenzo (first degree). Their nephew Daniel is a blue belt, and Boris’s daughter Gabriela is a black stripe and Raquel is a blue stripe. Soon the entire family will be black belts.

Washington is a sixth degree black belt as well as the provincial technical director. A pioneer in the formation of the Saskatchewan GTF (Global Taekwon-Do Federation),

Washington is an internationally certified black belt and examiner with ITF (International Taekwon-Do Federation) and numerous certifications and Taekwon-Do credentials. Boris is a fifth degree black belt, and a former National and North American champion. Boris and Washington are the lead instructors at the Celis Taekwon-Do Academy; the school is truly a family-run operation, as their families become involved in teaching Taekwon-Do as well.

Washington’s sons began Taekwon-Do at four years old and it has become a

way of life for them. Boris’s daughters grew up watching their cousins compete, and began as soon as they started walking. It’s not often an entire family is or can be involved in a sport or discipline together. This is the unique thing about the Celis family.

“Martial arts can be a lot of fun,” said Washington. “First of all, it bonds us together. We learn together. We practice together. We teach together. We even socialize together. What is better than doing martial arts together?”

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Celis Taekwon-Do has many different programs for different levels, including Little Ninjas, an introductory program, a black belt club for anyone dedicated to becoming a black belt, a leadership program for those who would like to teach, and a family program.

“When the parents train with their children, it bonds them together in a common goal,” said Washington. “When you’re practicing life skills and leadership skills in a family environment, it’s very easy to bond.”

The Celis family is an example of how training as a family can bring it together.

“When your children have the same passion, everyone is happy together, and at the academy, it’s a place where we can all meet and release some steam together,” said Washington.

The family is just as committed to training the mental aspect as the physical, for the mental attitude makes the physical possible. Part of the training includes inspirational talks, and the teaching of life skills. Their mission is to make students more successful in life through the practice of Taekwon-Do by teaching martial arts as a complete discipline of mind, body, and spirit to develop happier, healthier, and safer people. They strive to produce individuals who are successful, positive, respected, and contributing members of society.

“We essentially use martial arts at our school as a tool to help people; the rest comes together,” said Washington. “We have a lot to offer to people, and that’s why we opened the school. When you have all the right tools, we feel we can make a big difference in people’s lives.”

And it all starts with their own family, creating the environment that welcomes others in. With a shared passion, the Celis family is an example of how the discipline of Taekwon-Do is truly a way of life.

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IN REGINA

Regina athletes to the Saskatchewan Winter Games

There’s something unique about the Saskatchewan Winter Games.

They are a rare opportunity to compete alongside 15 other sports at the same competition, providing new experiences and new friends.

“Most people say it’s a really good experience and that everything you get to see is pretty amazing because it’s the best of Saskatchewan in that sport

at that level. So it’s pretty cool,” said Alexa Kupchyk, who will be competing at the Winter Games in figure skating.

Alexa and her brother, Evan, will both be at the Winter Games; Evan in speed skating. It shows the diversity of the Games and the different experiences each athlete can take with him or her.

“It should be fun to watch others and get the experience out of it,” said Evan. “My goal is really to improve my skating and go to the Canadians (the speed skating national championship), but this came up and I didn’t want to miss it.”

Alexa, 11, and Evan, 14, will be competing in their sports on different days, as the Games run in two halves, from Feb. 14th to 17th, and from Feb. 17th to 20th. The Kupchyks are both on Team Regina, one of nine districts of the province participating in the Winter Games, which are held every four years; this year in Moose Jaw.

Each sport qualifies its athletes in different ways. For example, Evan raced his distances of 500m, 1000m, 1500m, and 3K against other Regina athletes to qualify. Alexa was part of a trial competition in Moose Jaw, where she won her level to qualify. Team sports usually have camps to qualify athletes, while most individual sports run competitions.

This is also the first year of the “sport fill policy,” as Regina Chef du Mission Tyler Jones explained. “If one particular district cannot fill all of the spots on their team, the districts who do have more athletes that did not make the team can take the remaining

athletes. The kids go with the district they are from, but if they win a medal, their points don’t count towards the Games Flag trophy.”

Which sports will be at each Games is determined every four years through an application and review process. Most are based on the description of how each Provincial Sport Governing Body would develop the sport in each district leading to maximum participation. It’s changed the focus of the games to ensure athletes are given the ability to excel to a higher level of competition. That’s one thing the Games are truly about – preparing athletes for the future.

“It’s another step up, and gets you to train harder,” said Evan, who was the 2008 provincial speed skating short track champion and is looking to compete at higher levels.

Alexa would like to compete well at the Winter Games and progress to the international level. While the uniqueness of multiple sports at one competition is a bonus for the athletes involved, it also makes for some tough decisions. Alexa is also a gymnast but decided to focus on figure skating.

Regina has won the past four Games Point trophies at the Winter Games. The mission of Regina Sport is to facilitate the athletes, the registration, the uniforms, the code of conduct, the logistics, and the accommodations. But of course the team would also like to do well and come prepared to compete.

“I really wanted to go,” said Alexa. “I’m looking forward to it as a new experience.”

Alexa Kupchyk

Evan KupchykPhotos by

Maurice Laprairie


Slicing through boreal forest paths on cross country skis, trekking over

snow-covered fairways, skating on a cleared pond with a magnificent lodge in the background, and sliding down a hill in a beautiful clearing, all followed by hot chocolate in front of a roaring fire and a massage and soak in a Vichy tub.

All of this is possible in the winter months at Elk Ridge Resort, the perfect getaway from Regina.

I had the chance to experience the resort and all it had to offer; it was far more than I ever imagined.

We drove to Elk Ridge soon after Christmas, going from flat prairies to the forested terrain up north. The drive was comfortable and relaxing.

The activities available at Elk Ridge – in particular cross country skiing,

snowshoeing, skating, tobogganing, snowmobiling, and dogsledding - a little of something for everyone. Having never done any of the above except skating and a bit of tobogganing here and there, I was looking forward to trying a few new sports.

We only had a few days to get away, but a long stay would be wonderful, for rest and relaxation in addition to having fun on Elk Ridge’s huge outdoor playground.

The people who work and live at Elk Ridge truly love everything it has to offer. There’s the avid photographer who snowshoes to find hidden, inaccessible places, the group of guys who regularly play

shinny on the ice, and the fun lovers who can’t get enough of the toboggan hill. They all appreciate every little thing Elk Ridge has to offer – in the summer, when the golf course draws a full house, and in the winter, when Elk Ridge shines as a snowy escape.

When we arrived, the lodge itself was enough to make the five-hour drive worth the trip. There’s an elegant feeling, that at the same time makes you feel comfortable to sit and relax

Where to.... get away

to Elk Ridge Resort, a Winter Oasis


in front of the huge, roaring fireplace that spreads warmth throughout the building.

Arriving at night, our first day’s activity was in the fitness centre, which we used to make us feel better as we took in every course afterwards at the Copper Ridge Restaurant, which overlooks the “backyard” of the lodge – the shinny ice, the oval for a skate, and the curling rink.

The next day was a full one. We started with cross country skiing – a new experience, but something that anyone can quickly get the hang of. Elk Ridge is a cross country skier’s dream, with ski-specific trails winding their way around the golf course, sheltered by the huge evergreens on each side. After only about five minutes, we stopped to take in the deer gazing at us from the side of the trail.

After lunch and a warm-up, we laced up our skates in the gazebo next to the rink out back. Cleared off each morning, the oval surrounds a rink complete with nets. Around you is a winter paradise – the forest borders the property, with the lodge looming in front. The Elk Ridge golf clubhouse transforms in the winter, and rents skis, snowshoes, and hockey sticks, so you don’t have to worry about piling the car full on your way there. There’s even a cleared off curling rink, with rocks and brooms waiting for anyone to give it a shot.

There was one more thing I wanted to do that day – hit the toboggan hill, an adventure I had already heard a lot about. We found the hill at a curve in the Whiskey Jack hiking trail. The trail opened up into a secluded clearing. At the top of the hill was a shack with a fire pit in the centre. A second shack at the top held various sizes of inner tubes. I hauled one out and down I went – and

what a ride! It was a child’s dream, and a lot of fun for an adult too.

The end of the day included a few runs down the waterslide and a hot tub in the lodge. There are also endless opportunities in the Salacia Spa to rejuvenate in any way you choose. The evening was spent watching a hockey game in the Ridge Lounge with a few other sports fans.

The next day we had an early getaway, but first there was one more thing to try – snowshoeing. I strapped on the snowshoes and started walking down Elk Ridge’s first fairway. It was awesome – a walk through the snow made easy.

For the more adventurous, there are also opportunities to snowmobile or take a ride with the sled dogs. It’s all there – everything you could want in a winter oasis, at Elk Ridge Resort.


FOREVER & TODAY

Margie Sandisona perfect 10

Photo courtesy of the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame and Museum.

Margie Sandison’s figure skating

life may be close to a

perfect score.

She hasn’t given out many perfect scores – only five throughout 50 years of judging figure skating. But each one has been memorable, and very special.

While she saw the world throughout her career as a figure skating judge, Sandison was born in Regina and the city has always been her home. It was where her figure skating career began, and where she still remains active in the sport today.

“Judging has shaped my life in many ways,” said Sandison. “Figure skating was just a part of my life when I was younger; it stayed with me and I thoroughly enjoy it.”

Sandison began skating when she was about five years old, following in the footsteps of her sister, Joan, who was a competitive skater and later a professional. They began at the Wascana Winter Club, which was also active in badminton and curling.

“I just started to skate, continued on, and it became a love of mine,” said Sandison. “I lived on Regina Avenue, so (the Wascana Winter Club) was just across the creek. It became a second home; it’s where all my friends were. We skated morning, noon, and night.... We spent a lot of time at the Wascana Winter Club. It was a lifestyle.”

Sandison skated up to the Western Canadian Levels. When she was 16, she began judging at a local level. Her father, Bruce Penfold, was a judge as well, so figure skating was a part of Sandison’s family life, and judging became an extension of it.

Sandison began with trial judging, wrote exams, and went on to become the first Triple Gold judge in Saskatchewan, as well as the first Canadian Level Dance and International Single and Pair judge from the province. Sandison was judging at the national level by 1969, and would go on to become the Special Advisor to the Chair at the 1984 Canadian Championships, the Technical Advisor at the 1986 and 1990 Canadian Championships, and Facilities Chair and Vice Chair for the Canadian Precision Skating Championships in Regina in 1992.


Sandison was invited to judge at the international level in 1981 – an assignment she was honoured to receive. She has judged as well as served as a team leader to the Canadian figure skating team at competitions around the world.

With a love of travel, Sandison has seen many countries, meeting a variety people and experiencing different cultures and ways of life. But there are a few experiences that stand out.

“I was in Berlin when the wall came down,” said Sandison. “Everything was a complete uproar. My husband (CKCK radio and TV anchor Johnny Sandison) was trying to get a hold of me and the phone lines were down... but that was one of my most memorable times.... I enjoyed every country I went to, because I took it upon myself to get to know something about the country and the people. We were busy in rinks all the time, but we tried to show the children what the country and the people were like.”

Sandison’s career has been rewarding in many ways. She judged the first triple axel in Canadian competition, and has been able to do different things such as begin programs for mentally challenged children to learn to skate, and chair figure skating events in Saskatchewan. She also continued to recreationally lace up her own skates until about three years ago.

Karen Howard is an international judge today, and said Sandison was a wonderful mentor.

“To have that many years of dedication to one sport makes her legendary,” said Howard. “You don’t end up with that many people who stay within one sport and continue to contribute for that long. That would be the thing that I respect the most about her.”

Sandison judged singles, pairs, and dance, although she has always particularly enjoyed the singles competitions. The method and scoring system of judging has significantly changed over the years, but Sandison said few people realize how much emotion comes from the judges when scoring the programs. The five perfect scores mentioned? Toller Cranston received the first, then Brian Orser and Kurt Browning were each the recipients twice.

“The first one I gave, I thought I was going to be sick. It was something within me about halfway through his program; I thought, ‘I’m going to give him a six, and I might also throw up. People don’t realize the judges in those days really were affected in that way.”

Sandison’s life truly has been shaped through figure skating. Her education background is as a lab technician, but she soon found she didn’t have the time to work and travel. When she was married and had her children, Patty and David, she focused on judging figure skating. It provided her the opportunity to meet people on the local, national, and international levels.

Just last year she was part of a small reunion when the Canadian Championships were held in Saskatoon.

“We had a reunion of six girls who had skated in 1951, in Saskatoon, against each other in competitions,” said Sandison. “We met again during the Canadians and had a reunion. Fifty years later we were back at the same hotel, the Bessborough, where we had stayed as kids.”

The association with people is one of the reasons Sandison has stayed in figure skating for so long. Today, she still judges local competitions as well as serves in other roles, such as Technical Representative at the recent provincial championships. She also works in sales and volunteers when she can. She’s had different jobs throughout the years, but always somewhere that made her happy.

“I also had an interesting life with my husband because he was in the media, and we did a lot of things I may not have had the opportunity to do otherwise,” said Sandison. “I’ve really enjoyed what I’ve done in my life and the association of people who I’ve met. And I’ve been very happy in everything I have done.”

And Sandison will continue building on her perfect 10, as figure skating will always be part of who she is – whether she’s skating herself, watching her favourites progress, or judging at any level of competition.

Photo credit Camera One - Regina. Photo courtesy of the Saskatchewan Sports

Hall of Fame and Museum.


FOCUS ON

The snow falls lightly, the wind whips around you, and your skis

cut through the snow on your way down the hill – the perfect way to hit the slopes.

There’s a way to enjoy skiing more often. The Regina Ski Club offers programs for everyone – from youngsters learning to ski to parents looking to coach and athletes looking to race.

“Once you take the initial step, you don’t want to let go,” said Terry Hooper, vice president of the Alpine Race Team and the president of Alpine Saskatchewan.

He added there are major advantages to smaller hills such as shorter runs, meaning more repetition, leading to improvement. Therefore practicing in Saskatchewan means more concentrated training hours.

“With drive and determination, skiers can still advance even when they are starting in Saskatchewan,” he said.

Alpine racers in Saskatchewan utilize seven different Saskatchewan hills for training, with most time spent at Mission Ridge and Table Mountain.

There are four types of alpine races at the competitive level: slalom, giant slalom (GS), super giant slalom (SG), and downhill. Each category has its own course, with differing obstacles, length of runs, and steepness of slopes. Completing the course in the shortest amount of time is the main goal in each type of alpine skiing.

In all slalom categories of alpine racing, skiers must hit every gate (pole) on the run. This is achieved by a maneuver called cross blocking, in which the skiers keep their feet on the outside of the gate, and divert the gate with their arms and shins.

“What you see is the athlete’s feet moving back and forth, while minimizing body movement. It increases their speed,” said Hooper.

Of course skiers don’t jump right into alpine racing; it comes with dedication to the sport. The Regina Alpine Race Team offers two separate programs, the Nancy Greene program and the race team.

Twelve-year-old racer Matt Grain reinforces this with his personal skiing experience as a Regina Alpine Club member.

“I started skiing when I was three,” he said. “My long term goal is to win a gold medal in the Olympics.”

Many members begin here as youth and progress to ski at more competitive levels. The Nancy Greene program begins at five, and youth from six to 13 can participate in the Nancy Greene races. Once individuals catch the ski-fever, many wish to compete at a higher level and the Regina Alpine Race Team is the next step. This program is what Hooper describes as a “full on race program”; youth ages eight to 19 are

Skiing in SaskatchewanBy Christeen Jesse


eligible and this year the club consists of about 20 racers.

One of the newest initiatives for the Regina Alpine Club is the addition of a program for para-alpine skiers. Matt Dean is one of the few alpine racers in Saskatchewan, and just got involved this winter. Dean, 19, was a snowboarder at one time and has always loved winter sports.

“It’s getting out on the hill that you enjoy,” says Dean.

Para-alpine skiers can compete in all four racing categories, but these athletes use a sitting ski; a seat with a shock underneath that attaches to a single ski. Skiers have poles for both arms with small ski blades fastened to the bottom to help with balance.

“If you are not a skier, come to Mission Ridge and try the Nancy Greene program, then maybe one day join the race team,” said Grain.

Both Matt and Mark agree that the club coaches are great, and the people involved in the club are friendly and accommodating.

“I get out and meet other skiers,” said Dean.

Grain believes that one should consider alpine skiing if, “You want to have fun, make new friends, travel, and improve your skiing.”

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How to Alpine Ski:

Although Alpine skiers are members of a team, all races are individual. One can participate in any or all of the four types of racing. The slalom category is highly technical and characterized by short runs with numerous gates. Giant Slalom is very similar to slalom but the course includes dual gates (two poles connected by a panel) and is a faster and longer course. Super Giant Slalom races must be held in the mountains because they require very long runs with infrequent gates. They are the fastest slalom race. The downhill category differs slightly from slalom in that it is very long, extremely fast, and has few gates.

Photos: Opposite page: Morgan Woldo. This page, top: Eden Sampson. Bottom: Matt Dean.

Photos courtesy of the Regina Ski Club.

See reginaalpine.ca for more information on the club, or check them out Feb. 14th to 17th at the 2010 Saskatchewan Winter Games in Moose Jaw.


Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 2

7 pm Red Deer @ Pats

7:30 pmQuakers @

Capitals

3 4

7:30 pmPilot Butte @

Capitals

57 pm

Saskatoon @ Pats

6:15 pmWinnipeg @ WBB

8 pmWinnipeg @ MBB

7 pm MB @ MHockey

67 pm

Kootenay @ Pats

6:30 pmWeyburn @ Rebels

Mahon

7:30 pmPA @ Pat C’s

Sherwood Twin Arena

7

2:30 pmTisdale @ Pat C’s

Sherwood Twin Arenas

8 9

7:30 pmAssiniboia @

Capitals

10

7 pmCalgary @ Pats

8 pmSaskatoon @

Pat C’s

11 126:15 pm

SK @ WBB

7 pmLethbridge @

WHockey

8 pmSK @ MBB

Track @ Queen City Kinsmen Indoor

Classic

13

7 pmLethbridge @

WHockey

Track @ Queen City Kinsmen

Indoor Classic

14

2:15 pmOchapowace @

Capitals

15

7:45 pmCypress @ Capitals

7:15 pmNotre Dame @

Rebels DW Arena

16 17

8 pmYorkton @ Pat C’s

18 19

Alberta @ MHockey

WVB @ Canada West Quarterfinals

Wrestling Canada West

Championships

20

7 pmChilliwack @ Pats

7:30 pmMJ @ Pat C’s

7 pmAlberta @ Mhockey

21

7 pm SK @ WHockey

22 23 24

7 pmVancouver @ Pats

25

Swim CIS Championships

26Swim A CIS

Championships

WHockey Canada West

Semifinals

MBB Canada West Quarterfinals

WBB Canada West Quarterfinals

MVB Canada West Quarterfinals

27

Swim CIS Championships

28

February Event Calendar

Cougar sports legend• WBB - Women’s Basketball• MBB - Men’s Basketball• WVB - Women’s Volleyball• MVB - Men’s Volleyball• MHockey - Men’s Hockey• WHockey - Women’s Hockey• Wrestling - Men’s & Women’s

Home game venues unless otherwise noted:• Pats @ Brandt Centre• Pat Canadians, Rebels, Capitals @ Al Ritchie• Cougar basketball, volleyball, and wrestling @ University of Regina• Cougar hockey @ Twin Arenas


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aPRil 18-24, 2010/ dU 18 aU 24 avRil 2010CO-OPERatORS CENtRE, REgiNa, SaSkatChEwaN

Event Partners / Partenaires de l’événement

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Call: (306) 751-0787email: advertise@adrenalinereginasports.comwww.adrenalinereginasports.com

Photo courtesy of Maurice Laprairie


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Adrenaline February 2010