The Beaver Valley Skating Club (BVSC) held its annual lap-a-thon and simulated competition at the Beaver Valley Arena on Friday.
Close to 50 young skaters circled the ice doing lap after lap to raise funds for the club, which has seen its numbers grow again this year.
Following the lap-a-thon, Star skaters participated in the simulated competition under the watchful eye of coach Liz Iannone and local judges to prepare for the West Kootenay Invitational figure skating competition in Castlegar this weekend.
The simulation will see beginner and novice figure skaters perform the various elements with the evaluators offering constructive advice on how to improve each skate.
The scenario has also proven a good way to get rid of the pre-skate jitters, and to make sure skaters are familiar with protocol and ready when it comes time to perform.
Skaters will compete in free-skate, interpretive, elements, and dance at the Castlegar Rec Complex at the event, which starts Friday and goes until Sunday. Over 100 skaters are expected to compete from B.V., Castlegar, Rossland, Invermere, Cranbrook, Elkford, Fernie, Kimberley, Sparwood, and Vernon.
The BVSC is also getting primed for its special Christmas performance called “Once Upon a December.” Show time will be Friday, Dec. 18, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Admission is $5, children under five are free.