CANCELLED: 2021 Canadian Tire National Skating Championships & 2021 Skate Canada Cup

OTTAWA, ON: With growing concern for the health and safety of all participants involved in the 2021 Canadian Tire National Skating Championships and the 2021 Skate Canada Cup given the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic across Canada, Skate Canada has made the difficult decision to cancel these events.  The championships were to occur from February 8-14, 2021 in Vancouver, B.C., at the Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre while the 2021 Skate Canada Cup was planned to be a virtual event in replacement of the pre-novice and novice competitions at the 2021 Skate Canada Challenge.

“We are deeply saddened for all athletes, coaches, and supporting individuals who are impacted by this decision and appreciate the incredible efforts to overcome ever-evolving training and access challenges to best prepare athletes for these events,” said Leanna Caron, President, Skate Canada.

The severe level of disruption to training of athletes caused by the pandemic and the evolving and unpredictable restrictions associated with travel and hosting events contributed to the decision. Despite diligence by all involved in securing opportunities for athletes to train, practice and compete this season, the risks associated with hosting the event were deemed too high.

“As we move into a new year, we continue to closely monitor and follow the guidance from the provincial and federal health authorities. Due to the continuous shift in requirements across the country, the inability of our athletes to train due to the closure of ice rinks and the number of participants that would be required to travel, it became clear that it would not be possible to host these events,” said Debra Armstrong, CEO, Skate Canada. “The health and safety of our community is our priority and we thank you all for taking the necessary precautions and doing what you can to limit the spread of COVID-19.”

Skate Canada would like to especially thank our title sponsor, Canadian Tire, for its continuous support and dedication to this event and our sport over the years. Additionally, we are appreciative for the effort and support provided by all our partners, including the local organizing committee – Skate Canada British Columbia-Yukon and event volunteers from across the country who have been part of preparations over the past several months for these events.

“We thank our athletes for continuing to inspire us and look forward to a brighter and prosperous 2021-2022 season,” said Armstrong.