“When I step onto the ice, it’s like I put on a suit of armor and I turn into someone else,” says Greg Upshaw, whose figure skating journey began in his 20s and continues today at 64. A creative in all areas of his life, Upshaw discovered skating as a medium that challenges him physically while letting him express himself artistically. His story shows that it’s never too late to learn a new skill, embrace a challenge, or channel your creativity on the ice. 

Finding His Passion

Upshaw’s love for skating was ignited in the 1980s. As a young adult, he was captivated by the performances of Canadian figure skating icons Brian Orser and Kurt Browning. Their artistry and skill planted a seed of curiosity that grew further in 1987, when he attended the Canadian National Championships in Ottawa and experienced the excitement of elite skating live for the first time. 

Around that same time, Upshaw had moved to Ottawa and, like many residents, laced up his skates on the Rideau Canal. What began as a classic Canadian winter pastime quickly evolved. He started attempting jumps and elements he’d seen others perform. Once he felt the thrill of figure skating for himself, he was hooked. 

Through his 20s, he skated on and off, taking lessons and building skills. It wasn’t until his 40s, however, that he committed seriously to the sport. Drawn to jumping high, he focused on mastering technical elements. In 2008, he stepped onto the ice for his first adult national competition in Brampton, Ontario. There, he discovered not just a competitive outlet, but a welcoming community. 

Fostering Community and Connection 

As a man and a person of colour in figure skating, representation is especially important to him. 

“I want to represent and hopefully inspire others,” he said. 

At competitions, Upshaw actively connects with other male skaters, often organizing group photos and sharing them on social media to highlight their presence in the adult skating world. 

“The adult skating community is amazing. It’s great to make connections, especially with other men because there are fewer men in the sport.” 

Those introductions have grown into lasting friendships and a meaningful support system. Adult competitions, he notes, are full of encouragement — even from strangers offering kind words after a performance. 

Upshaw also regularly encourages friends, especially those who once skated as children, to return to the ice. “Call a local club and just do it,” he tells them. He even invites friends to join his club, promising to keep them company and help ease the intimidation of those first steps. 

Skating as Creative Expression 

A full-time graphic designer and part-time musician and songwriter, Upshaw has always been fueled by creative expression. Skating became another source of expression, letting him interpret music and movement in his own distinctive way.    

“Being a creative person spills into all areas of my life, including onto the ice,” he says. 

During his programs, he listens closely to subtle musical cues and emotional shifts, translating them into his performance. He even experiments with his own choreography, refining it alongside his coach. For Upshaw, creativity isn’t optional — it’s essential, fueling him to continually challenge himself whether at work, in music or on the ice. 

Embracing New Challenges 

Upshaw has eagerly taken on new challenges throughout his journey, including skating with St. Catharine’s Ice Diamonds synchronized skating team. As a tall man in synchro, it came with adjustments, but the intensity and teamwork deepened his appreciation for the discipline. He remains an avid fan, following major synchro events and cheering on the sport’s growth. 

With the guidance of his coach, Upshaw continues to push his skills. “My skating seems to be getting better, even though I’m getting older,” he says. His current goals include refining his posture and speed, landing a solid axel, and checking the Oberstdorf Adult International Competition off his bucket list. 

Looking ahead, Upshaw sees skating as a lifelong pursuit. He plans to keep competing and challenging himself for years to come. And when jumping is no longer an option… he’s already eyeing ice dance! 

Greg Upshaw’s story is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and community in figure skating. It shows that skating isn’t defined by age, but by the mindset you bring to the ice — and that there’s always space for anyone ready to step on and express themselves. 

Ready to begin your own journey? Check out our adult skating programs and discover how you can get involved.