Program Information

2026/2027 Short Track Program

Start date: October 18, 2026 until March 2027 (final date is TBD)

No sessions on on November 1, 2026 due to ice availability
No session December 27, 2026.
No sessions on December 6, 2026, February 7, 2027, and February 21, 2027 due to
out of town competitions.

When: Sunday mornings – times vary by program, see below.

Where: Colchester Legion Stadium – 14 Lorne Street, Truro, Nova Scotia

We look forward to having you skate with us!

Watch our Facebook page for announcements and additional information.

For all inquiries please contact cobequidspeedskating@gmail.com

Learn to Skate – First Strides

Time: Sundays – 10:00 AM to 10:40 AM

Fee: $320.00

Age: 4 to 15

This program is the perfect starting point for new skaters eager to learn the basics of skating. Participants will progress through Levels 1 – 3 of Speed Skating Canada’s First Strides program – an exciting introduction to the ice! With the guidance of experienced coaches, children will be supported every step of the way, from their firts strides to confidently gliding forward and backward around the rink.

Through fun games and playful activities, skaters will also master the ABCs of Agility, Balance, and Coordination. As their confidence grows, they’ll be ready to move up to the Fundamentals (Learn to Speed Skate) group after completing Level 3.

More information on First and Fast Strides can be found here.

First and Fast Strides - Skater Progress Card

Skates are available to rent from the club (limited sizing available) and a fitting appointment must be scheduled the week before the first session. For more information on skate rentals see the Equipment Page of this site.

REQUIRED Equipment

1. CSA approved, well fitted helmet

• • MUST include a face screen or safety glasses

  • Hockey helmets with cages or ski/snowboard helmets are acceptable only if worn with safety glasses.

  • No bike helmets allowed – helmets must be solid, with no ventilation holes.

2. Neck Protection – Hockey-style neck guard with an attached chest bib are mandatory (available at most sporting stores)

3. Protective Gloves – Puffy, cut proof mitts or leather gloves

4. Fall protection for knees – Snow pants or knee pads for fall protection (volleyball knee pads work well)

5. Lower body protection

• • Snow pants or an additional outer layer to help fall and stay warm

  • Shin pads (optional, but recommended)

Learn to Speed Skate – Fast Strides

Time: Sundays – 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Fee: $400.00

Age: 6+

This program is perfect for skaters with some experience who are ready to add speed and technique to their skill set. Participants will advance through Levels 4 – 6 of Speed Skating Canada’s First and Fast Strides program, building on their foundational skills while being introduced to the fundamentals of speed skating. Coaches will guide skaters through key techniques such as proper stance, balance, straightaway and corner skating, and controlled stopping. As they gain confidence and comfort on the ice, skaters will also improve agility, strength, and coordination in a fun and supportive environment.

In addition to skill development, skaters will begin learning how to race on ice – preparing them for optional participation in local speed skating meets or friendly competitions. Full safety equipment is required, and the program is delivered on speed skates. 

More information on First and Fast Strides can be found here.

First and Fast Strides - Skater Progress Card

Speedskates are required for learn to speed skate and the competitive program. 

Speed skates are available to rent from the club  (limited sizing available) and a fitting appointment must be scheduled the week before the first session. For more information on skate rentals see the Equipment Page of this site.

Skaters may be invited to move into the Competitive or Recreational Speed Skating group based on skill level and coach recommendation.

Board pads will be placed on the ice between 10:30 AM and 10:45 AM giving athletes in this group the opportunity to experience the full ice surface during the final 15 minutes of practice. This change allows skaters to get a true feel for racing conditions, using the full track with proper safety equipment – a crucial step in developing confidence and speed.

Parental help is essential!

To make this happen efficiently, we kindly ask that parents assist with putting the board pads on the ice at 10:30 AM sharp. The quicker we get the pads set up, the more practice time our athletes can enjoy. Thank you for your support inm making this exciting opportunity possible.

REQUIRED Equipment

1. CSA approved, well fitted helmet

• • MUST include a face screen or safety glasses

  • Hockey helmets with cages or ski/snowboard helmets are acceptable only if worn with safety glasses.

  • No bike helmets allowed – helmets must be solid, with no ventilation holes.

2. Neck Protection – Hockey-style neck guard with an attached chest bib are mandatory (available at most sporting stores)

3. Protective Gloves – Puffy, cut proof mitts or leather gloves

4. Fall protection for knees – Snow pants or knee pads for fall protection (volleyball knee pads work well)

5. Lower body protection

• • Snow pants or an additional outer layer to help fall and stay warm

  • Shin pads (optional, but recommended)

Speed Skating (Competitive, Recreational, and Masters)

Time: Sundays – 10:30 AM to 11:50 AM

Fee: $480.00

Speed Skating Competitive: This program is designed for skaters who are ready to take their training to the next level, with a strong focus on racing, performance, and competition. While the learning environment remains fun and supportive, the emphasis shifts toward competitive development and advanced skill-building. Skaters will progress through Levels 7 – 10 of Speed Skating Canada’s First and Fast Strides program developing key skills through a variety of training methods, including:

• Structured instruction, technical drills, and race strategies

• Games and practice races to reinforce skill application

• Race preparation and performance-focused training

• Regular participation in competitions and meets, based on readiness and interest.

This program builds the confidence, technique, and competitive mindset needed for higher levels of racing – while continuing to foster a lifelong love of speed skating.

Speedskates are required for learn to speed skate and the competitive program. 

Speed Skating Recreational: This program is perfect for skaters who have already learned the basics of speed skating and want to continue building their skills in a supportive and active environment. Skaters will progress through Levels 7 – 10 of Speed Skating Canada’s First and Fast Strides program, focusing on continued development at a comfortable pace.

The recreational group emphasizes:

• Improving fitness, skating technique, and on-ice confidence

• Advancing speed skating skills through structured drills and practice

• Training alongside peers in a fun, social setting

• Optional participation in local competitions and fun meets.

More information on First and Fast Strides can be found here.

First and Fast Strides - Skater Progress Card

This is a great option for skaters who want to stay active, refine their skills, and enjoy the sport – without the pressure of high-level competition.

Speed Skating Masters (30+): Masters are skaters aged 30 and up who want to stay active, challenge themselves, and continue developing their skills on the ice. Whether recreational or competitive, Masters can train in the stream that best suits their goals.

Speed skates are available to rent from the club  (limited sizing available) and a fitting appointment must be scheduled the week before the first session. For more information on skate rentals see the Equipment Page of this site.

REQUIRED Equipment

1. CSA approved, well fitted helmet

• • MUST include a face screen or safety glasses

  • Hockey helmets with cages or ski/snowboard helmets are acceptable only if worn with safety glasses.

  • No bike helmets allowed – helmets must be solid, with no ventilation holes.

2. Safety glasses – safety cord is required for competitions

3. Neck guard with bib

4. Cut proof gloves or mitts

5. Knee pads (volleyball type work well)

6. Cut proof ankle guards for regular style speed skates – these will be provided with skate rental and the club has some available for purchase.