Facts and Figures

Figure Skating is a dynamic sport that requires both athleticism and artistry. There are four disciplines in which skaters compete

• Ladies’ Singles
• Men’s Singles
• Pairs
• Ice Dance

Each event is unique and has specific requirements and rules that the skaters must follow. In Ladies’ singles, Men’s singles and Pairs there are two parts to the competition: a short program and a free skate. In Ice Dance there are three parts to the competition: compulsory dance, original dance and a free dance. Each competition segment score contributes to the overall score of the competitor, and ultimately determines the winner.

Go to the following link for information on the ISU Judging System.

The International Skating Union

The International Skating Union (ISU) was founded in 1892 and is the oldest governing international winter sport federation. During the last half of the nineteenth century, informal international competitions in both speed skating and figure skating were organized occasionally in different parts of the world. The first modern speed skating competition was held in Norway in 1863 and the first major international speed skating race was held in Hamburg, Germany in 1885. In 1882, the first international figure skating competition took place in Vienna, Austria. With the emergence of international competitions, in both speed skating and figure skating, as well as the forming of skating clubs and of national associations, the need to establish international standards to govern these sports became more and more apparent. In July 1892, the Dutch association took the lead in calling for a meeting of representatives from all countries interested in international ice skating competitions. As a result, the first Congress convened in Scheveningen, Netherlands and the ISU was created. The fifteen delegates present at the time, all from Europe, began to establish firm rules, laying down the foundations for international competitions in both disciplines. With the addition of Canada as a Member in 1894, the ISU expanded its horizons to become a truly international governing body.

www.isu.org

Skate Canada

Skate Canada is the largest figure skating governing body in the world. It provides standards and rules for the figure skating activities of its members. The organization qualifies and appoints judges, referees and other officials; conducts training seminars for skaters and coaches; provides financial support to national team athletes; and disseminates information concerning figure skating to the general public. Skate Canada also promotes the National Coaching Certification Program, organizes free skating and synchronized team skating competitions and manages the annual Skate Canada International.

www.skatecanada.ca