Adaptive/Special Olympics Competitions 

Special Olympics provides a platform for athletes with physical and cognitive disabilities or impairments to participate in sports and showcase their talents. Specifically, in the context of figure skating, athletes can compete in CanSkate level and STARSkate level events. These events are designed to be inclusive and cater to various levels, ensuring every athlete has the opportunity to participate and excel. 

Special Olympics events are organized at multiple levels: 

• Regional: Local competitions where athletes compete within their community.

• Provincial: Larger competitions with athletes from different regions within a province. 

• National: Competitions featuring athletes from across the country, providing a higher level of competition and exposure.

• International: Highest level of competition, where athletes from around the world come together to compete on a global stage.

These events not only promote physical fitness and skill development but also foster a sense of community, inclusion, and empowerment among athletes. The Special Olympics movement is dedicated to creating a world where every person, regardless of ability, is accepted and celebrated.

Competition Categories:

1. FreeSkate:

   • Description: Skaters perform a full program set to music, incorporating jumps, spins, and other elements. Each level has specific requirements for the length of the music cuts and elements to ensure skaters perform within a standardized time frame.

   • Objective: Combine technical skills with artistic expression to create a cohesive and engaging performance.

   • Recognition: Skaters receive a ranked placement, with the top three receiving medals.

2. Ice Dance:

   • Description: Couples perform set patterns and original dances, focusing on rhythm, interpretation, and edge quality. Programs include compulsory dances, rhythm dances, and free dances. Each level has specific requirements for the length of the music cuts and elements to ensure skaters perform within a standardized time frame.

   • Objective: Emphasize timing, musicality, and synchronized movements between partners.

   • Recognition: Skaters receive a ranked placement, with the top three receiving medals.

3. Pairs FreeSkate:

   • Description: Pairs perform lifts, throws, synchronized spins, and side-by-side jumps within a program set to music. This discipline requires a high level of coordination and trust between partners. Each level has specific requirements for the length of the music cuts and elements to ensure skaters perform within a standardized time frame.

   • Objective: Showcase harmony, unison, and difficult pair elements.

   • Recognition: Skaters receive a ranked placement, with the top three receiving medals.

Equipment: For those who have not completed Stage 5 of CanSkate, a CSA approved helmet is required during competition. 

Event Recognition: All events receive a ranked placement, with the top three participants receiving medals.

Fees:

• Event Fees: Skate Canada lists a fee for each event (Programs, Elements, Improv, Team, etc.). 

• Coaching fees: The coach charges a fee for the time spent with the skater at the event, which varies per coach. This fee can include time, mileage, hotels, meals, etc., depending on the coach's charges.

Special Olympics Winter Sport Canada - Figure Skating Rules: For Domestic events at the Regional, Provincial, and National level.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS COMPETITION INFO

Special Olympics Resource Page: For information about Figure Skating in Special Olympics competitions, practice plans and assessment sheets, ISU judging, and more.

Special Olympics Training and Competition Information: Resource Guide