CLUB CORNER: Saratoga Winter Club

by Laura Clark

The Saratoga Winter Club was established in 1934 to promote the sport of recreational, instructional and competitive speedskating in Saratoga Springs and nearby towns. The club offers a year-round program utilizing both indoor and outdoor ice and featuring off-season conditioning and in-line skating. Ice sessions begin in early fall and extend through March. They are held Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings at the Saratoga skating rinks. Membership is $20 for individuals or $35 for families. Ice fees are $300 for individuals or $450 for families and are pro-rated for those who join after the season has started. Athletes new to the sport are permitted a month’s introductory period, after which they will be expected to join if they wish to continue. Speedskates are not necessary initially, but may be rented from the club. Helmets, kneepads and leather gloves are mandatory. While the club sponsors two meets per year, competition is an option, not a requirement. For information, go to www.swc.saratoga.ny.us.