As the Nottingham Ice Centre gets ready to host its first-ever international competition, GB short track performance director Stuart Horsepool believes the home crowd can propel Britain’s skaters to glory.
The ISU Star Class Cup third round will take place this weekend and will see some of Britain’s brightest stars strut their stuff in front of a home crowd, including three-time Olympian Elise Christie as well as Jon Eley and Jack Whelbourne.
And Horsepool is hoping for an electric atmosphere at the third of six events which will culminate with the Europa Cup finals in March.
“We’re all really excited about the competition this weekend. This is the first time we’ve held an international race on home ice and it’s going to be great for team morale to have their home nation there supporting them and cheering them on,” he said.
“The squad have had a very busy few months training and travelling around the world to compete, so it’s refreshing to get the chance to compete here in Nottingham where they train on a day-to-day basis.
“At the start of 2014, they were competing on the world stage at the Sochi Winter Olympics, so to get the opportunity to see them race live and up close is an opportunity not to be missed.
“Our elite skaters compete in events all over the world and they are particularly sharp on the European racing circuit.
“There is something really special about competing on home ice and the support of the British public will help to create an electric atmosphere.”
© Sportsbeat 2015