By: Matt Weigarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
The Atlas Tube Centre will be buzzing with energy this weekend as nearly 600 figure skaters from across Ontario arrive in the municipality for Provincial Series Competition #15, hosted by Skate Lakeshore from February 20 to 22, 2026. The event marks one of the largest gatherings of young skating talent in the region and reflects the rapid growth of the sport within the community.
Organizers say this year’s competition represents a major milestone for the local club.
“Thanks to the success of our first competition last year, this year’s event has nearly doubled in size,” said Danielle Stuebing, Skate Lakeshore Competition Chair. “We are so excited to have expanded the categories to include Star 1–4 and synchronized skating, which allows even more of our Skate Lakeshore athletes to compete on home ice.”
The Skate Ontario Provincial Series is a key pathway for athletes hoping to qualify for the Skate Ontario Provincial Championships, making this weekend an important stop for skaters, coaches, and families from across the province.
The Municipality of Lakeshore is embracing its role as host community, highlighting both the economic and cultural benefits of welcoming hundreds of visitors.
“On behalf of Lakeshore’s communities, we are thrilled to welcome figure skaters from across Ontario as they compete for a spot at the Provincial Championships,” said Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey. “Thank you to the hardworking members of Skate Lakeshore who helped bring this event to our municipality. We hope that all skaters, along with family, friends, coaches, and volunteers, enjoy everything Lakeshore has to offer.”
Behind the scenes, the competition is powered by an impressive volunteer effort. Skate Lakeshore says the response from the community has been overwhelming.
“It takes many hands to put on an event of this caliber,” Stuebing noted. “We are so grateful to the more than 100 volunteers who have signed up to support this event. Their dedication makes it possible for us to host a competition of this size and quality.”
Spectators are invited to attend throughout the weekend. The event runs 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $10 per person, with seating available on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
Skate Lakeshore, a not‑for‑profit organization, continues to grow its presence in the community. Operated by a small but dedicated team of volunteers, the club offers skating programs for participants ranging from age 3 to adult, with a mission to make skating accessible, enjoyable, and development‑focused for all.
As hundreds of athletes lace up for a weekend of competition, camaraderie, and personal bests, Lakeshore is poised to shine as a welcoming hub for skating excellence—both on the ice and in the community that supports it.
