Heartland racing came to Wichita, now off to Midland!
By Skating Fan
http://www.thepettit.com/speed-skating/high-performance.htm
The Heartland racing series came to the “heart” of our country to Wichita, Kansas. Smack dab in the middle of the US geographically AND both the indoor ovals in Salt Lake City and Milwaukee. What went down? Well a lot of great racing with a the up and coming stars of our sport and a familiar face we all know that went by in a red flash, Katherine Reutter.
Whispers wonder if she’s “back,” but no, the real reason she toed the line with the stars of the tomorrow was to be a catalyst in the development of our sport. Though in all fairness, you couldn’t wipe the smile off her face after a day of fun going fast. Katherine is the short track coach of the Academy of Speedskating Excellence with Eric Cepuran on the long track side in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The Heartland series stop in Wichita was one of many this season.
The series in itself is a great catalyst for the athletes’ development because it is steadily attracting people from all around as a great opportunity to maintain a high level of racing beyond the championship or qualifying races. Spearheaded and organized by Carl Cepuran and a dedicated group parents and volunteers, Heartland Racing series is steadily growing and here to stay. This series is becoming the embodiment of the journey from “beginner” to “elite.” Every meet personal bests are broken, qualifying times are being met, comfort zones are being washed away finding a new top gear, and above all….a lot of fun and forging friendships that will last a lifetime.
The skating culture is unique in the best way and the travel to the meets is where you cement some of the greatest friendships. Discovering some of the greatest qualities about yourself and teammates brought out in the heat of competition and the goofy adventures in between.
Where to next? www.usspeedskating.org is a great place to look and you can catch the next series in Midland, Michigan December 6th and 7th. With more on the calendar ahead, you just might find yourself in a heat or final with a world champion like Katherine Reutter. “Who” you might be racing is not promised, but by being there, the level will be brought up a notch with your presence. Perhaps racing to a new personal best time. Though without a doubt a great time to smile about.
