The province’s top speedskaters have gathered in London for an exciting competition this weekend. CTV’s Brent Lale provides the details.
The fastest skaters are taking on the oval at Western Fair Sports Centre.
“This is the best of the best in Ontario,” said Adam Law, a member of Team Canada.
The London Speed Skating Club (LSSC) is putting on a sanctioned Short Track Elite Circuit event Saturday and Sunday.
This two-day competition marks the third stop on the Elite Circuit and serves as a qualifier for the 2026 Ontario Winter Games.
London Speed Skating Club – Dec 2025 The London Speed Skating Club is hosting a short-track elite competition in London, Ont. from Dec. 13-14, 2025. (Brent Lale/ London)
“It’s definitely competitive today. There’s a guy on the national team who is really quick,” said Ben Evel, 17, catching his breath after his race. “It’s high intensity and I like adrenaline, so it’s just really fun,” shared Ethan Pollock, 16, who skates with LSSC.
Among those showcasing their skills was Adam Law.
The Mississauga native belongs to Team Canada’s Next Gen Squad and now trains in Montreal. He recently placed ninth at the Olympic Trials.
Adam Law – London – Dec 2025 Adam Law, seen on Dec. 13, 2025 in London, Ont., is a member of Team Canada’s Next Gen program. (Brent Lale/ London)
“I just wanted to come back and help give back to the community that raised me,” said Law. “I started young at like 12 years old, so coming here, I hope to inspire the next generation of skaters.”
This event also features a master’s category. Ed Van Den Dool, 68, from LSSC can still keep up with the younger competitors; he won his morning heat Saturday.
“The London club is always looking for new skaters,” mentioned Van Den Dool. “We’ve got about 20 or 30 skaters right now, but for those not interested in hockey, this sport is fantastic. It offers great social opportunities and I always say, ‘I’ve never met a speed skater I didn’t like.’”
Ed Van Den Dool – London – Dec 2025 Masters skater Ed Van Den Dool, 68, is seen on Dec. 13, 2025 in London, Ont. He competes all across the world. (Brent Lale/ London)
Speed skating tends to get more attention during an Olympic year. For LSSC members, it provides both inclusivity and challenges.
“We are welcoming new people who want to learn how to speed skate starting in January,” stated Susan Scollie, vice president of LSSC. “Anyone age five and older can join us! People often associate speed skating with what they see at the Olympics; that’s not quite how it starts out though-I coach kids ages five to twelve because that’s where they should begin.”
This competition runs through Sunday at Western Fair Sports Centre and it’s free for everyone to attend-it offers some of the best action outside of Nationals or Olympic events!
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Adam Law – London – Dec 2025 Adam Law, seen on Dec. 13, 2025 in London, Ont., is a member of Team Canada’s Next Gen program. (Brent Lale/ London)
“I just wanted to come back and help give back to the community that raised me,” said Law. “I started young at like 12 years old, so coming here, I hope to inspire the next generation of skaters.”
This event also features a master’s category. Ed Van Den Dool, 68, from LSSC can still keep up with the younger competitors; he won his morning heat Saturday.
“The London club is always looking for new skaters,” mentioned Van Den Dool. “We’ve got about 20 or 30 skaters right now, but for those not interested in hockey, this sport is fantastic. It offers great social opportunities and I always say, ‘I’ve never met a speed skater I didn’t like.’”
Ed Van Den Dool – London – Dec 2025 Masters skater Ed Van Den Dool, 68, is seen on Dec. 13, 2025 in London, Ont. He competes all across the world. (Brent Lale/ London)
Speed skating tends to get more attention during an Olympic year. For LSSC members, it provides both inclusivity and challenges.
“We are welcoming new people who want to learn how to speed skate starting in January,” stated Susan Scollie, vice president of LSSC. “Anyone age five and older can join us! People often associate speed skating with what they see at the Olympics; that’s not quite how it starts out though-I coach kids ages five to twelve because that’s where they should begin.”
This competition runs through Sunday at Western Fair Sports Centre and it’s free for everyone to attend-it offers some of the best action outside of Nationals or Olympic events!
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