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This is Chris Redgrave for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.
One of the major focuses for the Utah Olympic Oval, especially as a former Olympic facility, is to promote winter sport participation for people of all ages. Last year over 50,000 people came through public skating program, a group that consisted of those from the very young to seasoned veterans, excited to experience the Oval's well-known ice sheets.
The goal for the "Learn to Skate" program at the Utah Olympic Oval, says General Manager Todd Porter, is to teach kids who have never strapped on blades before how to skate. They offer classes up to Level 3 and then students can choose to stay at that level or seek options for other programs to continue expanding their skill set. For example, some try hockey, or speed skating. One of the main focuses for the beginner programs is to connect with other programs, including non-competitive sports like curling.
Todd started his career as a short-track speed skater. He arrived in Utah in October 1998 from Saratoga Springs, New York, so he could train for the Olympics. His sister was also a short-track speed skater whose best finish was in the Top 12 in Nagano, Japan. Todd went for the World Cup and the U.S. national team and almost competed in the Olympics. Now, this specialized background is serving him as the manager of the Utah Olympic Oval.
He is supportive of educational programs. The Utah Olympic Oval is currently the gymnasium for a couple of nearby schools, offering an almost 500 meter running track, two international size hockey rinks and a wide variety of things for kids to do, including off-ice activities like practicing on the balance beam or swimming.
For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave, speaking on business.
Utah Olympic Oval 5662 Cougar Ln. Kearns, UT 84118 801-968-6825 www.utaholympiclegacy.com
