Ellie’s marathon effort raises much-needed cash for medal-winning ice skating team

A Gedling youngster has put in a marathon effort to raise funds for her local ice skating team.

Nine-year-old Ellie completed the Robin Hood Mini Marathon last month (September) to bring in cash for her synchronised ice skating team.

Ellie, who attends Priory Junior School, in Gedling, is part of the ‘Ice Gems’ who are the Juvenile squad of the Nottingham Synchronised Skating Academy.

Ellie is the youngest member of the team that has members ranging in age from from nine to 14 years old.  The team’s ice schedule at present means the girls need to be at the rink for 5.35 am, which means an early start for members and also the parents who provide the transport.

Ice Gems are an all-girl team who do an hour of off-ice zoom class, 1-2 hours of on-ice training and an hour or so of ballet per week, mostly over the weekend.

The team had a successful competition season in 2022-2023, with Gold in London, Silver in Dumfries, Silver in Sheffield and Bronze at the British Championship Britannia Cup.

Ellie’s mini-marathon day started at the rink at 7am which ran until 9.15am. Then it was off to the mini marathon, still in skating gear under her race T Shirt to complete the race for her team.  After finishing Ellie happily said “I’ve got quite the collection of medals now”.

Ellie’s mum, Kara said “I am incredibly proud of my daughter and this team, who are current British Bronze medallists.  My daughter is a pupil at Priory Junior School who have actively encouraged and supported her sport and I am eternally grateful to them for that.”

Next up for the Iced Gems is a trip to London as British Ice Skating host the Skate London Synchro in November at Alexander Palace.

Kara added: “Competition costs are looming as the first takes place November 24 – 26 in London. We would be really grateful if anyone feels able to contribute.”

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If you would like to support Ellie and her team mates you can do so via Ellie’s just giving page HERE.

Further information regarding British Ice Skating can be found HERE.

Further information including contact details about the Nottingham Synchonised Skating Academy (NSSA) who run seven squads can be found on their website HERE.