Elevating the Art of Figure Skating: Gracie Gold's Road to Gold Training Camp Empowers Skaters of All Levels

The Road to Gold Training Camp, led by Olympic medalist and two-time U.S. National Champion Gracie Gold, is returning to Vail, Colorado, offering adult classes from July 19-21 and youth (20 and younger) classes from July 21-23. This renowned camp, taught by World and National medalists, provides a unique opportunity for skaters to hone their skills, build confidence, and immerse themselves in the captivating world of figure skating.

Unlocking the Potential of Skaters, One Step at a Time

Customized Training for Every Level

The Road to Gold Training Camp caters to skaters of all levels, from beginners exploring the fundamentals of edges and spins to advanced athletes working on complex jumps. Participants can build their own training schedule, selecting from a diverse menu of 40-minute, on-ice and off-ice classes offered à la carte. With small class sizes, typically capped at 17 skaters on half a sheet of ice, the coaches can provide personalized attention and guidance to each participant, ensuring they make the most of their training experience.

Embracing the Artistry of Figure Skating

In addition to technical skill development, the camp also focuses on the artistic elements of figure skating. Workshops delve into choreographic components, and a special competition simulation and judges' critique are offered for adult participants. The youth camp, on the other hand, culminates in an exhibition, allowing young skaters to showcase their newfound skills and artistry.

Empowering Skaters Through Mindset and Wellness

The Road to Gold Training Camp recognizes that figure skating is not just about physical prowess, but also about mental resilience and overall well-being. Off-ice sessions cover topics such as warm-ups, injury prevention, and video analysis, equipping skaters with the knowledge and tools to optimize their performance and maintain a healthy, balanced approach to the sport.

Gracie Gold's Inspiring Perspective

As the camp's lead instructor, Gracie Gold brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the table. The Olympic medalist and two-time U.S. National Champion has learned to embrace failure as a valuable learning opportunity, encouraging participants to view setbacks as stepping stones to growth and improvement."Failure is the best learning tool. I don't encourage failure, but I encourage the positive (aspect): Without failure, we don't learn anything," Gold shares. "As a perfectionist, sometimes I got my wires crossed. If my skating was bad, I thought it was about me — that I was bad. … One thing I speak about in my classes is that there really is no good jump or bad jump. We're here to learn."Gold's insights extend beyond the technical aspects of the sport, as she recognizes the importance of fostering a supportive and empowering environment for skaters of all ages and abilities. She carefully selects her coaching team, not only for their impressive credentials but also for their commitment to giving back to the skating community and creating a nurturing atmosphere.

Expanding Accessibility and Inclusivity

The Road to Gold Training Camp is dedicated to making figure skating accessible to a diverse range of participants. The camp's nonprofit initiative, Road to Gold Gives Back, provides financial support to skaters and clubs, ensuring that the sport remains within reach for those who might otherwise face barriers."If you've ever felt like you're not good enough to participate in skating — because I've felt that (because) the skating world can feel exclusive, or elitist — in the Road to Gold that doesn't exist. Everyone is welcome," Gold emphasizes.The camp's inclusive approach extends to the adult sessions, which have become the fastest-growing aspect of figure skating in the country. Gold encourages even the most hesitant first-timers to step onto the ice, assuring them that the camp's welcoming atmosphere and supportive coaches will help them feel right at home.

A Nationwide Expansion of Elite Coaching

The Road to Gold Training Camp originated in 2018 as a collaborative effort between Gold, U.S. Pairs Champion John Coughlin, and Amy Fankhauser, the skating director of Line Creek Community Ice Arena in Kansas City. What started as a one-off weekend event has since evolved into a nationwide initiative, with the camp being offered in an average of eight to 10 locations across 19 states.The camp's focus on smaller markets that might not otherwise attract high-level coaches is a testament to its mission of ensuring that every skater, regardless of their location, has the opportunity to train like an elite athlete. The diverse team of coaches, which includes Olympians, National Champions, and renowned specialists, brings a wealth of expertise and a shared passion for giving back to the skating community."We are dedicated to ensuring that every skater, regardless of their location, has the opportunity to train like an elite athlete," the camp's website states, a sentiment echoed by veteran coach Eddie Shipstad, who praises the Road to Gold Training Camp as "one of the best-run camps in the country and offers something for every level of skater."As the Road to Gold Training Camp continues to expand its reach and impact, it stands as a shining example of how figure skating can be a transformative and inclusive pursuit, empowering skaters of all ages and abilities to reach new heights and discover the joy of the sport.