About Speed Skating Sask

Speed Skating Sask (SSS) is the provincial sport organization dedicated to growing and supporting speed skating across the province. From first-time skaters stepping onto the ice to athletes pursuing provincial, national, and international competition, SSS supports participation, development, and excellence at every level of the sport.

Our History

Speed skating has a long and proud history in Saskatchewan, built through the dedication of passionate community leaders and local clubs.

One of the earliest and most influential figures in Saskatchewan speed skating was Clarence Downey, who founded the Saskatoon Lions Speed Skating Club in 1942. His leadership helped establish the foundation for organized speed skating in the province, and his legacy continues to be recognized as central to the sport’s development in Saskatchewan.

In Regina, 1965 marked a key milestone with the founding of the Regina Speed Skating Club. Iris Fletcher, recognized as one of the club’s founding members, became a pioneer in Saskatchewan speed skating and helped shape opportunities for athletes in the province for generations to come.

Over time, speed skating in Saskatchewan evolved from a small number of local pioneers into a province-wide network of clubs and programs. What began through the efforts of passionate volunteers grew into a provincial system supporting athlete development, coaching, officiating, competitions, and opportunities for skaters of all ages and abilities.

Throughout its history, Saskatchewan has been shaped by influential builders of the sport, including Dr. Robert “Bob” Hodges and Rene Marleau, whose contributions helped strengthen and grow speed skating across the province.

Speed Skating in Saskatchewan Today

Today, Speed Skating Sask supports clubs in communities across the province, helping skaters build skills, confidence, friendships, and a lifelong love of sport.

From grassroots programming and Learn to Skate opportunities to high-performance pathways, SSS helps connect athletes to provincial competitions, Saskatchewan Winter Games, national championships, Canada Winter Games, and beyond.

Saskatchewan speed skating is powered by community. Coaches, officials, volunteers, parents, and club leaders play an essential role in creating welcoming environments where skaters can thrive both on and off the ice.

While Saskatchewan is proud of athletes who have reached national and Olympic levels, the heart of the sport remains in local communities — introducing new skaters to the ice, building confidence, and creating lifelong connections through speed skating.