It takes a lot to be a figure skater. Besides the physical and mental strength needed to practice and perform routines, skaters must balance work, school and practice. Plus the added monetary needs for boots, blades, costumes, jackets, skate guards, etc. When Kiri Baga traveled to Washington D.C. to perform at the Fort Dupont Ice Arena last year, she noticed many of the figure skaters were practicing in rental skates and decided that something needed to be done. Knowing the difference a great boot has on skaters’ potential (especially when it’s Riedell!) she returned home and collected her used skates to give to Washington D.C. skaters in need. This year Kiri, with the help of skaters across the country she meets at exhibitions like Skate for Life, continues to donate skates, costumes, skate guards and everything a young skater needs through the program she now calls Kiriskates.

Pick up a copy of this month’s Skating Magazine to read more about Kiri’s growing impact on young skaters in Washington D.C.  

How does skating benefit your community?