Crawford International Sandton sisters Caitlin and Jessica Levien gave a phenomenal performance in the recent Gauteng Provincial Ice Skating Championships.
Jessica won the novice section for both choreography and freestyle and Caitlin took home the bronze medal for the chicks section. Both girls were proud to see that their commitment and passion for figure skating had paid off.
“Championships were rather daunting at first, when you walk into the rink your nerves start to hit but I very quickly settled my nerves and simply pretended that it wasn’t a competition, but rather like a really empty practice,” said Caitlin.
“Overall it was an awesome experience, and the support I received as a skater was overwhelming,” Jessica added that she was very excited to be back on the ice. “I was very excited to compete again after the Covid lockdown caused the cancellation of all competition since February last year,” she said.
Caitlin added that competing at the Gauteng Provincial Championships was a personal milestone for her.
“I had set myself a goal after my second knee reconstruction to skate at a provincial competition and so when I competed, I showed myself just what I can achieve with dedication and an amazing coach who believes in me.”
For Jessica, the experience was rather nerve-wracking after the long break off the ice.
“The lack of an audience made it seem very different. It boosted my self-confidence to compete successfully again and to take first place in my section.”
Both girls hope to encourage more young women who aspire to get on the ice. “No matter your age, gender or body type, you are able to achieve whatever you wish, if you are willing to put in the effort,” said Jessica.
Caitlin added that figure-skating was not just a hobby, it demanded dedication and it becomes who you are.
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