Fresh off a record-breaking performance at the provincial BC Cup in Prince George, the Tri-City Lightning Speed Skating Club is set to host more than 130 skaters and 80 volunteers at its annual Tri-City Lightning Speed Skating Interclub Competition on November 30 at the Port Coquitlam Recreation Centre.
According to a release from the club, the event will welcome greetings from Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West, who plans to attend in person to show his support for local sport development and youth athletic growth. The mayor’s appearance highlights the city’s continued encouragement of community sport and recreation initiatives across the Tri-Cities.
At the BC Cup, one of two provincial short track speed skating competitions, 21 Tri-City Lightning athletes achieved a combined 14 medals — including four gold, six silver, and four bronze — while also recording numerous personal best times. The club medalled in every category with skater representation, which club officials described as one of its strongest performances to date.
The club’s success extended to the national stage earlier this month. At the Canadian Neo-Junior Short Track Championships in Calgary, nine BC skaters aged 14 to 15 were selected to compete nationally, and four of them came from Tri-City Lightning. They ranked among the top 60 skaters in each gender category in Canada, achieving multiple personal bests in the process.
“These results reflect not only the talent of our athletes, but also the hard work and dedication that define our club,” said Rose Nguyen, Director-At-Large for the Tri-City Lightning Speed Skating Club. “We’re proud of their accomplishments and excited to showcase that same spirit at our upcoming Interclub Competition.”
The annual meet will draw more than 200 people, including 80 volunteers, including parents, coaches, and officials. The competition features a full slate of short track races for all age groups — from first-time racers to advanced provincial contenders — and includes qualifying heats for 12- and 13-year-old athletes vying for spots in the 2026 Trail-Rossland BC Winter Games.
“Having the support of Mayor Brad West underscores the impact our club has within the community,” said Acting Club President Seungjoo Lang. “This event would not be possible without our volunteers, whose commitment ensures our skaters have access to high-quality, safe, and exciting racing opportunities.”
Founded 35 years ago, the Tri-City Lightning Speed Skating Club, formerly known as the Port Coquitlam Lightning Speed Skating Club supports athletes of all ages and abilities through inclusive programming and high-quality coaching. The club trains at the Port Coquitlam Recreation Centre, Planet Ice Coquitlam, and Port Moody Arena, promoting what it describes as a culture of “grit, passion, and compassion.”
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