Sisteron: Philippe Candeloro asserts that skating is accessible to everyone

The town of Sisteron recently had the honor of welcoming the famous figure skater Philippe Candeloro as the godfather of the 41st edition of its trade fair. With his legendary humor, he shared his belief that figure skating is not only a high-level sport but also accessible to everyone, regardless of their age or skill level. This article reflects on this unique meeting and Candeloro’s thoughts on the world of skating.

Philippe Candeloro’s Commitment

Philippe Candeloro, multiple Olympic medalist, is much more than just an athlete. He is an emblematic figure in figure skating, but above all, a man who promotes the idea that skating is for everyone. During his visit to Sisteron, he captivated the public with his passion and friendliness. “Skating is a bit like riding a bike, it’s done on ice, but with a lot more style,” he joked.

Skating, an Accessible Sport

For Philippe, skating is an activity that goes hand in hand with joy and conviviality. He emphasized that it is not necessary to be a champion to strap on skates. “It doesn’t matter if you glide like a penguin or fall more often than you’d like,” he added. Moreover, he even offered free initiation sessions for those wanting to try this flamboyant sport.

The Importance of Inclusion

Candeloro’s initiative aims to encourage diversity in the world of skating. For him, it is essential that all people are represented on the ice. “There are no age or experience criteria,” he specified. The idea is to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable and happy to attempt spins and figures, even if it results in a few falls!

Memorable Anecdotes

During his speech, Philippe shared hilarious anecdotes about his first steps on ice. He recalled his memorable falls and the laughter they generated during his training sessions. “If I hadn’t fallen, I would have never learned to get up with style,” he joked. Thus, his playful and warm approach gives a positive boost to those who are apprehensive about this sport.

A Successful Trade Fair

The Sisteron trade fair, inaugurated with the ribbon… in skating, was a true showcase of the vitality of the town. It brought together enthusiasts from all walks of life, from artisans to art lovers. Candeloro’s touch of glamour added a special dimension to the event. Let’s not forget he even signed a few autographs while doing some dance steps on the ice!

With humor and passion, Philippe Candeloro has managed to combine sporting excellence with the simplicity of practicing skating. His message resonates like a benevolent echo: the ice is not reserved for champions, but rather a space for sharing and happiness. In Sisteron, he succeeded in uniting generations and bringing together fans of figure skating in a festive and inclusive spirit. The photo of Candeloro holding a small child by the hand on the ice is now emblematic of this moment. The laughter, the falls, and the smiles he inspired testify to a warm atmosphere where skating becomes a true common language. By highlighting the accessibility of this sport, he opened the doors to a world often seen as elitist. In Sisteron, it quickly becomes clear that skating is much more than a sport; it is a celebration of collective spirit and shared joy. The message is clear: put on your skates, have fun, and remember, even the greatest champions started with a few slightly awkward spins!