U of R International students learn a classic Canadian pastime

REGINA – Dozens of University of Regina international students laced up on Saturday to try ice skating, many for the first time.

“The biggest challenge is balancing yourself on the ice,” said Leo Guo, originally from China, as he skated using a folding chair to keep him from falling down at Murray Balfour Arena.

The engineering student called the experience “kind of scary” and “pretty exciting.” He participated in the afternoon event in the hopes of being able to play ice hockey in the future.

The hour of skating was organized by International Friendship Regina, a church group, and was also open to ESL students and visiting scholars.

“One of the rewarding things is you experience things for the first time again, you see it through their eyes,” said Doug Durst, a professor at the university and volunteer with the group.

She said ice skating in Iran, her native country, is expensive to participate in.

Tying the laces securely and balancing on the ice were difficult, but she said she was happy to take on the challenge.

“It’s awesome, I like it,” said Farshidi, who also used a folding chair for balance. “At first, when I came, it was scary but now I feel better.”

Learning how to skate with other international students was a highlight because it helps establish a community, she added.