This year's Great Skate will once again support our friends at The Dream Factory, a local charity that makes dreams come true for kids in our community battling life-threatening illnesses.

When: Sunday, February 2, 2025
8:00 AM: Registration
9:00 AM: The Great Skate
10:00 AM: Awards Ceremony + Post-Race Brunch Gathering

Where: The Forks 
The registration table will be located inside The Common (Forks Market) and Great Skaters will be directed from there.

What:

The Great Skate 2025 is a 6KM race on the Nestaweya River Trail that is open to all ages and all skill levels. Prizes are awarded for the top 3 finishers in each of male, female, and non-binary categories for both skating and movement portions.

The mass start will include a 6KM movement portion alongside the river. Skating is not mandatory, walk/run alongside the river trail!

Race Rules:

• Only ice/hockey skates and figure skates are permitted during the race, speed skates are not permitted for safety concerns.
• The Great Skate is a mass start.
• Be cognisant about racers around you, share and enjoy the space and race!

Cost: Free!

All funds raised directly support The Dream Factory, making more dreams come true for Mantioba kids battling life-threatening illnesses.
 

Please Note: The Great Skate will occur regardless of temperature - so dress warmly! In the event that the conditions of the River Trail are not safe for skating, this year's Great Skate may take place on the land trail, or it will be cancelled and prizes will be awarded based on the top fundraising leaderboard. If this is the case, all Skaters will be contacted by email prior to the event with additional details.

Manuel is a fighter of a 7-year-old boy. He has proven over and over how strong willed and resilient he is. From a young age he has been a happy boy, even though he was often in extreme pain.

Manuel was born with a rare condition called Cloacal Exstrophy. It is a severe birth defect wherein much of his abdominal organs are exposed, also called OEIS complex.

His first surgery in the reconstructive process took place when he was only a couple hours old, and his last two major surgeries took place in Toronto last summer, bringing it to a total of over 14 surgeries.

Manuel has always shown great strength in fine motor skills and loves to play with his LEGO. He has spent countless ours building with his LEGO in the hospital and will push himself to learn new skills and activities.

After 6 years of being an only child, Manuel was over the moon when he became a big brother last December. He adores his little brother and is very protective of him.

Manuel is a huge Winnipeg Jets fan and even has a small collection of official game pucks.

One of Manuel’s dreams has been to go to LEGOLAND to see all the wonderful LEGO creations and try out the rides. After spending many Holidays and summers in the hospital with Manuel, his parents are thrilled and grateful to see Manuel’s dream become a reality.