Ten-year-old skater launches Halloween event to fund national competition travel
Sophie Webb of the Blenheim Roller Skating Club is organizing a disco and food fair on October 31 to offset the costs of competing in February.
By Sarah Ross ·
Attending the New Zealand Speed Skating National Championships in February requires a substantial financial contribution from each competitor, often amounting to hundreds of dollars. To help cover these expenses, Sophie Webb, a 10-year-old member of the Blenheim Roller Skating Club, has organized a community fundraiser on October 31.
Webb, who holds seven national medals, initiated the project after observing a local karting club discuss its own fundraising strategies. She wanted to reduce the financial burden on adult organizers. "I thought, what if I had my own fundraiser so we don't have to put all the pressure on the adults to raise the money," Webb said. The concept evolved from a simple sausage sizzle into a full evening event.
The gathering, titled a Halloween disco, will take place from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Blenheim Roller Skating Club rink on Stephenson Street. Admission is $5 for those requiring skate hire, or $2 for participants bringing their own equipment. The program includes a costume competition with a prize for the winner, a bake sale, and a raffle. Non-skaters are welcome to attend, and staff will be available to assist beginners.
Webb described the planning process as time-intensive, noting that she has spent hours coordinating the logistics. She expressed anticipation for the costume contest but admitted to feeling nervous about attendance numbers. "I'm really looking forward to it but a bit nervous in case people don't come," she said.
The event aims to provide a fun atmosphere for the community while directly supporting the skaters' travel and entry fees. Webb emphasized that the goal is to allow her and her fellow club members to compete at the national level without relying solely on adult donations.
The fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday, October 31. It will serve as the final major fundraising activity for the team before the February competition. All proceeds will go toward the New Zealand Speed Skating National Championships.
Source: The Star
