Bolles School recently issued the following announcement.
Bolles sophomore Anamika Fernandes ’24, who has for many years honed her figure-skating strengths with the First Coast Skating Club in Jacksonville, has been appointed by the president of the Emirates Skating Club in the United Arab Emirates to compete in the Emirates Inter-Club International Competition this May and currently is in training for the event in Abu Dhabi. Her focus on the sport is part of a lifelong dream to become part of the UAE national figure-skating team.
Fernandes’ father was working in the UAE and during visits there, she was able to join some local clubs as a visitor. More than a year ago, Fernandes skated her program in a Dubai ice rink show and subsequent made the decision to join the Emirates Skating Club due to the “excellent coaching and advanced level of skating they have in the region,” she said.
“I am able to skate with amazing foreign coaches who have achieved high levels in her field,” explained Fernandes, who continues to take her Bolles classes remotely. She has skated with Ukranian coach Bogdan Berezenko and Hungarian coach Attila Soos, and was able to skate with and be coached by Zahra Lari, the reigning UAE national champion. “She is an amazing skater and person who has stood up for women and sport in the region.”
Fernandes said the sport of figure skating requires feats of athleticism and graceful artistry, combining elements of dance, ballet, gymnastics and skating.
“It allows you to challenge yourself to achieve new things and reach new goals,” she said.
As for school work, Fernandes said remote learning at Bolles is doable – but definitely challenging.
“It requires more effort, but if you manage your time properly, you can get through the day’s work easily,” she said.
Best wishes to you on your training, Anamika! We are #BollesProud of your hard work!
Original source can be found here.
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