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 Special thanks to Carl Moseley who recently donated some priceless DVD's and films from great historical ice shows and skaters. They will be added to our collection list soon. Thanks so much, Carl! International Star Heather Belbin passes away. Read more... |
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NORVAL BAPTIE - THE COMPLETE SKATER
Written by Janet Wright
Norval Waite Baptie’s mother was born in Scotland which might have something to do with his unusual first name. The name Norval is
from the Scots Gaelic language, is pronounced as nor-vel and means “from a village in the north.” Baptie is usually thought to be
French but is actually from the ancient Greek or Roman “baptistes” meaning to bathe or dip.
Born in Bethany, Ontario on March 18, 1879, Norval Baptie was moved to Bathgate, USA Dakota Territory, at a the age of one. His adult career influenced the entire sport of skating as a world record speed skater, designer of blades, impresario, performer, figure skater, and coach. Before his death November 26, 1966, he saw himself inducted into Canada's Sports Hall of Fame in 1963.
The Pembina County Historical Society reports “He won his first race when he was only 10, on a patch of ice in Bathgate. He was Northwest senior champion at 13 and beat the world amateur speed skating champion at 16.” Somewhat out of context they continue “In 1914 he organized the first ice show.”