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Alberni's Streichsbier heads to skating nationals

An Alberni ice dancing duo have qualified for the Canadian Nationals being held in Moncton, NB in January.
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Eric Streichsbier skates with new partner Elise Von Holwede in novice ice dance at the AV Multiplex. They were the only couple in that category at the 2012 Vancouver Island Regional Championships.

Eric Streichbier and his ice dancing partner Elise Von Holwede have qualified for the Canadian Nationals next month.

The couple, who have only been competing as a pair since July, competed in the Skate Canada Challenge in Regina last weekend.

After compulsories on the first day Streichsbier and Von Holwede were in a 10-way tie in the middle of the pack, Streichsbier’s mother, Sherry, said. No more than one point separated the 10 teams.

“Going into the free dance they knew they had a good chance,” Sherry Streichsbier said.

Despite two time violations and a costume malfunction—Eric’s suspender came undone and nearly hit Von Holwede in the head—they squeaked by.

All they needed was for one team to skate poorly to earn a spot to the skating nationals.

Streichsbier flew home to Port Alberni for a few days, while Von Holwede returned home to Spiritwood, Sask. to visit family.

They will compete at the nationals in Moncton, NB, Jan. 16–22, 2012.

The pair skates out of the Racquet Club in Victoria, under coach Matt Willis.

editor@albernivalleynews.com