A PROFESSIONAL skater recently enjoyed a ‘full circle’ moment in Greenock as he returned to the venue of his first show performance to lead a workshop.
Mark Hanretty visited the Waterfront ice rink to pass on some of his expertise to a group of young skaters.
The Erskine-born skater picked up the sport at the age of 10 and went on to represent Great Britain in elite international competitions alongside partner Christina Chitwood.
Mark has featured as a pro on ITV’s Dancing on Ice since 2011, partnering with contestants such as Loose Women’s Nadia Sawalha, Scottish Paralympic athlete Libby Clegg, and former Pussycat Doll Kimberley Wyatt.
Skating coach Kayleigh Munro said it was a pleasure to welcome Mark to the Waterfront.
She added: “It was a full circle moment for him as the rink was the location for his first ever show performance.
“He said it brought back so many memories back for him.
"Coach Fiona, our resident coach, was also in attendance at the camp and knew Mark in his earliest days.
"His visit to Greenock made his realise how lucky he is to still have opportunities to do what he loves."
Skater Faith Mulholland added: “I was so inspired. He gave me advice that I will carry right through my skating journey.
“His energy is amazing and it made me feel so full of energy.
“I loved being coached by him and I loved being able to preform a routine with him at the end of camp.
“I am really looking forward to our next skating camp. It is always such a great surprise to hear who will be visiting our rink next.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here