By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

PELHAM – The 2025 Magic City Ice Classic concluded another successful run at the Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena on Sunday, May 4, drawing more than 360 skaters from across the country for a weekend of competition, camaraderie and community.

Hosted by the Birmingham Figure Skating Club, the event exists as one of the Southeast’s premier figure skating showcases. Nearly 450 events were held at the event, which saw approximately a 20 percent jump in registration. Skaters represented clubs from Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee and more, with levels ranging from beginners to nationally ranked competitors.

“We are so pleased with how (the) Magic City (Ice Classic) went this year,” said Henrika Taylor, the BFSC’s secretary. “So much energy and excitement. We had a number of skaters and families make a point to find us to say they had a great time and look forward to coming back next year. Those moments when folks take the time to give us positive feedback mean a lot.”

Throughout the weekend, families, coaches and skaters packed the arena, filling practice sessions and cheering from the stands.

“Seeing the skaters at every level perform, doing their absolute best and not giving up is beyond description,” Taylor said. “We do everything we can to make sure skaters, coaches, families and officials have what they need and we hear from folks how much they appreciate our efforts. We are frequently told that MCIC is their favorite competition because it feels friendly. We love hearing that.”

Taylor added that the event also provided an economic boost to Pelham and the surrounding area with hundreds of skaters and their families in town.

“We are still collecting data, but with the sheer number of people coming in for the weekend of MCIC, we know several local hotels were booked,” Taylor said. “We can only imagine how many meals were taken out and how many families might have explored the Birmingham area and amenities before departing on Sunday.”

More than just a competition, the Magic City Ice Classic plays an important role in growing the sport regionally.

“I keep coming back because I want opportunities for a high-level competitive experience for skaters in the Southeast,” said Priscilla Fowler, BFSC board member and competition co-chair. “Exposure to events like MCIC is the best way to keep young skaters excited and help them see what’s possible.”