Young Skating Star ‘a Really Nice Kid'

The first time I saw Liam Kapeikis skate was in 2012 when my daughter Leonora was participating in the Wenatchee Figure Skating Club’s annual Christmas show.

- Maureen Stivers

She was just learning to skate and I had not yet seen the more advanced participants. I and other parents remarked on how strong Liam’s skating skills were for a seven year old. During the rehearsals and performances I watched him pal around and laugh with the other skaters.

My daughter joined the Junior Academy at the Town Toyota Center ice rink two years ago and I have spent many hours in the stands watching Liam progress during the practice sessions.

Liam’s skills and work ethic paid off this past January when he made the podium with a strong fourth place finish in his division at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships. The Skating Club held a welcome back celebration, and although a bit shy at first, Liam was proud to share his engraved pewter medal with his fellow skaters.

Natural talent is only a part of his success. He skates eight times per week and works out at the gym. “Sometimes I get here at 6 a.m. Then I come back in the afternoon,” he said.

These sessions are a bit wild. Unlike public skate, where many are just trying to remain on their feet, the freestyle skaters do jumps and more, often with great speed, flying in all directions. “We’re always looking out for each other,” said Liam,” but sometimes we do crash.”

I’ve seen Liam abandon nearly as many jumps as he completes in order to avoid collisions. This can be frustrating. But despite being the best jumper in town, I have never observed him become impatient or rude with anyone. To the contrary, he is pleasant and friendly, bestowing equal treatment on greater and lesser skaters.

I hadn’t skated with Liam but I do take adult lessons and hope to pass the first test level sometime this year. Summoning my inner George Plimpton, I ask Liam if we can skate together. I’m intimidated but remind myself that he is kind.

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