Dunedin figure-skater Sarah MacGibbon made a dramatic improvement to win a bronze medal in the Hollin's Trophy competition in Sydney last weekend.
MacGibbon (12), a year nine pupil at Columba College who has been ice skating for five years, lifted her performance to mount the podium in the 21-strong competition in her age-group.
She was the only Otago skater competing in the event, held annually in Australia for the various states and invited countries.
MacGibbon was competing in the pre-primary girls competition and scored 76.60 points.
Her previous best was 40.99.
She is one of Otago's elite skaters and ranks second behind Morgan Figgins on the local scene.
MacGibbon transferred to Dunedin from her home in Gore 30 months ago to develop her skating skills by training at the Dunedin Ice Stadium.
She has worked with Russian coach Fanis Shakirzianav since he arrived in Dunedin two years ago.
The results are starting to happen.
MacGibbon spends 10 hours a week training on the ice and another two hours training away from the ice.
She is working on the double axle, one of the most refined manoeuvres in the sport.
Her next major competition is the New Zealand championships in Gore in September.
MacGibbon wants a gold medal in her age group this year.
Her previous best performance at the national championships was sixth last year.
Her next visit to Australia will be to compete in the Summer Trophy competition at Brisbane next January.
