Great Skater

Great Skater

Cindy Klassen grew up with a pair of skates on her feet . . . hockey skates, that is. When she was two, her dad gave her a hockey stick. At four, she started playing hockey with the boys, because there weren’t any programs for young girls where she lived. During her teen years, Cindy’s parents read that the 1998 Winter Olympics would feature women’s hockey for the first time. Immediately, Cindy dreamed of playing for Team Canada in the Olympics. When she was sixteen, she made the Canadian Junior National team. But at the tryouts for the Olympic team a couple of years later, Cindy failed to make the roster.

Cindy was certain it was God’s plan for her to play hockey. But that dream seemed dead. Cindy’s parents suggested she try speed skating. At first Cindy looked like a baby horse just learning to walk. The skates and equipment were so different. But her feel for the ice and natural athleticism and drive allowed her to improve quickly. By 2001, she placed near the top in the world championships. Then in 2002 her Olympic dreams came true when she won a bronze medal in the 3,000-meter race in Salt Lake City. But Cindy wasn’t finished on the ice. Four years later she won five medals at the Winter Games in Torino, Italy. She placed third in the 3,000- and 5,000-meter races, earned silver medals at 1,000 meters and in the team pursuit (like a relay race on ice), and took home gold in the 1,500. Her five medals in one Olympics set an all-time record for Canadian athletes.

Do you think Cindy missed hockey? Well, maybe a little. But when one dream ended, she didn’t give up and quit skating. Instead she tried a new sport, developed a new passion, and made history! During the hard times, Cindy said she relied on her faith in God and the truth of her favorite Bible verse, “I know the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me” (Psalm 16:8). She knew she didn’t have to worry about success on the ice, because God was always with her.

Daddy-Daughter Time

Do you have a favorite Bible verse? What is it? Both of you write the reference for your favorite verse here: ________________________________________

If you haven’t memorized your favorite verse, commit to setting it to memory. And if you don’t have a favorite verse, find one. The truth of God’s Word can help carry you through difficult times.

What’s The Word?

I know the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.   Psalm 16:8