COLD LAKE - The Cold Lake Energy Centre was packed with excitement as the Take Flight Cheer and Dance Championship took place March 29 and 30, bringing in athletes from across Alberta - and beyond - for a weekend of competition.
“I own the cheerleading gym here in Cold Lake Flight Athletics, and we have quite a few teams here and we always travel to Edmonton, Calgary, Saskatoon for our cheerleading competitions, and we just thought it would be really great to do something locally to give our athletes an opportunity to perform in their hometown,” said Viola Holden, the event host of Take Flight Cheer and Dance Championships.
The competition drew teams from across Alberta, including Cold Lake, Bonnyville, Fort McMurray, Lloydminster, and as far as Medicine Hat, providing a near-home event for many athletes.
Take Flight Cheer and Dance Championship has grown significantly since its beginnings.
“The first year we actually did the event was virtual. When COVID hit, all of our events were canceled, and we wanted to put together something,” Holden explained. “We had gyms from across four provinces participate in that one. And then when COVID was over, we decided to bring it to life. This is our third year doing it here at the Energy Centre.”
The event showcased various divisions, from first-time novice competitors to more experienced prep teams and highly competitive all-star teams.
All-star teams competed on both days, delivering high-energy performances.
“And all-star is kind of the main division of cheer, that’s where it gets more competitive."
The championship welcomed over 500 athletes and included a panel of judges from Alberta and Saskatchewan. Volunteers played a critical role in making the event happen.
“It’s been amazing, especially from within our gym. Our parents and our coaches have gone above and beyond to help put together the event,” Holden said.
She added that Take Flight not only showcased the competition but also highlighted the dedication and hard work of cheer athletes. Many athletes train up to 14 hours a week, and the event helped raise awareness about all-star cheerleading, challenging misconceptions that it’s just about pom-poms and dance. It also provides a supportive community that understands and appreciates the athletes' commitment.
Teams competed for a variety of awards, including individual division rankings, level champions, and the coveted grand champion award for the highest overall score.
The championship brought a significant economic boost to Cold Lake, with visitors to the community often supporting local businesses. It also provided relief for parents who typically travel long distances for competitions, said Holden.
Looking ahead, local cheer enthusiasts can mark their calendars for an upcoming showcase.
“We have a showcase April 26, so that one’s at the Cold Lake Agriculture Society, and that one is just for our Cold Lake athletes from the Flight Athletics gym.”
