Skate lessons at Bayside Blades. Learn to skates rollerblades and inline skating

Craig Hawke

Gold medal in the 500mt track 07 Nationals

Name: Craig Hawke
Age: 52
Home city: Melbourne
Years skating: 14

Craig leads Daniel Doyle, 07 Nationals

How did you get into Speed Skating: I was a parent helper for one of my son's scouting excursions to a local skating rink. I noticed some 'Rollerblades' in the boot room, put on a pair, was hooked, and have been skating ever since.

What is so good about skating and what inspires you to keep skating: The friendships you develop with people locally, interstate and overseas, and knowing I have mastered (well almost!) an extreme sport.

Current Skate set-up: Bont custom 3 mount Vaypors' - 2007 model, 2006 S frames, matter wheels and Bont bearings

Where do currently train with: Team Bayside Speedskating Club.

Craig at 110% during 200mt time trial 07 Nationals

Favorite skaters: In no particular order...Jason Rushen, Mick Byrne, Ryanne Shaw, Kate Pawikowska, Joey Mantia

Favorite places to skate: St Kilda Esplanade, anywhere in Melbourne, and other places intestate with friends

How did you get involved with Bayside Blades: Neil from Bayside Blades approached me with the offer that I gracefully accepted.

Most memorable race meeting: My first National 500M Gold Medal at Adelaide

Favorite Music/Style: . Most styles so long as it doesn't make my ears bleed!

Other interests: My Sons Shane and Scott, HiFi, Motorsports, Cycling, Movies, Travel (when I get the chance)

Craig looking for the lead follows Rob Clements, Nationals 07

Plans for the Future: To improve my sprint times and maybe look at some distance work as well

Overseas skating experiences, Nothing competitively, though I did skate on the Banked Track in Suzhou, China in 2005

likes: Family and friends, Vietnamese food, Asian foods, BBQ, scotch whiskey, chics, Movies, Summer, bike rides with friends, The Mighty Magpies!!

Dislikes: Cranky & grumpy people, brussel sprouts, Carlton FC, the traffic on the Clogterial!!

Thank-yous: I would like to thank my Coach Patrick McLeod for the many years he has been my coach, for without his dedication and knowledge I would not have achieved what I have in speed skating. I'd also like to thank all members of Team Bayside Speed Club for their support over the years. Many thanks also go to Neil of Bayside Blades for his support and encouragement!