You won't believe this Saanich woman's dedication

Good morning from the island — we're still here, the orcas were spotted at Active Pass, and honestly, life is fine. Today, I've been thinking about what it means to truly commit to something, year after year, through changing times and trends. What is that quiet dedication worth? Well, here's the thing: a Saanich woman, after 54 years, is stepping down as a figure skating judge. Fifty-four years. Can you imagine the sheer volume of spirals, jumps, and triple axels she's meticulously scored over half a century?

### A Lifetime on Ice

This isn't just a job; it's a calling. For 54 years, she's been a silent, discerning presence at the rink, influencing generations of skaters. Think about it: she's seen the sport evolve from black-and-white television broadcasts to today's high-definition spectacles. She's been privy to the raw talent and the heartbreaks, the triumphs and the near misses, all from her unique vantage point. It makes you wonder how many future Olympians she saw take their first wobbly steps on the ice at local arenas like Pearkes Recreation Centre or the Ian Stewart Complex.

* Fifty-four years of judging figure skating.

* She's scored some of the best skaters in history.

* A true example of quiet, consistent dedication.

This kind of steadfast commitment, often unseen and uncelebrated, is what truly makes a community hum. It’s a very Victoria thing, this kind of long-game dedication. It reminds me of the gardeners at The Butchart Gardens, tending their plots year after year, or the ferry workers who navigate these precise waters daily, regardless of the weather. It’s a quiet strength, like the old Garry oaks in Beacon Hill Park, just standing firm, doing their thing. And now, after all that time, she gets to trade her scorecards for perhaps a good book from an Oak Bay Avenue shop, or a long walk along the Dallas Road waterfront. It’s a well-earned rest, isn't it?

My colleagues on the morning show are probably still trying to wrap their heads around that kind of longevity — you can hear their take every morning at mornings.live.