2026 Desert Classic Short Track

Kick off the speedskating season at the Desert Classic! From first-time racers as young as 5 years old to World Cup athletes, this event showcases every level of the sport in one exciting weekend.

Experience the thrill of high-speed racing, lightning-fast turns, dramatic finishes, and incredible athleticism as skaters from across the country take to the ice. Whether you're cheering for a beginner completing their first race or watching world-class athletes battle for victory, there's excitement around every corner.

Admission is free, so bring your family and friends and discover why speedskating is one of the fastest and most exciting sports on ice!

For the most current schedule please call the Utah Olympic Oval.

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2026 Utah Olympic Oval Desert Classic Short Track

August 7-9, 2026

Utah Olympic Oval | 5662 S Cougar Lane | Kearns, UT  84118

Format: All-Finals, No-Elimination

This event is open to all skaters skating age 5 and up with a current USS membership (at minimum Club Membership).

Open A Men and Women, as well as Open B Men, will compete in gender-specific, ability-based groups. All other categories will compete in mixed-gender, ability-based groups.

Please note that the ZERO-FALSE-START rule will be in place.

NOTE: Age limit is 5 as of July 1st, 2026  to enter the competition.

Entry Deadline:

July, 28th , 2026 at 5pm MT

Entry Fee: $95

Late entries accepted until August 3rd, 2026 at  5pm MT. A $100 late entry fee charge will apply.

Preliminary Schedule:

Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm*

Saturday: 8:00am-5:00pm*

Sunday: 8:00-5:00pm*

*times are subject to change

Coaches Meeting:

Thursday, August 6th, 2026 at 5pm - Virtually

A Zoom link will be sent to all eligible and current coaches named by their athletes during the registration process.

Official Training:

Official Training is available complimentary on

Thursday: 2:30-3:30pm and 3:45-4:45pm

For additional training times please contact dparra@uolf.org for pricing and availability.

Safety Equipment:

All skaters participating in the Open A and B categories are required to wear full-body cut-resistant protection (either integrated into the skinsuit or separate underwear). Please take note of ISU Communication #2636 and that USS will follow the ISU’s guidance regarding the level of mandatory and recommended equipment for the 2025-2026 season. All other skaters are highly encouraged to wear full-body cut-resistant protection for Desert Classic.

a.   USS Selection Competitions

Mandatory required minimum: full-body cut-resistant Level 3 suit and cut resistant Level 3 gloves.

b.   Eye protection. All skaters are required to wear appropriate safety eye protection. Eye protection should be shatter-resistant glasses or a complete visor (as per ISU comm 2636). A safety strap to hold the eyeglasses is recommended.  

The officials will do random checks to inspect the equipment of skaters at the event. Cut resistant racing suite must cover properly and entirely the neck. Skaters with inadequate neck protection will be required to wear an extra neck protector or will not be allowed to start.

Please refer to USS Rules & Regulations for all other requirements.

Travel Information:

Utah Olympic Oval

5662 S Cougar Lane

Kearns, UT  84118

Hotel Information:

Hampton Inn & Suites West Jordan

3923 W Center Park Drive

West Jordan, UT 84084

Limited rooms are available at a discounted rate and are a first come first serve.

Booking link here

Or use Hotel Planner to find your accommodation.

Volunteers:

Please contact Tammy Furgason at TFurgason@uolf.org if you would like to volunteer during the event.

Eligibility:

·       5 years of age as of 7/1/2026

·       Current USS membership – Club Competitor Membership minimum

Athlete Check-In:

All athletes are required to pick up their helmet cover and transponders either in person or via a designated individual on Thursday, August 6th from 9:00-11:00am or 2:00-4:00pm  at the Utah Olympic Oval Timing Deck.

Random equipment checks will be performed throughout the weekend.

No deposit will be required.

Not returned transponders will be charged to the skater at $100/unit.

Not returned helmet covers will be charged to the skater at $20/cover.

Spectators:

This event is complimentary for all spectators.

Results:

Dropbox

Additional Topics:

Qualifying Tables

SafeSport