Speed ​​skaters came to Calgary to prepare for the ISU World Cup competition

As the ISU World Speed ​​Skating Championships approach, Calgary's Olympic Oval will once again host the world's best skaters.

The international event, which will be held on February 15-18, returns to the city for the first time since 1998.

“It's very special. I got to skate my first senior World Cup on home ice, so to be at the World Championships is huge,” said Canadian figure skater Maddison Pearman.

The last time the big event was held in Calgary, Catriona Le May Doan won big for Canada. Years later, the skaters he inspired hope the home-ice advantage will hold true for them, too.

“It's really special not only to do it, but to do it at home and share it with your friends and family,” said Anders Johnson, who will fight for Canada in the men's team event.

Before the real competition began, members of the media, Olympians and some of Calgary's emergency responders hit the ice — some literally. The group took lessons from Team Canada athletes to get a chance to spin on the ice of the Oval.

Team members at a media event for the ISU World Speed ​​Skating Championships, which begin next Thursday in Calgary

Nordic mixed skier Jason Myslicki, who competed in two Winter Olympics, won the Ice Race on Thursday.

The real competition starts next Thursday and tickets start at $10 for kids and $15 for adults.