Local Skaters Earn Silver at Empire State Winter Games

High Peaks Skating Academy synchronized team shines in Lake Placid

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The High Peaks Skating Academy synchronized skating team from Tupper Lake, Saranac Lake, and the surrounding area brought home the silver medal on Sunday at the Empire State Winter Games' Synchronized Skating Aspire division competition in Lake Placid. The team is coached by Amy Payton and features skaters Elizabeth Kivlen, Lucy Lindsay, Harper Gnann, Madelyn Amell, Myla Lolonde, Nora Gardner, Madelyn Leblanc, Amelia Savage, and Taelyn Woodruff.

Why it matters

The Empire State Winter Games is a prestigious multi-sport event that showcases top winter athletes from across New York state. The High Peaks Skating Academy's silver medal finish highlights the talent and dedication of the local synchronized skating team, which competes against squads from around the region.

The details

The High Peaks Skating Academy synchronized skating team performed their routine on Sunday at the 1932 Jack Shea Arena in Lake Placid, earning the silver medal in the Aspire division. The team's strong performance and podium finish is a testament to the skaters' hard work and the coaching of Amy Payton.

  • The Empire State Winter Games took place from February 6-10, 2026 in Lake Placid, New York.
  • The synchronized skating competition was held on Sunday, February 10, 2026.

The players

High Peaks Skating Academy

A synchronized skating team based out of Tupper Lake, New York that includes skaters from Tupper Lake and Saranac Lake.

Amy Payton

The coach of the High Peaks Skating Academy synchronized skating team.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The High Peaks Skating Academy's silver medal finish at the Empire State Winter Games showcases the talent and dedication of the local synchronized skating team, and highlights the growth and success of winter sports programs in the Adirondack region.