Sport in motion - ice stock sport, ice hockey, figure skating 18.12.2024

The second edition of the “Sport in Motion” series, launched in 2023, is dedicated to the diverse sports played on ice.

In ice stock sport, the aim is to hit the target as accurately as possible. Sticks from the opposing team may be pushed aside. Points are awarded to the team whose ice stocks are closest to the target. Additionally, there are target and distance competitions. Ice stock sport is particularly popular in Alpine regions. It is not only a club sport but also a much-loved leisure activity, often played with a focus on fun rather than strict rules. It is frequently enjoyed on frozen lakes or synthetic lanes, and in rural areas, homemade ice stocks are often used.

Ice hockey is a fast-paced, physical team sport. Early depictions of games involving players moving a ball with sticks on ice can be seen in Dutch paintings from the 17th century. However, modern ice hockey evolved in the 19th century during European colonisation efforts in Canada, where it remains the national sport. Since 1877, a flat puck has replaced the ball. A match lasts three 20-minute periods but often takes longer due to frequent interruptions. The dynamic gameplay and high-scoring nature make ice hockey particularly thrilling to watch.

In contrast, figure skating focuses on the grace of movement. While humans used bone skates to move across ice as early as the Neolithic Age, ice skating became a popular social pastime in modern history. Ice skates with attached steel blades, introduced in the late 19th century, enabled the execution of figures, spins, and jumps. Today, competitions include men’s and women’s singles, pair skating, and ice dancing, where jumps are not allowed. Skating and ice dancing are also popular recreational activities, allowing enthusiasts to glide across the ice with varying degrees of elegance.

Series: Sport in motion
Value: 0.95 euros / 1.20 euros / 1.90 euros
First day of issue: 22.01.2025
Pre-issue day: 17.01.2025
First day: 1060 Vienna
Stamp size: 40.00 x 32.50 mm each
Perforation measurement: 13½ x 13½ each
Graphic design: Anita Kern
Printing: Joh. Enschedé Stamps B.V.
Printing technique: Offset printing
Quantity: 280,000 stamps on sheets of 50 units each 
  180,000 stamps on sheets of 50 units each
  150,000 stamps on sheets of 50 units each

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