Coxsackie shop makes custom skates for professional speed skaters

COXSACKIE – For years, a local couple has had a hand – and even a foot – in the success of athletes from all over the world.

When you tune in for the speed skating events, pay particular attention to what they’re wearing on their feet. There’s a good chance those skates gliding across the ice in Beijing – were made right here in Upstate New York.

Marchese Racing in Coxsackie has been making speed skates for more than 30 years. In that time, they have helped athletes win more than 130 Olympic medals.

Athletes travel to their location in Greene County for custom fittings and the work begins.

Prices start around $3,000. It takes about 10 months from start to finish.

Learn about how it was a business the founder never actually planned on getting into, by watching the video of Jerry Gretzinger’s story.