Ice Stars Head East
Two local figure skaters will be heading to Eastern Europe this winter after receiving and international call up to represent Great Britain. Michael Kerr and Alice Hopkinson who both skate for Billingham Ice Skating Club and are members of Tees Active Sports Academy.16 year old Alice will be competing in Budapest in Hungary in December and 18 year old Michael will be competing in Slovakia.
Both skaters who train at the Billingham Forum Ice Arena and are coached by Alison Laws were delighted with their selection but it was a double celebration for Michael who celebrated his 18th birthday this week.
These talented teenagers have been training hard throughout the summer, skating at least 6 days per week with Alice winning the Ladies Short Programme at the Hull Open in July.
Alison Laws who us one of the resident ice professionals at Billingham Form said “This is tremendous news for both Alice and Michael and will definitely spur them on as they are also training hard for the British Championships in November. Having the ice available at the Forum and the opportunities to access the off ice facilities will ultimately assist in improve them as skaters.”
Michael Kerr added “ This is a perfect birthday present and now that I’ve finished my A levels I will be 110% focused on my skating and like Alice I am really looking forward to the season.”
For further information on Tees Active Sports Academy contact Allan McDermott on (01642) 528772