Teenage speed skater aims for 2030 Winter Olympics

A Surrey teenage speed skater says he likes the adrenaline rush of being on the ice as he targets the 2030 Winter Olympics.

Albie Barlow, 16, said he wanted to win medals and dreamt of representing Team GB, having picked up speed skating when he was seven-years-old.

The Guildford-based speed skater will head to Georgia and then Quebec to compete as he continues to take strides towards the 2030 games in France.

His parents, Jonathan and Sharron Barlow, said they were "extremely proud" of the teenager as he balanced training with his education.

The teenager said: "You don't know what can happen in a race, it's an adrenaline rush.

"I'm going to go to Georgia and Quebec for an experience and have the best time I can.

"It's been my dream to be on Team GB. It's a lot of practice, a lot of hours and a lot of dedication."

Albie picked up speed skating at the Spectrum Ice Rink in Guildford, but said he initially gave up before returning a year and a half later.

He added that he trained twice a week on the ice in Guildford before taking the train to Nottingham for extra sessions.

Albie said he balances training with studying as well as off-rink training in the gym.

Mr Barlow said: "He's been ambitious since he was 11 or 12. I'm sure if he keeps working hard he'll achieve his ambition."

Mrs Barlow added: "His enthusiasm and drive is out of this world."

Albie travelled to the European Youth Olympic Festival on 8 February, and will compete in the Junior World Cup speed skating in Quebec from 21-23 February.

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