Cameron Thomas is just one in a long line of talented skiers to have honed their skills in the unlikely setting of the English Riveria.

The 12-year-old is a member of Torquay Alpine Ski Club, formed in 1963, making it the oldest outdoor ski slope in Great Britain.

In 2009 Thomas won six consecutive National Championship titles and secured 22 podium finishes from his 29 races.

On Monday, 15 February the youngster will return to competitive action at the English Championships in Bormio, Italy.

And with a succession of medals already behind him Thomas is now hoping to build on his earlier performances.

It's a partnership with dedicated coaches, really committed parents, and children who really want to take part Chris Tonge

He told BBC Spotlight: "Around the UK the standards are really high, and some skiers are members of the GB team.

"My ambition would be to go to the Olympics and get some gold medals, and get some points."

As to how to achieve his ambitions, Thomas's theory is a simple one.

He said: "You just need to train, train and get good results."

Thomas is setting his certainly sights high as are fellow club members Katie Eden and Hamish Johnston, who will also be out in Italy at the English Championships.

Eden, 14, came second in her age group at the Scottish Children's Championships in Courchevel, France last Easter, whilst 12-year-old Johnston is the current reigning champion at the English Indoor Championships.

Eden is hoping to make it all the way to the Winter Olympics

Eden said: "My ambition is to go to the Olympics and do well and probably bring home some medals."

The trio are both hoping to follow in the footsteps of the club's most successful skier, Jai Geyer, who is the current British Under-21 giant slalom champion.

Chris Tonge, the head coach at Torquay Alpine Ski Club, believes he may have found the perfect formula to get youngsters flying down the slopes.

Tonge said: "It's a partnership with dedicated coaches, really committed parents, and children who really want to take part in the sport, be brave in the sport and give it a go.

"It's that partnership with all those three factors working together that creates the success we've achieved over the years."

With that in mind Torquay Alpine Ski Club looks certain to continue developing young skiers into talented athletes, one of whom may one day make it all the way onto an Olympic podium.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version