A SCHOOLGIRL who dreams of competing at the Olympic Games has claimed a major title.
Amy Morris brought back first prize from the 2015 British Figure Skating Championships at Sheffield after scoring highest in the Basic Novice B Ladies’ category.
It leaves the 11-year-old third in the latest national rankings.
“We’re incredibly proud of her,” said mum Debbie.
“Her coaches think Amy has lots of potential, and believe she could go far in the sport.”
The Knutsford Academy pupil travels for training from her home on Manor Crescent to Altrincham five mornings a week.
She returns there when classes end at school in the afternoon.
“Her teachers have been so supportive,” added Debbie.
“They let her take time off for training, and she fits in homework around her schedule too.”
Amy tried skating for the first time when she was five, and made her debut at a competition the following year.
The 11-year-old emerged as victor at the end of a tough competition during the national championships with a total of 36.75.
Runner-up Sophia Nasser and third-placed Esther Carruthers, both three years older, were close behind in a 39-strong field.
“Amy was a natural from the start,” said Debbie.
“She loves to take part in competitions, and has done so well to rise from ninth in the national rankings last year to third in 2015.”
Amy Morris, centre, shows off the gold medal she won at the British Figure Skating Championships in Sheffield. Picture: DIGITAL PHOTO EVENTS
Part of governing body National Ice Skating Association (NISA) of Great Britain’s development squad for talented skaters since she was eight, Amy is now waiting to discover if she has been selected to represent her country on the international stage.
The family is seeking the support of a sponsor to help cover the cost of travel and fees.
Debbie said: “That’s the next step.
“I just want her to have the same chance as the other skaters.
“Ice skating in this country isn’t well-funded.
“We’ve done well to get this far with the help we’ve had, but it gets harder.”
If you would like to sponsor Amy, or would like to find out more about how you can support her, email Debbie Morris at tessdeb@aol.com
To watch her winning routine, click here: http://bit.ly/1ork8f9
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