April gets her skates on to pick up silver

Nov 23 2009 by Gavin McInally, Paisley Daily Express

SKATING starlet April Hunter conquered Eastern Europe after she was selected to represent Great Britain at a prestigious competition.

The 15-year-old figure skater, from Paisley, impressed judges at the International Skating Union’s Skate Celje competition in Slovenia with a stunning performance that earned her the silver medal.

The result was a massive success for the dedicated teenager, who was making her international debut.

And April, who is a Fourth Year pupil at Gleniffer High School in Paisley, was delighted to bring a medal back to the UK.

She told Express Sports: “I was really excited about taking part in this competition.

“It was my first international event and it is a massive achievement to take second place.

“It was a great experience and one that very few people are selected for.

“I would say that it is probably the biggest event I have competed in to date.

“It was very exciting to be part of it all.”

Talented April has been skating since she was just seven years old.

And she really came of age against competitors from around Europe at the contest held in Slovenia.

Her proud mum Karen said: “April has always loved skating.

“It has been one of her goals to represent Great Britain.

“Now that dream has really came true.”

April currently skates for East Kilbride Ice Figure Skating Club and is coached by Yvonne and Silvanna Cameron.

She trains four or five times a week at the Olympia Centre ice rink in East Kilbride in preparation for competitions.

April added: “I enjoy it so much.

“It is hard work at times, with early starts during the week and at the weekend.

“However being selected to represent your country and bringing back a medal makes it all worthwhile.

“I have just started back at school and have my prelim exams this year.

“But the school has provided me with some fantastic support, even if it means having to study while I am away at competitions.”