After watching his older brother Nick take centre stage last month at the Sochi Winter Olympics, figure skater Joe Buckland hopes it will not be long before he joins him in the international spotlight.
The 21-year-old recently returned from competing in the World Junior Figure Skating Championships in Sofia where he and partner Olivia Smart finished tenth with a score of 121.01.
Three-time British national junior champions, the pair have enjoyed a successful season, winning bronze at the Bavarian Open and NRW Trophy while also getting the chance to perform alongside Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean at the 30th anniversary Bolero gala in Sarajevo, Bosnia.
Next year they will step up to the senior category moving Buckland closer to competing on the same level as his older brother, who finished tenth in Sochi alongside Penny Coomes on his second Winter Olympics appearance.
And after enjoying his experience in Bulgaria last week, Buckland junior was eager for more on the big stage.
"We were really pleased with the results. We were aiming for the top ten before we went to the competition and to come away with that as the result finished off the season really well,” said Buckland.
"We have also qualified two entries for Great Britain in the Dance event at next year's Junior World Championships, along with more Junior Grand Prix events available to send our junior dance couples.
“The competition was great. Everything from the ice stadium and hotel to the people involved made it a fantastic experience and one we will never forget.
"Olivia and I are now moving up to the senior category and aim to compete at the World and European Championships next year."
© Sportsbeat 2014