Figure skater Graham Newberry wants to follow in his father’s footsteps when he takes to the ice at the European Youth Olympic Winter Festival in Romania.
Newberry’s father Christian won men’s gold at the British Championships back in 1989 and 24 years later he is in Brasov coaching his 14-year old son.
Newberry will be in action against competitors up to four years his senior in the men’s event, which begins tomorrow with the short programme.
That will be followed by the free programme on Friday and Newberry, who lives in Pennsylvania with his family, is determined to live up to expectations.
“I want to skate as well as I can and see how well I place, all I can do is focus on my own performance,” said Newberry.
“My position and everything that comes after that is entirely down to the judges and the other competitors but I’m focused on giving it my very best shot.
“My brother and I are both skaters, we have always wanted to follow in our father’s footsteps. I have been to three international competitions before this one but this will be my first one travelling and competing with Team GB.
“It makes me very proud to be representing the same country as my Dad and I’m looking forward to getting out on the ice.”
© Sportsbeat 2013