Student Skier Represents Wales at National Schools Snowsports Competition
On Friday, 26th April, Year 9 student, Miles Justice, represented the school at the National Schools Snowsports Association’s Ski Race Finals held at Gloucester Ski Slope. Schools from all over the country competed in the event, many of whom have their own ski teams who train weekly in addition to race-specific training sessions with their ski clubs. 140 skiers qualified for the finals and Miles was placed in the U16s category, including skiers from years 9,10 and 11.
Miles qualified for the competition by securing first place at the regional qualifiers in Swadlincote in January, given the level of competition, and the fact he was one of the youngest in his category, he wasn’t anticipating troubling the podium. After a fantastic first run, however, he found himself in the silver medal position much to his amazement!
He gave it everything on his second and final round, putting in a brilliant run, improving on his first time but ultimately he was nudged into fourth by 0.4 seconds in an amazingly close race.
Whilst disappointed, as making the podium would have seen him make the national squad, he wasn’t too despondent given his initial expectations were that he’d have a chance of making the top 10.
Miles has been dedicating his time to skiing regularly since he was 8 years old, attending Sharks Ski Club most Saturday mornings, as well as entering a number of race events at a number of venues where he’s enjoyed success. He gets the chance to practice through the poles most weeks but is happy to try out any drill or exercise just to improve his technique and enjoy himself – basically he just loves to ski!
He is now keen to share his passion for the sport with others and is now in the process of becoming a ski instructor – even convincing some of his WHS peers to join him at Sharks Ski Club. So watch this space as there may even be a school ski race team in the future!
Lisa McCall Headteacher said: “Miles is an all-round top student, who always performs with commitment and drive. Some might say there isn’t much Miles can’t do! He is a talented, but caring young man and a pleasure to have at Wales High School. Staff always speak highly of his calm and generous nature and during a recent skiing trip, he was often seen giving his time to support and coach other students who were beginners in the sport. As Headteacher, I am grateful for the way in which he role models all the qualities we would want in all students at Wales. Miles is a credit to himself and his family”.
