Skating: 10 year old Primrose Hill School pupil Rio Carasco crowned British champion in his age group

WHEN it comes to winning trophies in double-quick time, speedster Rio Carasco has really got his skates on. 

Within just 18 months of taking up inline speed-skating competitively, the triumphant 10-year-old has been crowned British champion in his age group. 

Rio, who lives in Camden Town, has been in unstoppable form in what is only his first full campaign, winning a host of top trophies including the British Outdoor Championships and the British Marathon Championships. 

The Primrose Hill School pupil couldn’t hide his delight, or confidence, as he talked about what has been a sensational season: “It’s really exciting being the best in the whole of Britain, I’m very proud of myself. When I’m going around a corner really fast I have to give it my very best, otherwise I might not win. 

“I first started skating when I was three because it was an after-school activity in Portugal, but I’ve only been competing for about a year and a half. I’m really enjoy it, the sport and the success it has brought me has given me lots of confidence.”

Rio is targeting further success in the future, but is more than happy to play the waiting game as he prepares to adjust to a tough new challenge. 

“I will be moving up to a new age category next year, which will be much faster and harder,” he said. “I know I’ll have to up my game. It’ll take time getting use to competing against older boys, but I’ll try my very best.”

Coach Fred Houinato, who trains Rio at London Skaters Speed Team, is confident that his star pupil will rise to the occasion.

 “He is very dedicated, and comes to every training session. 

“He is doing very well for his age, and has great potential because he is a lot more mature than what you would expect from someone so young. 

“Compared with the rest of Europe speed-skating is a small sport in the United Kingdom.

“But it’s growing here all the time.” 

Published: 21 July, 2011
by STEVE BARNETT