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1 hour 1:1 lesson £40

Following many childhood falls and grazes, I was inspired to return to skating in 2001 when I saw Asha teaching in Hyde Park. Under her watchful gaze I progressed, mainly through group courses, to become an ICP Level 2 instructor – a qualification I’m very proud of as it is as much about ‘teaching’ and imparting ideas and concepts as it is about skating. I’m also a UK Athletics Level 1 Assistant Coach and I’m CRB checked. It’s not just about the paperwork though. I really love skating in London. It’s accessible and it has a thriving social scene. Every time I skate I learn something new, normally from someone who has just (st)rolled up and offered a kind word or two – not something you get amongst most Londoners.

I think I learn as much from my clients as they do from me, sometimes more. Teaching has become a huge part of me and the interactions I have with interesting and diverse people keeps me flowing through my days inspired and smiling. I’m very grateful to my clients for their constant surprises and acceptance of my efforts –  thank you.

2010 has been a very testing year for me personally and professionally, but looking forward into 2011 I have to say I’m very excited! A London Marathon in April; a team to help, assist and motivate at Les Mans 24 Hour Roller in June; Berlin, Cologne and Goodwood inline marathons with London Speed Team (LSST) later in the year; fun trips to Amsterdam and Berlin with clients; and lastly more marshalling on the London-Skate to come. I love it all.

Of course 2011 also sees yet more teaching, including new ideas for Skatefresh. We’re pushing the trips and international elements of skating this year and hoping that clients will join us.

My current aspirations are many and varied. I’m training for my second London Marathon next April, which I hope to complete in less than 4 hours. Skating alongside cycling represents a big method of cross training for my running aspirations and it’s safe to say that skating is a fundamental part of my life.

I’m always available in lots of different venues across London including, Dulwich and Crystal Palace Parks, near Canada Water and of course in Hyde Park and at the Albert Memorial. There’s also the option of weekday evening lessons close to Hurlingham, down on the river near Parson’s Green. I teach on the weekends as well as Tuesday and Wednesday all day and Friday 9.30 – 11.30.

If you recognise me from the pics (thanks mike@skatephoto.com) please come over and say hi or give us a shout as you speed by