Army skiing is snow problem

LOOK at him go . . . James Oldham in action

1 More Image(s) In Gallery

IT'S all downhill for Royton soldier James Oldham ­- but that's how he likes it.

The 22-year-old former North Chadderton pupil is currently spectacularly slalom-ing his way through the Army Winter Sports Association Championships and has already claimed the force Infantry Alpine Championships title ­- known as the Ex Frosted Blade ­- in Val-d'isere, France, earlier this month.

James, a lance corporal in the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, won the competition ahead of around 250 competitors.

Elite

At the start of this week he was in ski pole position during a series of downhill disciplines in the Ex Spartan Hike which involves competitors from all branches of the British Army and produces the crème de la crème of their skiing elite.

It's a very impressive achievement for the Royton lad, currently stationed in Cyprus, who had never set foot in a pair of skis until he joined the army five years ago.

"He was looking at the activity board in the barracks and spotted skiing," said his dad, Steve, workshop manager at Medlock Joinery.

"He thought he'd give it a go and took to it like a duck to water. In his first year he won the British Army novice of the year. He absolutely loves it but its tough.

"You have to be very fit to take part and he doesn't do any practise until a couple of weeks before a championship.

"As a family we're so proud of what he's achieved."

James has spent the last four Christmases away from his family due to his participation in the AWSA championships which take place in various ski resorts around France.

If he continues with his winning streak he will be out there until early February and depending on his success he could be in with a chance of being picked for inter championships.

You can keep track of his progress by following the link www.awsa.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/SeedingGS_Hill1.pdf.