Skiing soldier slaloms his way to glory

Soldier James with the ski trophy

ROYTON isn't renowned for producing high-calibre skiers.

But it can now make just such a claim after soldier James Oldham was crowned British Army Alpine Ski Champion at just 22, clinching an avalanche of accolades.

Incredibly the former North Chadderton pupil, who beat the Army's elite to clinch the coveted title last week, only put on a pair of skis for the first time four years ago.

He won three out of the four disciplines in the Army Winter Sports Association Championships Ex Lions Challenge, in Chantemerle, France, claiming firsts in giant slalom, super giant slalom and downhill races. He qualified for the annual competition after winning the force's Infantry Alpine Championships title ­- known as the Ex Frosted Blade - in Val-d'isere, in January.

James, a lance corporal in the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, who flew back to be with his family in Oldham before heading off to where he's stationed in Cyprus, has spent the last three years dreaming of winning the event in which there were over 90 competitors including those from the highest ranks of the army who have years of experience on him.

"I've spent the last few years trying for it but this year I just took to it for some reason," said James, who was one of the youngest competitors.

"I think I wanted it more this time.

"I'm chuffed and all the lads are buzzing for me back in Cyprus."

At the end of the tournament James proudly lifted his prize - the Royal Green Jackets Cup.

The achievement normally secures a place in the army's Inter Service Championship team to compete alongside the top skiers from the RAF and Royal Navy, but this year's race schedules clashed so he missed out on the opportunity.

"I'll probably go back next year and do another competition and hopefully make it through to qualify for the inters then," said James who has sacrificed the last four Christmases with his family to take part in the alpine events which start in early December. His ski team captain, Lieutenant Jonny Voigt, said: "His achievement having only started skiing four years ago is quite astounding and fantastic. James is a real talent and really benefits from a lack of any sort of fear.

"He's definitely in the top 10 of the best skiers in the army and the Inter Services selectors say he's definitely in contention to make the team and want to make sure he competes in the army team next year."

His dad, Steve, workshop manager at Medlock Joinery, said: "It is only this year that I have realised what an achievement is to compete, let alone win.

"To say he had never seen a pair of skis until four years ago makes it even more unbelievable.

"James is not a bragger in any way and will always play down his achievements. He is a son to be proud of, not because he has won this, he just is."