Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Kerr set for top skating test
Coatbridge figure skater Monica Kerr is about to compete in her highest-level competition yet, but mum Claire says she’s chilled out about the prospect.
Monica, 14, will compete in the Reykjavik Cup on January 23, part of the Reykjavik International Games in Iceland, which will be simultaneously the biggest competition she has ever taken part in, and her first event abroad.
The North Lanarkshire Figure Skating club star first took up the sport three years ago, but working with coach Gemma Chaddock since September 2018 has accelerated her development, moving her from Level 3 to Level 8 in just over a year.
GP mum Claire says Monica is looking forward to the event, but is also taking it in her stride.
“This is the biggest event she has taken part in. She has taken part in international events before, but never abroad.
“Everyone is quite excited about going to Iceland, which is somewhere I’ve always wanted to go to.
“We fly from Edinburgh on the Tuesday, she has a practice session on Wednesday, and competition on Thursday.
“She then has the British Championships in April.”
Being a sporty teenager, and the parent of one, brings with it sacrifices, and Claire says Monica is extremely dedicated.
“It’s amazing how we’ve become accustomed to early morning starts,” said Claire.“It’s almost impossible to sleep late now!
“If it’s a skating session at the Time Capsule in Coatbridge (with North Lanarkshire Figure Skating Club) we leave Hamilton at 6am, and if it’s Stirling Figure Skating Club it’s 5.40am – and there are weekends as well, but you get used to it.
“It’s all worth it. Monica’s fitness levels are extraordinary, she goes on endurance tests at school and only one boy can beat her. Her aerobic fitness is massive.
“I think anybody competitive likes to do well, but she’s quite chilled about it, and does seem to really enjoy skating. She never complains about anything, and we don’t put too much pressure on her.”