Skating to the nationals

Riley, Ella and Tyla Birkett.

Life's better on roller skates - or so say the Birkett family of Egmont Village.

Ella, 9, Riley, 11, and Tyla, 15, joined the world of figure roller skating only two years ago and the trio are now preparing for New Zealand Roller Sports Artistic Championships.

"When you're skating, it feels like you are flying," says Ella, the youngest sibling in the Birkett family.

The family first gave skating a go two years ago at the East End Skating Rink in New Plymouth.

"They have an Early Birds programme where you can go along to see what skating is about and give it a go," says Tyla. "Once you get the hang of it, skaters are invited to join the figure skating club Skate Sports Taranaki."

The family competes in three styles of skating - Dance, Free-Style, and Creative Solo Dance - which Riley says gives them the chance to perform strict laid-out routines as well as create their own and develop their individual style.

Riley says to compete at the national competition, skaters must have previously earned a placing at a regional event as well as have the backing of their coach.

For Ella, 2017 will be the first chance to compete at a national level.

"I am really excited. I have already been working on my routines for the competition."

For Riley, there is no better feeling in the world than finally nailing a routine.

"Skating gives you are real sense of achievement. It's a great sport to be involved in as you don't have to be a natural at it, you just have to commit to it and you can reach your goals."

While the siblings are hard at work in preparation, they are also working hard to raise funds to get them to the competition.

Through the skating club the family have held skating nights and quiz nights as well as selling Anderson's Pies.

Tyla says on December 12 there will be a Christmas themed open skating night at the East End Skating Rink that is also a fundraiser for club members headed to nationals.

"It's a great chance to give skating a go. You don't even need your own skates."

- For more information on Skate Sports Taranaki check out www.skatesports.org.nz