Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards has partnered with Chill Factorto host a grassroots talent spotting initiative to seek out the next stars of British snowsports.

On Monday 23rd October, 21 passionate young athletes took to the 180m real snow slope at Chill Factore to showcase their skills to Eddie. With just five places up for grabs on the Chill FactorSponsored Athletes Programme, Eddie was joined on the slopes by Rob Jones, Snowsports Manager at Chill Factore, to observe the potential, willpower and flair shown by the finalists.

The level of skill and passion shown by all the finalists made judging the competition a difficult process for Eddie and Rob who selected five grassroots skiers and snowboarders to join the Sponsored Athletes Programme, which includes twelve months of free access to the slope and training from Chill Factore.

The selected winners are:

William Ashworth, aged 13 – a snowboarder with dreams of competing at national level, William is always ready to take risks and really impressed the judges with his 360° rotations and confidence on the slopes.

Aaron Summers, aged 6 – Aaron took up snowboarding at the tender age of two and practises four times a week. His dedication to his training wowed the judges and even at a young age his potential shone through.

Astrid Brocklehurst-Flynn, aged 6 – a freestyle skier, Astrid took to the slopes like a duck to water. Despite her young age, Astrid has already won three gold medals on the slopes this year and won’t be stopping any time soon!

Reuben Hanks, aged 11 – Reuben began skiing last year after his first holiday on the slopes and hasn’t looked back! Reuben’s dream is to become a professional skier, but he’s also got ambitions to become a sports journalist.

Max Birchall, aged 6 – Max is the least experienced of the winners, having entered the competition with the hopes of meeting his idol. Having thrown himself into intensive tuition in order to take part in the competition, he won the sponsorship with his hard work, determination, and overwhelming positive attitude!

Eddie ‘The Eagle’, Britain’s best-known ski jumper, said: “We received over 100 entries from passionate skiers and snowboarders and were overwhelmed by the standard of the competition here at Chill Factore. We launched this initiative with the aim of recognising talented young athletes and rewarding children with potential, passion and the determination to achieve their dream!

“Every single finalist gave it their all and really impressed us – picking only five winners has proved really difficult! However, I believe our selected five will thrive from the opportunities the Sponsored Athletes Programme will bring them – watch this space!”

Rob Jones, Snowsports Manager at Chill Factore, added: “I was truly blown away by the enthusiasm, determination and potential of all the finalists, both on and off the slope. To so confidently undergo the process of an interview with Eddie and me, followed by a competitive practical selection on the slope, is very impressive. It was very inspiring to see children as young as six showcasing their skills and talking about their love of snowsports so passionately!”

For more information about Chill Factore, please visit www.chillfactore.com.

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