A YOUNG Poole skier has his eyes firmly set on a podium finish as he prepares to step on to the slopes at the upcoming English Alpine Ski Championships in Italy.

Callum Ross, 13, will compete across three disciplines as he chases a national title in Bormio, racing in the slalom, giant slalom and Super G in the under-14 age category.

The English Alpine Championships are a week of national-level racing and skiing camaraderie, featuring the best English skiers in the country, ranging from under-10s up to senior athletes.

The Bournemouth Collegiate School pupil is no stranger to the Bormio slopes, however, having raced at the championships before – including finishing on the podium two years ago.

But having experienced disappointment on the snow last year, Ross – who races for the British Ski Academy – is determined to show what he’s capable of.

“I have competed at the English Championships before, and I’ve really enjoyed it, but I haven’t had the success that I would like,” he said.

“I got on the podium in 2015 but in 2016, I did not do so well in my first year as an under-14. Last year, I failed to complete a Super G course, which really hacked me off, but I plan to set the record straight this year.

“My target this year is to gain more race experience, and continue the success that I had in the Anglo Scottish races in January where I got a second and third place. My dream would be a race selection for Team GB.

“Competing in Bormio is amazing, because the resort has so many different runs and fantastic scenery. The races are well organised and the competition is always fierce.”

Starting on Saturday, 350 of the best English Alpine skiers will descend on Bormio, Italy for the 21st English Alpine Championships, organised by national governing body Snowsport England.

The English Alpine Championships continue to feature the rising stars of alpine skiing in England, previously acting as a platform for the likes of Chemmy Alcott and Dave Ryding.

And as his love for his sport continues to flourish, Ross has big ambitions for his future on the slopes.

“I started skiing at the age of two, when my family bought a chalet in France,” he said. “Over the past two seasons I have been lucky enough to train with the British Ski Academy and have been happy with my progression.

“Skiing really is a sport for everyone, and I just love being in the mountains. My dream goal would be to race on the World Cup circuit, but for now, I would like to consistently improve on what my coaches believe is appropriate for me and my racing.”

Follow the English Alpine Championships on the Snowsport England Facebook page and get live updates on Twitter @SnowsportEng. Full results will be available at www.snowsportengland.org.uk while you can find your nearest slope offering value-for-money GO SKI GO BOARD sessions at www.goskigoboard.org.uk