My name is Holly Hoyland, I am 18 years old and I am a short track speed skater.

Due to recent events UK SPORT are no longer funding GB Short Track, this is where I would be grateful for your help.

My journey started when I was just 8 years old at a public skating session being spotted by an ex Olympian who is now also my club coach Mandy Worth. From that day on I have gone from strength to strength.

I began competing internationally from the age of 11 and have had numerous podium finishes within domestic competitions including overall British champion in 13/14 season.

In 2017 I was selected to represent Team GB at the European Youth Olympic Festival in Erzurum, Turkey where I achieved PB’s in all 3 distances that I skated. That same year after a number of tests relating to speed,strength and stamina I was accepted onto the gbstss academy which was set up to help those with potential, gradually transition from club to world class level with help and support from experienced coaches and staff. While being on the academy programme I have learned so much and put a lot of hard work and training in it would be a shame for me to fall at the last hurdle when I have trained and dedicated all my time to the sport to get to where I am today.

My goals for this season are to achieve my times to qualify for the junior world championships in canada and then working towards my ultimate dream of competing at an up and coming olympic games within the next 8 years.

A new programme is being set up to replace the World Class Programme but unfortunately will come at a cost so any help I receive would be put towards training fees, equipment, travel or accommodation costs and would be greatly appreciated.