Positive Start for Albie Barlow at Junior World Cup Opener in Astana

Albie Barlow began his 2025‑26 season in strong fashion at the ISU Short Track Junior World Cup #1 in Astana, Kazakhstan, recording a 14th place finish in the 500 m and 20th in the 1000 m(1). Competing among the world’s top junior short‑track skaters, Barlow demonstrated solid form and competitive composure across three intense days of racing.

Albie Barlow's performance in focus

Despite arriving only on Thursday and coping with jet‑lag and a whole new racing environment, Albie delivered results that reflect both talent and potential. His 14th place in the 500 m places him just outside the top 12 — a strong platform to build on. The 20th in the 1000 m(1) came in a deeper field, and the experience he gained by racing alongside and analysing the top junior skaters will serve him well.

Commenting on the weekend, Albie’s coach remarked:

“It’s a new experience for Albie coping with jet‑lag after arriving only on Thursday, as well as adapting to difficult ice conditions during the competition. But the experience and getting to analyse the other racers puts him in a good place to make a step up in next week’s competition.”

What’s next

With the first World Cup stop completed, Albie will carry his momentum into the next round in Astana later this week. The priority now is to convert experience into upward movement — aiming for finals qualifications and tighter finishes.The event in Astana has provided a perfect launch pad: a rigorous environment, fast ice, and world‑class competitors to benchmark against.

We’ll be tracking Albie’s progress closely and sharing updates via the British Ice Skating website and social media channels. Stay tuned as the GB short‑track team continues their campaign for the season!