Skater takes need for speed overseas

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - Local in-line speedskater Christian Keesler will fly to Europe, Tuesday, to compete in the France World Tour.

The 14-year-old fell into the sport when his father, a former speedskater, started coaching a speedskating team at Bell's Skating Rink in New Haven. Christian has already impressed many in the skating world, picking up gold medals at several national competitions, and a coach from Michigan who will accompany him to Europe.

"(I'm) super proud. You can't imagine," said father Chris Keesler. "I wish I could do what he could do at his age, but I couldn't. So, I'm living through him."

 On Tuesday, Christian will fly to Germany, where he will train for the France World Tour. It will give him the opportunity to face top in-line skaters from around the world.

"I want to skate for the U.S. and represent," said Christian Keesler.

Keesler's big dreams come at a big price. His trip will cost around $3,500, plus equipment expenses. To help cover the costs, the Keesler's have been holding fundraisers, including one at Bell's Skating Rink this past Saturday. To date, they have raised half the amount needed. The rest will come out of their pocket. Chris Keesler says it's a big price, but worth what he and his son call priceless.

"I can't wait to put on the uniform for the U.S.," said Christian Keesler.