Spotlight on a Legend: Angeline Thomas 30 Years of Dedication to Inline Speed Skating

Chris Bowling
Apr 16
3 min read

Updated: Apr 18

🔥 From Logan to the World

From a school fundraiser skate night in Logan to the global stage of elite competition—Angeline Thomas has built a legacy 30+ years in the making.

She’s raced at World Championships, dominated the World Games, and competed for elite international teams across Europe, Asia, and South America.

From marathons to sprint stages, Ange has racked up top 10s, podiums, and stage wins—including a 4th-place finish in a World Final.

She’s lived and trained in Colombia, raced for powerhouse teams in Holland and Germany, and is now shaping the sport itself as a member of the World Skate Technical Commission.

Now based back home in Logan, Angeline continues to give back to the sport that shaped her life.

💬 "Back when I was an 11-year-old kid from Logan, I never imagined this is where life would take me—but here we are."

📣 Full Interview: Angeline Thomas

Q1: What first drew you to inline speed skating?

I started skating through a local fundraiser promoted at Harris Fields Primary School. It was at the old Argonaut rink in Slacks Creek. Even though it was a school night, my parents took me—and I was instantly hooked. Despite my friend splitting her chin that night (and a hospital trip), I couldn’t wait to go back. A coach noticed me flying around the rink and said I was fast. That night I told Mum, “I want to be a fast speed skater.” And here we are—30 years later.

Q2: What major changes have you seen in the sport and club?

The biggest shift has been in equipment and rink availability. I began on quads during the transition to rollerblades. Rinks used to be packed, but that changed quickly. At a club level, Logan City Speed lost the Argonaut rink and moved to Browns Plains, sharing sessions with the Revolutions Team.

Globally, the World Championships moved from quads to inlines. Tracks evolved, distances were modified, and gear saw major innovation—from wheel size (76mm to 125mm) to frame design. These changes made us faster than ever before.

Q3: What are some highlights from your skating career?

In 1999, I raced my first States, Nationals, and Junior Worlds in the same year—landing 17th in the 300m TT in Chile. From there, I won almost everything at Oceania, competed in Worlds until 2017, and finished 4th in a World 1000m final. I also raced at the World Games (Top 5 result).

I joined Team Unive Stouwdam in Holland, won stage events, then raced for CadoMotus, making podiums on the World Cup circuit. I also raced for German teams and won the Duisburg Marathon and Hamburg Half. Later, I returned to Australia and raced with Takino International, winning across Asia until I retired.

Q4: What were your favorite places to skate?

That’s tough! Europe for the history, Asia for the food, and Colombia for the culture and passion for skating. When I lived in Colombia, I had five tracks within walking distance and trained with pro cyclists. The vibe there is unreal.

Q5: How do you balance all your roles in the sport?

It’s definitely a juggle, especially with work. But I’m passionate about skating, and I contribute however I can. I believe it’s one of the best sports in the world, and I want the next generation to experience it.

Q6: What’s the future of speed skating in Logan City?

Bright! With new tracks, a strong club, and experienced leadership, we’re well-placed to grow. I see Logan becoming a hub for top-tier talent.

Q7: What keeps you motivated after all these years?

Skating shaped every part of who I am. It taught me discipline, resilience, teamwork, and how to face pressure. It’s helped me in life and in my career. That’s why I stay involved—it’s part of me.

Q8: What advice would you give to young skaters?

Back yourself. People will tell you that you can’t—be the one who says you can. Respect your teammates, officials, and even opponents. That’s where the real memories come from. Dream big and keep pushing forward.

🙌 Thank You, Angeline!

Your story is powerful, inspiring, and a testament to the magic of skating. Thank you for your continued passion, mentorship, and impact on our sport and our community.