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ALBANY, GA. -- Olympic short track speedskater Anthony Lobello made a stop in Albany to encourage a group of young skaters to follow their dreams.

The Inline Roller Speedskating Invitational was held at Stardust Skate Center on Ledo Road.

"GT Speed," a team representing Southwest, Georgia, was coached by Yamill Collazo.

Although the team didn’t make first place, those who skated say it wasn’t all about winning. They believe the experience alone will pay off in the end.

Anthony Lobello supported a team from Tallahassee, Florida where he started at the age of seven.

“You don't all of a sudden become good. You have to start when you're young,” said Lobello.

Since inline skating set him on a path to world championships and Olympic success, parents and coaches are hoping their children take Lobello's advice and go on to follow in his footsteps.

Stardust Skate Center offers free skate lessons and safety classes on Saturday mornings at 10:00 a.m.