A Pinellas Park teen is hoping her roller skating talent in figure routine takes her to the world stage this year for a win.

Caitlin Mitcherson is a busy 18 year old. The college student works a part-time job, and she’s a full-time athlete.

It's a good thing she – quite literally – knows how to balance. And, Caitlin does so as if it were effortless.

“I definitely was born with that natural talent,” said Caitlin, as she prepares to practice her routines at Astro Skate and Fun Center on 66th St. North.

The teen is a competitive roller skater.

“It’s just really fun and interesting, and not everyone does it,” said Caitlin.

It's true the sport isn't as popular as it once was, as it was when Caitlin’s skating inspiration was gliding through competitions.

“My mom, she used to skate back in the day, and she just took me to the rink one day,” said Caitlin.

At age 7, Caitlin was hooked. You'll now find her at Astro Skate, sometimes daily, where she works and trains.

Caitlin has won national gold, silver, and bronze medals. Last year, she made the world team, representing the U.S.A.

“She's grown from someone who wanted to just practice and play, and have a good time, to an athlete who decided, ‘I have to take this seriously, work really, really hard, and make sacrifices,” said Caitlin’s coach, Missy Lingo.

Figure skating also requires intense concentration and strength. Skaters are judged by every turn and rotation.

“I’ve always dreamed to actually win a world championship, so that’s my goal this year,” said Caitlin.

It’s an expensive dream, with costly travel and $1,000 skates.

Roller skaters aren't allowed to participate in the Olympic Games, so the government doesn't assist the athletes. Coach Lingo said the expenses put U.S. roller skaters at a disadvantage in competitions.

“Most people don’t even know that our sport exists. So, it’s hard for us to find sponsors and get them to understand that these are athletes that need help.”

Perhaps a world title might be enough to get some attention. Caitlin said that would be her dream come true.

In July, Caitlin heads to Albuquerque, New Mexico for the qualifier for the nationals.