Get to Know Elena Radionova

No one is lighting up the world of figure skating quite like Elena Radionova. She was the first ladies skater to win two World Junior Championships. She then strung together an impressive list of accomplishments in her first season on the senior level, including four gold medals, a second-place finish at the 2015 European Championships and a third-place finish at the 2015 World Championships. We had a chance to catch up with the No. 2 skater in the world—and we thought you might like to get to know her.

Why did you start skating?

It was my father, Igor, who showed me figure skating. I had some problems with my feet at a young age, so I started skating to help with that. I kept with it and decided to take it seriously. Now it’s my life. It’s what I love to do. It’s pretty hard sometimes, but I know nothing comes easy in life. It’s also really good for traveling around the world.

What countries or cities do you still want to visit?

I was in Minnesota and New York this summer, and I’ve already been to Chicago and Detroit for Skate America competitions, but I want to visit other big cities in the United States like Los Angeles and Las Vegas. I also want to visit Australia and Canada.

What was the first place you visited outside of Russia?

I had been on trips to various countries with my parents, but the first competition I had outside of Russia was in Italy about five years ago.

What was your favorite memory of skating growing up?

Probably the most exciting memory is my first competition because I won first prize. It was unexpected and surprising. I was five years old. I just went out there and did my best.

What do you like doing off the ice? What are some of your hobbies?

I don’t have much free time, but when I do, I like to go to the cinema and meet my friends. I also like to take my dog Martel for walks.

What was it like competing at your first World Figure Skating Championships on the senior level?

Actually it was my first time at the senior level for any competition. The worst part was that I came down with a fever. I got it before the short program and felt really weak. I couldn’t do some of the more challenging elements. That’s why it was hard for me to compete and do my best. But it was a good lesson. It showed me that I should never give up.

For more information on Elena and Riedell, visit ice.riedellskates.com. You can also follow Elena on Instagram @lenok_radionova.