Sarajevo Open Figure Skating Competition

7️⃣Larisa Selezneva and Oleg Makarov: A Pioneering Pair in Figure Skating

Larisa Selezneva and Oleg Makarov's partnership in figure skating began in 1978, orchestrated by their coaches. Their talent quickly emerged as they clinched victory at the World Junior Championships in 1980 and 1981. Their breakthrough came at the 1984 Sarajevo Olympics, securing bronze.

Known for their daring side-by-side triple jumps, they narrowly missed gold at the 1985 World Championships. Makarov's injury before the 1988 Winter Olympics posed a challenge, yet they showcased resilience, earning bronze at the World Championships. Under coach Igor Moskvin, they pioneered innovation in pairs skating.

Off the ice, their partnership extended to marriage in 1987. They moved to New York in 2001, becoming esteemed coaches. Their daughter, Ksenia, followed in their footsteps, representing Russia at the 2010 Winter Olympics. The family became U.S. citizens in 2013, leaving a lasting legacy of excellence and perseverance in the sport.

8️⃣Elaine Zayak: Overcoming Adversity to Champion Figure Skater

Elaine Zayak, hailing from Paramus, New Jersey, turned to figure skating as a form of physical therapy after losing three toes in a lawn mower accident at age two. Despite this setback, she quickly rose to prominence in the sport.

Under the guidance of coaches Peter Burrows and Marylynn Gelderman, Zayak's talent shone early on. She clinched gold at the 1979 World Junior Championships and continued to impress on the senior international stage.

Zayak's groundbreaking performance at the 1982 World Championships, where she landed six triple jumps, including four triple toe loops, earned her the title. This success led to the implementation of the "Zayak rule," encouraging skaters to diversify their routines.

Following her triumph, Zayak faced challenges due to foot injuries and equipment issues, impacting her performances in compulsory figures. Despite setbacks, she secured bronze at the 1984 U.S. Championships and a bronze at the 1984 World Championships. She also placed sixth at the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo.

Transitioning to professional skating in 1984, Zayak later attempted a comeback for the 1994 Olympics, showcasing her resilience. Although she missed the team, her efforts earned her recognition in various sports halls of fame.

Today, Zayak shares her expertise as a figure skating coach at the Ice House in Hackensack, New Jersey, while also representing U.S. Figure Skating. Her legacy lives on through her dedication to the sport and her impact on future generations of skaters.