Introducing Vlada – National Figure Skater

My name is Vlada and I’m a Year 9 student and a national figure skater. I’m writing this article to give you a recount of my recent trip to Europe and share my amazing, albeit challenging, experience travelling overseas during Covid 19.

I intended to undertake this trip last year, but that failed miserably after the resurgence of Covid 19. This year, after qualifying for the Junior Grand Prix again, we decided that I couldn’t let the same opportunity go. This decision was made right before the second Sydney lockdown, around June/July 2021, so I hadn’t expected to be off the ice for over three months before competing. However, planning still continued and as did training, only now off the ice. After around 3 months of eagerness and excitement, off I flew, on September the 3rd, leaving behind my family and friends.

I’d like to pause here and take a moment to thank some people. First of all, the biggest thanks to my parents. Without them, I never would’ve even stood in skates, let alone travel across the world, representing my country. Secondly, I’d like to thank my amazing coach, who took great care of me while I was away and who is working hard with me through my failures and successes. Thirdly, I would like to thank FSHS for adjusting to my spontaneous trip and allowing me this opportunity. Finally, I’d like to thank all of my friends for their endless support and encouragement, as sometimes you’re the reason I want to get up at 4:30 am to skate in a freezing ice rink.

Anyway, on we go. The first few flights to Budapest, Hungary were definitely the most stressful and energy consuming. The cancellation of flights, mixed with jet lag, a blocked card and a lack of taxi drivers willing to drive us across the country definitely isn’t a nice blend. But we made it to our new home safe and sound, slightly ruffled by the past events, but with a positive outlook on what was to come. I spent a month in Budapest, struggling to get used to the ice in time for my first competition, but somehow I managed. First up was the competition that was the base of the entire trip, Junior Grand Prix in Linz, Austria. My skates weren’t the best, but they were definitely a good start to another three competitions coming straight after. This was one of my most valuable experiences, as I met so many amazing skaters from all around the world, starting from the USA, all the way to Russia. Attending such a prestigious competition gave me motivation to work even harder and I am so grateful that such an event had my name written on the entry list.

Next up was Budapest Trophy, a competition located in the very rink I had trained in for the past month. My skates were gradually getting more consistent and by this point I had achieved the qualifying scores for both the short and the free program for Junior World Championships (which will be held next year, if not postponed or cancelled). A moment I remember from this particular competition, was the opportunity to meet and watch Anna Scherbakova, the World Champion, perform her beautiful programs. As one of my figure skating idols, it was incredible to watch such an amazing skater live in the grandstands. Budapest Trophy was a success and off I ventured to France for the third competition of the journey.

Nice, France was definitely my favourite location in Europe as a tourist. The ice rink had a huge window on one entire half of the venue, with a spectacular view across the city. France was also my favourite competition to participate in. My nerves were under control and I had two solid skates. One day I wish to visit Nice again, for there is still lots left to explore and learn.

Finally, I reached my final destination, Riga, Latvia, where I presented my final programs. It was around this time that I began to truly miss home and it became a matter of getting on my flight as soon as possible rather than focusing on my final performance. Either way, I successfully completed my final competition and sat exhilarated on my final flight with an ending destination of Sydney.

In terms of Covid 19, as time passed by, flights and travel became a lot easier, as the frequent testing and constant masks became the norm. Flying became more promising, as we seemed to actually reach our seats in the plane for the rest of our flights. Covid 19 has definitely been affecting the skating community, just as much as everyone else, so to be able to accomplish such things during this time is a true achievement.

Now, back at home, I continue to work and look forward to what’s to come. I take my trip as something to cherish, value, and remember. It was an eye-opener to what hard work can return to you.

Vlada Vasiliev