	AllExperts > Figure Skating
	Search

About Dianne DeLeeuw
Expertise
I can answer questions about figure skating, choreography, ISI or USFSA. Also questions about competing (my Olympic experience or your own competition). I`m a National referre for ISI. Recently I also have been appointed a National Technical Specialist for US Figure Skating. But remember I am not your substitute for a coach! They can see what you are doing! To correct or instruct you on manuevers is really not what I want to do.

Experience
Experience: World Champion and Olympic Silver Medalist, coaching all levels of skaters at in California. I coach all levels and ages of skating from tiny tots to adults, first timers to International competitors. I also do choreography, music editing, teach specialty classes and give seminars.

Organizations: USFSA, ISI, PSA, Los Angeles Figure Skating Club

Publications: Recreational Ice Skater, The Edge

Awards: 1976 Olympic Silver Medalist, 1975 World Champion, 1976 European Champion, 6 time National Champion, US and Canadian Double Gold Medalist, 1999 ISI Great Skate Award, 2002 Woman of the Year

You are here: Experts > Recreation/Outdoors > Figure Skating > Figure Skating > Am I too old to become an Olympic Figure Skater?

Figure Skating - Am I too old to become an Olympic Figure Skater?

Expert: Dianne DeLeeuw - 9/11/2009

Question
Hello Dianne!
I was wondering if I am too old to want to be an olympic figure skater. I am 18, just taking my first couple of lessons and about to get my first pair of skates.
My only problem is that, and my family is a bit tight on money (I can only afford classes that are about $15 per half-hour), and I would love to get a job so I could get my own coach (but these times were in...jeez.) It would be nice if I could afford for my own coach, but I guess I will stick with the lessons I have for now. Not unless if you have any other suggestions, much would be appreciated.
Thank you for your time. :)

Answer
Hi,
Bravo to you for starting to figure skate! It will be a great adventure to become the best you can. Starting with a group class is a good way to learn basics.
Unfortunately starting at 18 you are not realistically going to make the Olympics. But there are competitions for all ages and skill levels. Check the US Figure Skating website for more information. Also www.skateisi.ogr is good for starters.
Good luck,
Dianne

Add to this Answer Ask a Question