Australian Figure Skaters Make History with Bronze Medal at ISU Grand Prix
In a remarkable achievement for Australian figure skating, the dynamic duo of Anastasiia Golubeva and Hektor Giotopoulos Moore has etched their names in history by securing a bronze medal at the International Skating Union (ISU) Grand Prix held in Halifax, Canada. This monumental win marks Australia’s first medal at a senior ISU Grand Prix event, a significant milestone that highlights the growing prominence of the sport in the country.
A Historic Achievement
The bronze medal victory is not just a personal triumph for Golubeva and Giotopoulos Moore; it represents a breakthrough for Australian figure skating on the international stage. Giotopoulos Moore expressed his excitement during an interview with ABC News Breakfast, stating, "It’s been really, really fun. We had a really, really great time. It was a tough competition, but we came out with a pretty decent result. We’re quite happy with it."
The pair showcased their exceptional talent by achieving a career-best score of 64.81 points in the short program, which placed them in third after the initial round. They followed this with an impressive score of 121.33 points in the free skate event, solidifying their podium finish.
Overcoming Challenges
This competition was particularly significant for Giotopoulos Moore, who had been sidelined due to a back injury. Despite this setback, the pair demonstrated resilience and determination, having recorded two fourth-place finishes in the previous season. Their bronze medal at the Grand Prix signifies a pivotal moment in their careers, showcasing their potential at the senior level.
Golubeva, at just 18 years old, and Giotopoulos Moore, 22, have faced numerous challenges on their journey to success. The pair’s path to the World Cup circuit has been anything but straightforward, often requiring them to adapt and overcome obstacles.
A Unique Partnership
The partnership between Golubeva and Giotopoulos Moore is a testament to their dedication and commitment to the sport. Giotopoulos Moore, who hails from Sydney, traveled the world in search of a suitable skating partner before being paired with Golubeva, a talented young Russian soloist. Their connection was forged through a recommendation from their coaches, Galina Pachina and Andrei Pachin.
Golubeva recalls the moment they first met, saying, "I was told: ‘Warm-up and wait. A boy will come.’ I didn’t know what he looked like, only that he doesn’t speak Russian." Despite the initial language barrier, the two have developed a close bond, with Golubeva describing Giotopoulos Moore as "like a second mum."
Training Through Adversity
Their journey has not been without its trials. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the pair found themselves trapped in Russia, resorting to unconventional training methods to stay in shape. They trained off the ice in various locations, including a restaurant, demonstrating their commitment to the sport. Eventually, they relocated to Belarus before settling in Sydney when Golubeva was just 15 years old, moving in with Giotopoulos Moore’s family.
"We have been almost living together for the last four years," Giotopoulos Moore shared. "So we have become very close." This close-knit relationship has undoubtedly contributed to their success as a team.
A Bright Future Ahead
Despite the limited number of international competitions in Australia, Golubeva and Giotopoulos Moore have proven that hard work and dedication can lead to success. They have a bright future ahead, having already made their mark on the world stage. In 2022, they became the third Australian pairing to win a World Junior medal, claiming silver at the Championships in Tallinn, Estonia, and repeating this feat in 2023.
Their impressive track record includes a 10th place finish at last year’s senior world championships, following an eighth-place finish the year prior. With their recent success at the ISU Grand Prix, the pair is poised for even greater achievements in the future.
Upcoming Competitions
Looking ahead, Golubeva and Giotopoulos Moore are set to compete at the Finlandia Trophy ISU Grand Prix event in Helsinki, Finland, from November 15-17. Their journey continues, and with their talent and determination, they are sure to inspire the next generation of Australian figure skaters.
In conclusion, the bronze medal win at the ISU Grand Prix is a historic achievement for Golubeva and Giotopoulos Moore, marking a new chapter in Australian figure skating. Their story is one of resilience, dedication, and the power of partnership, and it serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere.