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KIDS' QUESTIONS

May 2003

U.S. senior men's competitor Parker Pennington takes on the kids press and answers the questions you sent in!

Q: How did it feel to skate so well at the U.S. Championships this year, and how did it feel to compete against Tim Goebel and Michael Weiss? Alexandra Soro, 11, Miami; Christina Harris, 15, Stillwater, Okla.

Parker Pennington

A: It had to have been the most memorable moment of my life so far. I was so excited to have skated a clean free skate at The U.S. Championships, and it was just the greatest feeling in the world. It was an honor to be competing against so many great skaters.

Q: Which of the many titles that you have won means the most to you? Jamie, 17, Tucson, Ariz.

A: I would have to say winning the junior title. I had to fight back after a disappointing short program and show what I was made of. It was a test of courage, determination and adversity. I just wanted to go out and show that I belonged up there.

Q: When did you start skating? How old were you when you got your double Axel and first triple jump? Kandyce, 15, Anaheim, Calif.

A: I first began skating at the age of 3. My mom, brother and I all moved to Cleveland so I could train with Carol Heiss Jenkins at the age of 9. My dad had to stay back in Connecticut with his job so he could pay the bills for my dream of one day becoming an Olympic champion. When we moved my brother, Colin, decided he wanted to start skating as well. And this year he won the U.S. novice title.

I landed my first clean double Axel at 11, and I landed my first clean triple jump (Lutz) at 12.

Q: How long do you practice each day? What type of off-ice training do you do? Michelle, 13, Falls Church, Va.; Adam Bilchik, 12, Berea, Ohio

A: I train on-ice for three hours a day. I combine that with several ballet lessons a week, and I workout once a week. All of this is very important to maintain good lines and artistry, athleticism and to prevent injuries.

Q: Congratulations on making it to such a high level and achieving such amazing goals! When you are training, how do you remain focused? Becky Fitzgerald, 17, Australia

A: I have always been focused on the task at hand, and I try my best to achieve that goal. When I go out there, I am going to give 110 percent. I've worked so hard for everything that I guess I'd say the focus is just naturally there.

Q: I read that you are a volunteer coach for Special Olympics. Why do you enjoy working with the Special Olympics? Lindsey Packer, 15, Howell, Mich.

A: Yes, I am a volunteer for Special Olympics. All of the kids have the determination and attitudes of champions. They are so excited to be skating, and as a coach I can't help but love to coach them and watch them develop.

Q: I love getting attention, and I would love it if I was famous. Do you enjoy all the attention you get from all your fans, or would you rather not get so much attention? Malka, 12, Chicago, Ill.

A: I love the attention. I've wanted to show off what I could do since I was little, and that has not changed. When you love skating as much as I do, you just want everyone else to know it as well.

Q: What is your favorite jump and spin? Bianca Butler, 13, Lake Arrowhead, Calif.

A: My favorite jump is the triple Lutz. It was the first one I got, and it has been the most consistent for me. My favorite spin is the pancake. I am always trying spin variations, and once I tried this one, I loved it.

Q: What are your plans after skating is over? Where do you want to go to college? Catherine Anderson, 12, Boston, Mass.

A: After my amateur career, I would love to do ice shows. I love skating so much that I want to be able to do it as long as I can. After that, possibly coaching. I will attend college this coming year, and I am looking to major in sports management.

Q: Do you have a girlfriend? Katie, 14, Cincinnati

A: No, I do not. With as much as I am doing with skating, I don't have enough time in my schedule to fit any girls in right now. Relationships require a lot of work, and it is just too difficult. Skating is my focus now and is my true love.

Q: How do you think you've become successful enough to capture titles on almost every single level? Jade, 14, Miami, Fla.

A: I attribute it to hard work and determination. I believe anything is achievable if you want it badly enough. You must know what you need to do, and do it. Your coach will advise you on what to do in order to obtain it, but you as a skater must also be aware of what needs to be done. Also, staying positive has always helped me. If no one else believed in me, it didn't matter because I believed in myself. I think that is the most important thing of all — believing in yourself.

Q: Has your mother played a supportive role in your skating career? Chelsea, 15, Tampa, Fla.

A: She has always been my biggest supporter. I can't say enough about what she has done for me. She moved across the nation away from my dad just so I could pursue my dream. Her love and devotion to me is one of the most important things in my life. If it wasn't for her, I wouldn't be where I am today.

Q: How does it feel to have your younger brother, Colin, following in your footsteps? Isabella, 16, Cleveland

A: It has been wonderful. Not only is he a great skater, but he's a great person as well. We are the best of friends, and that really helps. We challenge each other and just enjoy what we do. It is a little friendly rivalry that has helped us both tremendously.

Q: Who is your favorite female figure skater? Tiffany, 18, Toledo, Ohio

A: I would say Tara Lipinski. I love her attitude and her fight.

Q: What are your goals for next year? How's the quad jump coming? Lynn, 13, California

A: I would like to win the World Junior title and go to Worlds. It will be a challenge, and it's one I'm looking forward to. I'm working on the quad salchow, and it's coming nicely. I would love to have it in the short this year.