In this years Stars on Ice program there is a pull out section. There is a picture of each member of the Stars on Ice family, and on the back there is a message from the skater to their fans. I was touched by a few of these messages, and so I thought I would share them with you. Please be patient while the photos load...they are well worth the wait.
Isabelle Brasseur
"After so many years of amateur and professional skating, I can honestly say that my best feeling is whenever Lloyd and I finish a performance and I see one or more of you, our fans, standing and applauding our efforts."
Lloyd Eisler
"I love to skate because of the feeling in my heart when I am performing and I dream that this feeling could be felt by all those who dare to challenge their dreams. Throughout the years, there has never been a more rewarding place to be than in front of you the fans. Though there have been many highs and lows, and you have seen all sides of my character, you still support me. For this I thank you."
Josée Chouinard
"My skating has always meant everything to me. Two years ago, I experienced some disappointments and I was at the lowest point of my career but you still came to see me skate and gave me your support. Today, I've grown from that experience and I feel stronger and happier than ever before. I'd like to thank everyone for giving me the chance to do what I love the most. A mon plus grand plaisir notre rendezvous est en fait (ou pratiqement) devenue une tradition."
Brian Orser
"Throughout my ten years of professional skating I've had many great moments, and to have been part of the growth of Stars on Ice has been one of the most rewarding. What has been constant is the loyalty of you, the fans. Thanks for always being there.
Victor Kraatz
"Everything that I am and everything that I have in my life comes from the great support of the people I am surrounded by: family, coach, skating partner and friends. Talent will only get you so far. An ability to do something amazing has to be nurtured by people who can see a potential diamond in the coal."
Kurt Browning
"When I went to the rink as a kid to practice my goals were to be a bit better than I was yesterday and to enjoy myself - the most important being the second one! There have been a few hard times along the way, but all of them were worth it. Now that I am part of this touring family, whom I love so much, I have come full circle in my skating career. I am once again going to the rink to be a bit better than I was yesterday and to enjoy myself. Thank you for inviting us skating gypsies into your lives for one night...we love you all for it."
Elena Betchke
"When I was fourteen years old, I was lucky enough to see a pair of Olympic and World Champions in my home city of Leningrad. I was inspired. They were so beautiful and athletic that I dreamed I could one day join them on the ice. Those skaters were Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, and today I'm so honored to be skating alongside them."
Denis Petrov
"As a boy I tried many sports - soccer, swimming, cross-country skiing - but I decided to become serious about figure skating because it allowed me to do everything I loved to do. It was athletic and creative, with the body and mind working together at the same time. In Russia, the audiences are quietly and politely appreciative. Nearly ten years ago, when Elena and I first performed in front of big North American audiences, the spectators were so noisy and enthusiastic that we were scared. Now, we love to hear you because we know that's your way of telling us how much you appreciate what we're doing."
Jayne Torvill
"Your appreciation of our skating has always been special to me."
Christopher Dean
"It is good to be back in my second home."
Steven Cousins
"It is a dream come true for me to be a part of the Stars on Ice family. Canada is very special to me and you, the audience, have given me soooo much. Time to give back! Thank you.
Ekaterina Gordeeva
"Skating has always been my life. When I lost Sergei, I never thought I would skate again, but thanks to your constant support, love and encouragement, I am proud to step on the ice every night with the most wonderful group of skaters - my extended family. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to perform for you and for making me feel so special. Without all of you, we could not create this show."