– Could it happen that a talented but already quite mature young woman, after competing in singles, comes to you and says: "Tamara Nikolaevna, I want to switch to pairs"? Would you teach her?
– If this young woman possesses technically difficult elements - at least two triple jumps - if her appearance fits pair skating, and her height-to-weight ratio is good, then why not? We can teach her within a season.
– But we had Alena Kostornaia. Would you have taken her?
– I wouldn’t have.
– Why?
– Because I want to stay in good health until I’m a hundred years old.
– A comprehensive answer... I don’t even know what to say. Straight to the point.
– She and her partner have a coach who is working with them.
– In your opinion, does Kostornaia have better potential as a singles skater or as a pairs skater?
– She has good motor skills and strong technique, so she is a good pairs skater. But to become truly great athletes, skaters need to develop a strong connection with their partner and the ability to overcome psychological challenges.