OKSANA GRISHUK

Along with partner Evgeny Platov, Oksana Grishuk is the only ice-dancer to ever win two Olympic Gold medals (1994 & 1998). Oksana expected to go on to a professional career with her partner of ten years, but things did not go exactly according to plan.

"My partner left me right after the "Champions on Ice" tour for no reason," contends Oksana, "Behind my back, not even telling me anything about his plans to skate with another skater. It was a huge shock for me to find out the news from a "Time Magazine" reporter."

Oksana blames her coach, Tatiana Tarasova, for orchestrating the split, claiming that Tatiana knew she would make no money if Oksana and Evgeny turned pro, and so she encouraged Evgeny to find a new partner (Maya Usova) whom Tatiana would then coach.

Although her professional life did not turn out the way she expected, Oksana nevertheless reports, "My life is wonderful now. I enjoy every day and even every moment. People seem to still recognize me for my accomplishments. I get so many compliments and so many warm and kind words from people who remember my skating, and love me not only as a skater, but also as a person. Sometimes I invite handicapped children to skate with me, and when I see the joy and happiness on their faces it makes me so happy.

"I also have a daughter of my own. She was born in August of 2002, and her name is Skyler Grace. We have so much fun together. She is the best thing that ever happened to me. We live in California and we love going to the beach, shopping, seeing movies and dining out. I am the happiest mom in the world and Skyler Grace is a happy little girl. She is my a little angel."