+ Elena & Ruslan +

+ Elena Grushina was born January 8, 1975 in Odessa, Ukraine. She began skating at age 4 (in 1979) and before skating with Ruslan had one previous partner for two years named Mikhail Tashliski. After the two years, Mikhail went of to school and Elena was paired with Ruslan in 1990.

+ Ruslan Goncharov was born January 20, 1973 in Odessa, Ukraine. He began skating at age 6 (in 1978) and was partnered with Eleonora Grinsaya for 1 year. Leonora had health problems and Ruslan was then paired with Elena.

+ Other Facts:

- Elena & Ruslan have been married since 1995.

- Both started taking ballet as children.

- Their favorite compulsory dances are waltz and tango. Least favorite is killian.

- Ruslan's younger brother, Artur, is an ice dancer.

- They like to skate programs that will keep the audience remembering their skate.

- Their favorite competition trip was the 1998 Nagano Olympics.

- They were very proud to represent their country at the Olympics. They also enjoyed watching other sports events at such a large competition involving not only skating.

- They appreciate all of the flowers, gifts and stuffed animals that are thrown onto the ice for them. Everything means a lot to them. They wish to thank all of the fans and people who follow figure skating for their support.