TSL: Interview With Caitlin Yankowskas

            Caitlin Yankowskas is one of the brightest talents in United States pairs skating. During the 2011 competitive season she won a National pair title and captured a sixth place finish at the World Championships with partner John Coughlin.  Despite the team's promise and success, following the 2011 World Championships Yankowskas suffered a devasting career setback when Coughlin chose to end the partnership.  At a time when even the most seasoned athletes could have crumbled, Yankowskas managed to take the setback in stride and used it to strengthen her personal resolve and dedication to the sport. 

            Balletic and expressive, Yankowskas is regarded as a fan favorite by many. The 2011 National Champion faced great difficulty finding a suitable partner at the zenith of her competitive career, despite obvious talent and a history of accomplishments. She spent a year training without a partner before teaming up with Joshua Reagan in Spring 2012. Yankowskas says the wait was worth it, and she and Reagan then began the arduous process of creating a successful partnership with the Sochi Olympics just under two years away. With the skating world holding its breath for their competitive debut, Yankowskas and Reagan were forced to withdraw from Sectionals and Nationals this year after suffering various setbacks and injuries.

            Yankowskas is currently healthy and eager to compete.  During our interview, she spoke about her unique look on the ice, her past successes and heartbreaks, her promising new partnership and how she's learned how to put the ups and downs of life into perspective.