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RIF: It takes a lot of practice to be a champion figure skater. When do you find the time to read?
Rachael Flatt: My schedule is pretty hectic, but I do find time on weekends to read. I also read when I am traveling for skating competitions, and of course during the summer!
RIF: If you could be any book character, who would you want to be? Why?
GO: I would like to be Lucy Pevensie from The Chronicles of Narnia, as her character is very brave, creative, curious, and willing to take chances and explore the unknown. Sometimes in skating, you have to step beyond what you are comfortable with, much like Lucy does in Narnia.
RIF: You've traveled all over the world. What's the coolest place you've been?
RF: I have traveled internationally quite a bit for skating, but my favorite trip was a visit to Italy a couple of years ago. I went with my junior high class to Venice, Pisa, Vinci, Florence, and Rome. We saw Leonardo da Vinci's home, the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, the Forum, the Coliseum... and the food was fabulous, too!
RIF: We hear you're a fan of Project Runway. Who is your favorite contestant and why?
RF: That is a tough question–each season of Project Runway gets better and better. From this past season, Leanne did amazing work with her "wave/ocean theme." From season four, Christian created beautiful clothing. No doubt about it–he is "fierce!" And Laura Bennett (season three) could design skating dresses...her beading is fabulous!
RIF: Do you think reading helps you to be a better ice skater? How?
RF: Reading allows me to take my mind off my daily training regimen. It also helps my ability to focus on a specific task, which is really helpful for skating.
RIF: You're in high school now. What do you want to do after you graduate?
RF: I would like to finish my amateur skating career and then go to college, as I am very interested in science. My favorite classes this year are A.P. biology and A.P. chemistry.
RIF: Have you set any New Year's resolutions?
RF: Get my braces off! I also hope to maintain my straight-A average in all my classes. I have my SAT and ACT tests coming up this spring and I hope to do well.
RIF: What advice do you have for kids who are interested in getting involved with ice skating?
RF: No matter what sport or extracurricular activity you choose, you have to have FUN. I absolutely love skating! And yes, it is hard work to train six days a week and balance my school work, but I love skating!
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