Elina Goidina: “Leading figure skating countries allow juniors to compete in senior nationals – despite the ISU’s age limit of 17 for moving up to seniors. Why can’t our Federation continue to follow their example?”
Estonian figure skater Elina Goidina expressed disappointment after being not allowed to compete at the national championships due to a new age restriction, questioning the federation’s decision and reaffirming her commitment to the sport.
original source: Instagram
In a heartfelt message to her fans, Elina Goidina shared her frustration and sadness over the Estonian Skating Federation’s sudden rule change that prevents athletes under 17 from competing at the upcoming national championships, despite her strong preparation and recent achievements.
On her Instagram she posted:
“My dear followers and fans,
This week I received news that deeply upset me. And today, this news has spread across all media in Estonia. The Estonian Skating Federation has decided – just a month and a half before the Estonian Championships – not to allow athletes under 17 years old to compete.
As a result, I won’t be able to take part in the championship this year. I’m truly sorry to find out about this only now, because I’ve been preparing for these competitions with the same dedication and seriousness as for any other important events this season.
As stated in the published articles, our Skating Federation made this decision supposedly to support senior skaters (so they would stay in the sport longer) and to protect juniors (so we don’t get injured)…
For reference, leading figure skating countries such as Japan, Korea, and the USA allow juniors to compete in senior national championships – despite the ISU’s age limit of 17 for moving up to seniors. This is done to develop the overall level of figure skating, to help juniors grow stronger, and to keep senior skaters in good shape. I believe Amber Glenn and Kaori Sakamoto are not afraid of competition with junior skaters. And judges in those countries have no problem evaluating athletes of different ages. Why can’t our Federation continue to follow their example?
Until now, we had the same system for many years. I’ve been competing in senior National Championships since I was 11 Y.O. to become stronger. And suddenly, now – when I’m in great shape, at my most competitive age, after showing strong results this month and setting my personal best of 190.91 points in Tartu – I’m not allowed to take part in this competition I’ve been preparing for, where I wanted to fight for the 2026 national title.
Are our senior skaters so weak this season that they’re afraid to compete with juniors? And why are such decisions made in the middle of the season and applied immediately, as our federation comments in the article?
I look to the future with optimism and believe in fairness.
Work continues and I believe in your support”
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