Alexander Zaitsev (pair skater) facts for kids

Alexander Gennadyevich Zaitsev (born 16 June 1952) is a Russian retired pair skater. He represented the Soviet Union in competitions. He is famous for his amazing partnership with Irina Rodnina.

Together, they became two-time Olympic champions. They won gold medals in 1976 and 1980. They also won six World titles and seven European titles. Their coaches were Stanislav Zhuk and later Tatiana Tarasova in Moscow. From 1973 to 1980, they won every single event they entered. They are still known as one of the most successful pair skating teams ever.

Skating Career Highlights

Forming a Champion Team

In April 1972, a coach named Stanislav Zhuk suggested Alexander Zaitsev as a partner for Irina Rodnina. Irina was already a big star. She had won four World championships and an Olympic gold medal with her previous partner. Alexander was three years younger than Irina. He was also less experienced, but he learned very quickly. Alexander came from Leningrad, while Irina was from Moscow.

A Memorable Performance

At the 1973 World Championships, something unexpected happened. The music for Rodnina and Zaitsev's short program suddenly stopped. Even with no music, they kept skating with amazing focus. They finished their routine in silence. The audience was so impressed that they gave them a standing ovation. They still won the gold medal! They beat their rivals, Lyudmila Smirnova and Alexei Ulanov, again in 1974.

Changing Coaches and More Wins

In 1974, Rodnina and Zaitsev decided to train with a new coach, Tatiana Tarasova. They continued their winning streak. Together, they won six World titles in a row. They also earned seven European gold medals. Their first Olympic gold medal together came in 1976.

A Short Break and Final Victory

Rodnina and Zaitsev did not compete during the 1978–79 season. This was because Irina was expecting a baby. Their son was born in February 1979. They returned to skating in 1980. They won their second Olympic title together. This was also Irina's third Olympic gold medal. After this amazing win, they retired from competitive skating.

After Competition

After he stopped competing, Alexander Zaitsev became a coach. He also helped with the administration of the sport for some time.

Personal Life

Irina Rodnina and Alexander Zaitsev got married in April 1975. Their son, who they also named Alexander, was born in 1979.

Results

Irina Rodnina and Alexander Zaitsev performing together.

Here are the results of Alexander Zaitsev and Irina Rodnina in pair skating:

See Also

In Spanish: Aleksandr Záitsev (patinador) para niños

• USSR at the Winter Olympics

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