Figure skating’s elegant ‘fighter’ Kimmy Repond on turning challenges into beautiful opportunities: ‘Every experience can make you stronger’
On the ice, Kimmy Repond embodies graceful athleticism, her movements light yet powerful, reflecting a unique blend of artistry and determination. Although just 18, she has already faced numerous hurdles in the fiercely competitive world of figure skating—from coping with a demanding growth spurt to navigating availability of ice time.
“Skating is not always straightforward. I’ve discovered that even challenges can birth opportunities,” Repond shares. Her journey has included a foray into modeling, allowing her to balance her passion for skating with new creative ventures. Readers may remember the anticipation building around her aspirations to qualify for the highly anticipated Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics.
Starting skating at age four under the encouragement of her sisters, Repond quickly advocated for her unique approach to training, discovering a rhythm not found in typical curricula. A remarkable growth transition to 1.74m became intimidating; about 30% taller than her peers, doubts crept into her mind about remaining viable in competitive skating. “People often said taller skaters struggle, and it terrified me,” she reflected. With support from Olympic stars, she successfully shifted this narrative from insecurity to empowerment.
After training hours often starting pre-dawn, Repond liberated herself from overcrowded ice rinks, embracing a proactive mindset. The tricks of adaptation not only bolstered her career but also extended to make fruitful decisions when her home rink closed for offseason events like Eurovision rehearsals. “Instead of fearing the lack of ice, I sought training at beautiful foreign locations,” she states—showcasing that every circumstance can prompt growth.
On her artistic endeavors, she mentions how modeling inspired her costumes, emphasizing that true self-expression creates depth in her routines. “Bringing my personality into my performances helps resonate my message,” she adds. “My upcoming routine features themes including ‘Mother Earth,’ both close to my heart and gathered from personal values.”
Behind her talent lies resilience forged through injuries and entrenched battles, most notably, enduring back pain while striving for glory. “Through pain came clarity; sitting out for nearly three months allowed me to build myself back stronger,” reflects Repond. Her story is not just about competing; it embodies a call to thaw away limitations, reinforce health, and transform turmoil into triumph. “Remember, it’s about how we rise as fighters in the face of adversity.”
