Holly Bugbee, 17, is from East Haddam, Conn.  She skates for the Charter Oak FSC and is coach by Holly Viall, who is also her choreographer.  She attends the Nathan Hale-Ray High School.  Bugbee finished 5th at the 2003 New England Regional at the Junior level and 5th at the 2002 New England Regional at the Novice level.

When and how did you begin skating?
When I was in 1st grade, I wanted to do gymnastics with some of my friends.  But I was born with a problem affecting both of my hands, and even though I had several corrective surgeries, my mom knew gymnastics would not be possible for me and she suggested I take up skating instead.

Who has influenced your skating the most?
Each of my coaches has influenced my skating and me as a person in their own way.  From my beginning coach, Cheryle Brody, to my current coach, Holly Viall, each has taught and encouraged me throughout my skating career.

Who are your favorite skaters?
My favorite skaters are my friends at the rink who come day after day - the ones who never seem to receive recognition for their hard work and commitment to the sport.  My favorite skaters are the ones who never fail to say hello and give a smile to their friends and competitors.

Do you have a favorite jump, spin and connecting movement?
My favorite jump would have to be my double axel off of a back spiral - even though it was a difficult element to master, it was worth it!  My favorite connecting movement is a spread eagle and my favorite spin is a layover camel.

Do you have a most memorable/or embarrassing skating moment?
I have many memorable moments - most were times spent with friends at competitions.

What are your long-term goals in skating?
I would like to compete at the National level.

What are your goals for this coming season?
My goal for this season is to land my triples in competition, to place at Regionals, and compete at Sectionals.

Are you planning to compete this summer at club competitions? Will you be competing as a Junior?
I have several competitions planned for this summer as a senior, but my coach has not decided which level I will compete in for Regionals.

What music are you planning to use?
My short program is a song called "Se" from Cinema Paradiso and my long is from the play "Miss Saigon;" both of my programs were cut and edited by my brother.

What elements do you have planned for your programs?
I have several triples as well as some unique spins and footwork planned for each of my programs.

What do you love about skating that brings you back to the rink day after day?
I love the challenge of pushing the limits that skating presents and the aspect of striving for the best day after day.