#JacksonFamily Interviews ft Colin Grafton
The #JacksonFamily is a large family of skaters wearing Jackson product. Whether it be Matrix Blades, Ultima Blades, Jackson Skates or GAM Skates, skaters are encouraged to tag #JacksonFamily in their social posts and be a part of the largest skating family, from recreational to elite! Innovation, Development and most importantly FUN are the core fundamentals of #JacksonFamily.
In our interview series, we wanted to go behind the scenes and talk with some of our skaters to get to know them a little bit better!
Today, get to know Colin Grafton, a citizen of the World and Professional Figure Skater! Colin competed pairs alongside Kylie Duarte for the USA. In 2012 they were the US Nationals Bronze medalist. Since his departure from competing, Colin travels the world performing in shows. Here is a little bit about his journey:
Thanks for taking the time out of your hectic schedule! Colin, tell us a bit about yourself, where you came from, how long you’ve been skating, training grounds, etc.
My name is Colin Grafton, I am 25 years old and I started skating when I was 8 years old. I am currently on a European tour with Holiday On Ice. I was born in Providence Rhode Island, and grew up in Massachusetts. When I was 18 years old my pairs partner and I (Kylie Duarte) moved to Colorado Springs to train under Dalilah Sappenfield. We previously trained in Massachusetts at the Colonial Figure Skating Club, under Debi Leeming, Bobby Martin, Carrie Wall, and Sheryl Franks.
The daily rigors of a professional skater can yield many memorable moments! In your professional career, what has been your favorite part of the journey, as a choreographer or skater?
In terms of my professional career, there are many memorable moments. I truly love performing around the world in different countries and cities, each bringing me a different memory and sense of accomplishment. One of my fondest memories is having my family In Europe watching me perform in a sold out show in Germany.
As a choreographer, this year I had the opportunity to work with the Ocean State Ice Theatre led by Sarah Mirza DiNardo and Kristen Souza. Along side Nobahar Dadui, I had an amazing time working with the talented team of girls on choreography and movement. It was fantastic to work near my home, where my entire career started.
When you are on tour, what is a typical day in the life of Colin?
We wake up and have breakfast before 10:00a, shower and head to the venue. There are rehearsals or warm ups depending on the day, followed by a 30 min warm up ice for myself and others. Hair, make up, costumes and notes follow. Depending on the day we can have up to 3 shows! Afterwards, we’ll pack up, head to dinner and relax before another day of shows! It can get tiring, but it keeps me in good shape!
Because you are performing all the time, what have been some obstacles you’ve faced?
Like many professional athletes and skaters especially, injury tends to be the most common and difficult obstacle to overcome. I have had to deal with a few minor injuries myself throughout my amateur and professional career, and I think this is definitely the most difficult obstacle I have overcome.
Even though we can find you on the all ice all the time, you must have some free time! What are some of your hobbies outside of skating?
I love dining in all different types of restaurants; trying food from all parts of world. With that comes the traveling and exploring, which luckily skating allows me to do! I also love singing and acting.
⚡Lightning Round⚡️
Favorite Food? Pizza
Window or Aisle Seat? Aisle all the way!
If I Were An Animal, I’d Be A: Giraffe
Favorite Jump? Triple Salchow
Favorite Place You’ve Competed? Innsbruck, Austria
What does #JacksonFamily mean to you?
#JacksonFamily represents something more than just a successful and world renown a company. #JacksonFamily is a family of professionals and amateur skaters dedicated to athletic and professional excellence both on and off the ice. Being in an outstanding group such as #JacksonFamily is an honour in which I am truly happy to be a part of.
