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Tomas VernerCzech figure skater competing in men's singles skating,
Date of Birth: 03.06.1986
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Content:
- Tomáš Verner: A Czech Figure Skating Legacy
- Early Life and Career
- Breakthrough
- European Triumph
- Grand Prix Success
- Olympic Setback
- Crisis and Redemption
- Personal Life
Tomáš Verner: A Czech Figure Skating Legacy
Tomáš Verner is an eight-time Czech national champion and the 2008 European champion in men's single skating. As of June 2011, he is ranked 9th in the International Skating Union (ISU) standings.
Early Life and Career
Born in Pilsen, Czechoslovakia, Verner began skating at the age of five. At the age of 12, he moved to Prague for further training. He won his first Czech national championship in 2002, and that same year, represented the Czech Republic at both the European Championships (where he placed 14th) and the World Championships (where he failed to qualify for the free skate).
Breakthrough
In 2007, Verner experienced a breakthrough in his career. At the European Championships in Warsaw, he finished second to Brian Joubert, becoming the first Czech medalist at the event since 1992. At that year's World Championships in Japan, he placed fourth.
European Triumph
The following year, Verner made history as the first Czech men's single skater to win the European Championships. At the 2008 World Championships, he was fourth after the short program, but missed several jumps in his free skate, ultimately placing 15th.
Grand Prix Success
In the 2008-2009 season, Verner qualified for the Grand Prix Final for the first time in his career, finishing fourth. He then placed sixth at the European Championships and fourth at the World Championships, securing two spots for the Czech Republic in men's singles at the Vancouver Olympics.
Olympic Setback
Verner's Olympic season proved disappointing. He failed to qualify for the Grand Prix Final and only participated as a replacement for the injured Brian Joubert. At the Final, he finished last.
Crisis and Redemption
The crisis continued after the Olympics. Verner lost the national championship to up-and-comer Michal Březina, placed 10th at the European Championships, and finished a disappointing 19th at the Olympics. He did not participate in the World Championships, despite the Czech Republic's two qualifying spots.
In May 2010, Verner announced a temporary split from his coaches, Michael Huth and Vlasta Kopřivová. He prepared for the season in training camps in the United States and Canada while searching for a new coach. In October, he signed with Canadian specialist Robert Emerson.
Personal Life
Tomáš Verner has an older brother, Miroslav, who competed internationally in pair skating at the junior level, and a younger sister, Kateřina. He speaks English, German, and some Russian. Verner splits his training time between Prague, where he attends university, and Oberstdorf, Germany, where his coach Michael Huth is based.
