What Is 2016-2017 ISU Junior Grand Prix

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 2016–2017 ISU Junior Grand Prix was a series of seven international figure skating competitions for junior-level athletes, held from August 31 to December 11, 2016, culminating in the Junior Grand Prix Final in Marseille, France.

Key Facts

The 2016–2017 ISU Junior Grand Prix spanned 7 events from August 31 to December 11, 2016
The Final was held in Marseille, France, on December 8–11, 2016
Skaters earned points based on placements to qualify for the Final
Events included disciplines in men’s singles, ladies’ singles, pairs, and ice dance
Top performers at the Final included Alexandra Trusova and Dmitri Aliev

Overview

The 2016–2017 ISU Junior Grand Prix was a season-long series of international competitions designed for up-and-coming figure skaters under the age of 19. Organized by the International Skating Union (ISU), it served as a crucial development platform for future senior-level stars.

This circuit featured seven events across different continents, allowing junior skaters to gain international experience, earn ranking points, and qualify for the prestigious Junior Grand Prix Final. The series played a vital role in identifying emerging talent in men’s singles, ladies’ singles, pairs, and ice dance.

Seven events were held between August 31 and October 16, 2016, in countries including France, Germany, Poland, and Japan, providing global exposure.
Skaters earned ranking points based on their placements, with only the top six in each discipline advancing to the Final.
The Junior Grand Prix Final took place in Marseille, France, from December 8 to 11, 2016, marking the culmination of the series.
Disciplines included men’s singles, ladies’ singles, pairs, and ice dance, each with strict age and eligibility requirements set by the ISU.
Notable future champions such as Alexandra Trusova and Dmitri Aliev competed, showcasing skills that would later define their senior careers.

How It Works

The ISU Junior Grand Prix operates on a points-based qualification system, where skaters accumulate points from their best results to earn a spot in the Final. Each event is hosted by a different country and judged under ISU regulations.

Qualification: Skaters earned points based on final placement, with only the top six in each discipline qualifying for the Final.
Age Limits: Competitors had to be at least 13 but not yet 19 years old before July 1, 2016, ensuring a consistent junior field.
Scoring System: The ISU Judging System was used, with technical elements and program components scored separately by an international panel.
Event Distribution: Seven events were strategically placed across Europe and Asia to promote global participation and competitive balance.
Advancement: Skaters needed to compete in at least two events, with their best two results counting toward qualification points.
Final Format: The Final featured the top six point-earners in each discipline, competing for medals under intense international scrutiny.

Comparison at a Glance

A direct comparison of the 2016–2017 Junior Grand Prix with prior and subsequent seasons reveals key trends in participation, scoring, and athlete development.

Season	Number of Events	Final Location	Notable Skater	Top Discipline Performance
2015–2016	7	Barcelona, Spain	Vincent Zhou	Ladies’ free skate record: 127.39 (Alina Zagitova)
2016–2017	7	Marseille, France	Alexandra Trusova	Men’s short program: 77.25 (Dmitri Aliev)
2017–2018	7	Nagoya, Japan	Alena Kostornaia	Ladies’ short program: 70.16 (Trusova)
2018–2019	7	Vancouver, Canada	Yuma Kagiyama	Men’s free skate: 174.08 (Yuma Kagiyama)
2019–2020	6	Turin, Italy	Kaori Sakamoto	Pairs throw jump height: average 6.2 ft

The data shows consistency in event structure, though scoring levels rose significantly, especially in men’s and ladies’ singles, due to increased technical difficulty. The 2016–2017 season marked a turning point with the emergence of skaters who later dominated senior competitions, validating the Junior Grand Prix as a talent incubator.

Why It Matters

The 2016–2017 ISU Junior Grand Prix was more than a stepping stone—it was a launchpad for future Olympic and World champions. Its structure ensures fair competition and global representation, shaping the future of figure skating.

Talent Pipeline: The series identified future stars like Trusova, whose triple Axel and quad jumps signaled a new technical era.
Global Reach: Hosting events across four continents promoted inclusivity and raised the competitive standard worldwide.
Development Platform: Skaters gained experience under pressure, preparing them for senior ISU Championships and the Olympics.
Scoring Evolution: High scores in 2016–2017 reflected the increasing difficulty of jumps and spins in junior programs.
Media Exposure: Broadcasts and live streams increased visibility, helping skaters build early fan bases and sponsorship opportunities.
Rule Testing Ground: The ISU used the series to trial judging adjustments before implementing them at senior levels.

By combining rigorous competition with developmental goals, the 2016–2017 Junior Grand Prix reinforced its role as a cornerstone of international figure skating. Its legacy endures in the careers of those who began there.