J. Paul Binnebose (born December 17, 1970) is an American former competitive pair skater. He is best known for his partnership with Becky Cosford, with whom he won the 1996 U.S. Figure Skating Championships bronze medal and represented the United States at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano.
Early life and education
Binnebose was born in Fresno, California. He began skating at a young age and pursued the sport through his adolescent years, eventually focusing on pair skating.
Skating career
- Early partnerships: Binnebose initially skated with several partners during the early 1990s, competing in national and international events at the junior and senior levels.
- Partnership with Becky Cosford: In 1995, Binnebose formed a partnership with Becky Cosford. The pair quickly rose in U.S. pair skating rankings.
- 1996 U.S. Championships: Binnebose and Cosford earned the bronze medal at the 1996 U.S. Figure Skating Championships. Their performance secured them a place on the U.S. team for subsequent international competitions.
- 1997-1998 season: The duo competed at the 1997 World Figure Skating Championships, placing 13th. They qualified for the 1998 Winter Olympics, finishing 16th in Nagano.
Injury and retirement
In June 1998, while training at the Ice Castle International Training Center in California, Binnebose suffered a severe head injury after a fall, resulting in a skull fracture. The injury forced him to withdraw from competitive skating and ultimately led to his retirement from the sport.
Post‑skating career
Following his recovery, Binnebose transitioned to coaching and choreography, working with skaters at various levels in California. He has also been involved in public speaking, sharing his experiences with injury prevention and athlete wellness.
Personal life
Binnebose is married and has children. He resides in California, where he continues to contribute to the figure skating community through coaching, mentorship, and occasional commentary.
Legacy
J. Paul Binnebose is recognized for his competitive achievements during the mid‑1990s and for his resilience in overcoming a career‑ending injury, subsequently influencing younger skaters through coaching and advocacy.
