Interesting.... but this was the video from 1998. The situation has changed in Russia dramatically since then. Parents can now afford a lot more - you get a feeling from reading Russian ice skating forums where parents and adult skaters mention the equipment their offspring gets. There are new stars who are helped financially if they show any signs of greatness. You will see this if you check the background of current Olympic hopefuls. Also, the rinks are offering a lot more as a part of their membership.