First of all, I would like to start by saying this was a great competition, with near clean performances from many of the top skaters. I was so impressed by the level of competition and the way the up-and-comers skated tonight. It really shows the depth and future of men's skating.
Adam Rippon - starts by stepping out of his triple axel, but was nearly perfect throughout the rest. His second 3A was a beauty, and his only other mistake was on the three jump combination. Like his training partner Gao, he got a little too close to the boards. His spins were solid, and his interpretation was really nice. It's unfortunate he bombed the SP, as his PCS were most likely lower than if he was skating in the last group. 153.78
Richard Dornbush - Great interpretation, doesn't look juniorish at all even though he was on the JGP circuit this year! He is really the future. His triple axels were beautiful, and he did not take one wrong step the entire program. Good PCS for a relative unknown in the second last group. He deserves to go to worlds after this performance, and I think he should go to gain the international experience. 157.85, and he wins the FS overall!
Armin Mahbanoozadeh - Looks nervous - I would be too after hearing those scores Dornbush got. Lands the lutz, which he fell on in the SP. Great transitions and choreo in between the elements. More of an introverted style than Dornbush. He is another up-and-comer to look forward to in the future. I really like his second flip out of the spread eagle and his choreo steps. Unfortunately, his poor short program held him back. 148.28. I think the PCS were a little low compared to the previous two men.
Ross Miner - I like his outfit. Interesting to start with the step sequence, but it sets the mood for the program. Nice 3A and Lutz combo! Wow another clean skate from a future contender (internationally - he is already a contender nationally). I really like his elegance and poise throughout the program. He is a well rounded skater, and I think he will really make a splash in the future! 156.36.
Jeremy Abbott - Beautiful interpretation but his worst skate of the season. He didn't even hold his spins. I am upset, and I hope he comes back next year even if he doesn't get the international assignments he was hoping for. This competition reminds me of the Ladies LP at 2008 Nationals, with the up-and-comers all skating great programs and Kimmie falling off the podium. I just hope Jeremy pulls an Alissa and gets himself together for next season with a new outlook. 145.77, PCS saved him.
Ryan Bradley - Down on both quads (sort of), which were under rotated but not judged as such. Even Scott noticed. Nice save on the 3A+3T, but he is SLOW. He will not receive these types of scores internationally, and if it wasn't for his lead in the SP, Dornbush would be the US champion. 151.51
I did not comment on Douglas Razzano or Keegan Messing, as I don't have much to say about their skating. I think Richard, Ross, Armin, and Adam has more potential and more to bring than either of these two men.
Overall this was the most unpredictable Nationals in recent history, and I really wonder who will get what assignments.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Saturday, January 29, 2011
U.S. Nationals - Ladies LP Part 2
The final two groups were broadcasted on NBC, so the general public got to see a range of performances.
Alexe Gilles - Landed a lutz and a flip, the rest of the program was not so good. Her skating and spins were WAY too slow for someone competing on the GPS, and I don't think she will be given two assignments next year based on this years' results. 76.00
Caroline Zhang - Looking slimmer in her new costume, which is much more flattering for her body type. Nice triple flip combo to start, followed by a couple of falls, a couple of slowish spins, a nice triple loop double axel sequence, and a spiral. She makes another mistake by popping open the second flip, and it looks like it hurt. She may want to consider changing that into a triple toe, seeing as she is not doing triple triple combos now. She lands a nice three jump combo, does some stuff going 5 mph, and ends with a fast layback including a pearl. She started off slightly faster than before, but her components reflect the fact she has no transitions in her programs. 92.47
Joelle Forte - Lands an impressive number of triple jumps, but her program was terribly boring. 102.25.
Yasmin Siraj - Girl needs to eat something. It is gross. She lands some stuff, but her skating looks weird because she is so gangly. 102.56.
Morgan Bell - This was her first senior nationals, and it was clear she was feeling the pressure of making the top 10. Not her best. 69.84.
Ashley Wagner - Looks confident before the program. Starts off strong with a triple flip double toe, followed by a double axel triple toe that was two footed and under rotated. She comes back strong with a huge triple lutz, but she didn't hold the edge like she did in the SP. Combo spin, spiral, fast death drop. She is really attacking the choreo and interpreting the music - she is giving it everything she has, knowing it is probably her last performance of the season. Nice triple loop combo and triple sal, but a little under rotated on the solo triple loop and gets too close to the boards on the flip. OK footwork, solid positions in final spin. I wish she would attack the SP the way she does it in the LP, because she has to dig herself out of a hole every time, and this time, it wasn't enough. 110.73.
Vanessa Lam - Nice triple lutz combo to start, followed by a flip. She does not have the maturity of Ashley or Alissa, but she is landing the jumps. Great layback and combination spins, but she could use more speed going in to her jumps. Her lutzes looked borderline flutz to me, but they weren't called. 105.30.
Agnes Zawadzki - She is slow. I don't know how she pulls off these jumps from a standstill. Good jumps, nice spins, etc., but she just isn't memorable yet. She needs more power and speed behind her skating. She needs to switch coaches ASAP if she wants to emerge as a frontrunner. 112.30.
Christina Gao - She is fast. She can pull off some of these jumps because she carries speed throughout her program very well. Her double axel was much better than the SP. Her spins and stretch still need improvement, though, and her final position in her combo spin needs to go. It was unfortunate when she hit the camera, but she recovered nicely. 108.77.
Alissa Czisny - Triple lutz double toe, triple flip, gorgeous movements and interpretation to the music, triple toe combo, flying camel. What a nice opening! Fall out of the loop, but she recovers with another lutz in combo and lands her toe and axel. She needs to place her spiral in the center for a better effect, and should only do the arabesque position. Her spins were in a class of their own, but she really needs to ditch the classic layback position because she doesn't go back flat, causing her to lose a level. If she goes straight to the side, she still gets a level four. 128.74.
Mirai Nagasu - looks nervous. Tight on lutz combo, double axel double toe, triple flip possibly under rotated. Does her layback and her spiral, but she has done them better. Lutz is under rotated, followed by a nice toe in combination, and a spiral where the actual spiral sequence should be. Nice loop, footwork and ending spin, but makes stupid mistakes on her double axel and flying spin, gaining no credit for the spin. In the K&C, Carroll gets hit by a stuffed lion, and he is NOT happy. 113.91.
Rachael Flatt - Does the jumps, choreo is cringe-worthy as usual, as are the spins. Beats Mirai, blah, blah, blah, I am bitter. Hugely over scored on PCS - she is slow. 121.06 WTF. NO. Chan's score was more realistic than that. If anyone else had skated that program the way she did they would have scored about the same as Gao. Spins should count more than they do. I am upset.
Bitterness.
Alexe Gilles - Landed a lutz and a flip, the rest of the program was not so good. Her skating and spins were WAY too slow for someone competing on the GPS, and I don't think she will be given two assignments next year based on this years' results. 76.00
Caroline Zhang - Looking slimmer in her new costume, which is much more flattering for her body type. Nice triple flip combo to start, followed by a couple of falls, a couple of slowish spins, a nice triple loop double axel sequence, and a spiral. She makes another mistake by popping open the second flip, and it looks like it hurt. She may want to consider changing that into a triple toe, seeing as she is not doing triple triple combos now. She lands a nice three jump combo, does some stuff going 5 mph, and ends with a fast layback including a pearl. She started off slightly faster than before, but her components reflect the fact she has no transitions in her programs. 92.47
Joelle Forte - Lands an impressive number of triple jumps, but her program was terribly boring. 102.25.
Yasmin Siraj - Girl needs to eat something. It is gross. She lands some stuff, but her skating looks weird because she is so gangly. 102.56.
Morgan Bell - This was her first senior nationals, and it was clear she was feeling the pressure of making the top 10. Not her best. 69.84.
Ashley Wagner - Looks confident before the program. Starts off strong with a triple flip double toe, followed by a double axel triple toe that was two footed and under rotated. She comes back strong with a huge triple lutz, but she didn't hold the edge like she did in the SP. Combo spin, spiral, fast death drop. She is really attacking the choreo and interpreting the music - she is giving it everything she has, knowing it is probably her last performance of the season. Nice triple loop combo and triple sal, but a little under rotated on the solo triple loop and gets too close to the boards on the flip. OK footwork, solid positions in final spin. I wish she would attack the SP the way she does it in the LP, because she has to dig herself out of a hole every time, and this time, it wasn't enough. 110.73.
Vanessa Lam - Nice triple lutz combo to start, followed by a flip. She does not have the maturity of Ashley or Alissa, but she is landing the jumps. Great layback and combination spins, but she could use more speed going in to her jumps. Her lutzes looked borderline flutz to me, but they weren't called. 105.30.
Agnes Zawadzki - She is slow. I don't know how she pulls off these jumps from a standstill. Good jumps, nice spins, etc., but she just isn't memorable yet. She needs more power and speed behind her skating. She needs to switch coaches ASAP if she wants to emerge as a frontrunner. 112.30.
Christina Gao - She is fast. She can pull off some of these jumps because she carries speed throughout her program very well. Her double axel was much better than the SP. Her spins and stretch still need improvement, though, and her final position in her combo spin needs to go. It was unfortunate when she hit the camera, but she recovered nicely. 108.77.
Alissa Czisny - Triple lutz double toe, triple flip, gorgeous movements and interpretation to the music, triple toe combo, flying camel. What a nice opening! Fall out of the loop, but she recovers with another lutz in combo and lands her toe and axel. She needs to place her spiral in the center for a better effect, and should only do the arabesque position. Her spins were in a class of their own, but she really needs to ditch the classic layback position because she doesn't go back flat, causing her to lose a level. If she goes straight to the side, she still gets a level four. 128.74.
Mirai Nagasu - looks nervous. Tight on lutz combo, double axel double toe, triple flip possibly under rotated. Does her layback and her spiral, but she has done them better. Lutz is under rotated, followed by a nice toe in combination, and a spiral where the actual spiral sequence should be. Nice loop, footwork and ending spin, but makes stupid mistakes on her double axel and flying spin, gaining no credit for the spin. In the K&C, Carroll gets hit by a stuffed lion, and he is NOT happy. 113.91.
Rachael Flatt - Does the jumps, choreo is cringe-worthy as usual, as are the spins. Beats Mirai, blah, blah, blah, I am bitter. Hugely over scored on PCS - she is slow. 121.06 WTF. NO. Chan's score was more realistic than that. If anyone else had skated that program the way she did they would have scored about the same as Gao. Spins should count more than they do. I am upset.
Bitterness.
U.S. Nationals - Ladies LP
I will keep my negative comments to myself on the first warmup group. All I have to say is that I hope the rest of the competition is not ANYTHING like the first group. Also, I would like Tonia to STFU for 5 seconds and stop talking about herself. No-one cares.
Kristiene Gong - Looks fit, like the new under-the-boot tights look. Stood up on 6 triples, but a few were possibly under rotated. It's nice to see someone try and land more than one triple in the senior ladies event. Spins had good positions, but were a little slow. Frank Carroll is happy. 99.18 - I guess her triples were rotated.
Ellie Kawamura - Nice start, but the jumps fell apart after her first combination. Nice layback spin. Her skating looks heavy and labored - especially during her spiral sequence. Many double jumps after the half-way point. 76.75
Kelsey Traunero - Nice performance, including two triple flips, two triple sals, and two double axels. She fell once, and messed up on the second half of some combinations, but a solid performance overall. Nice spins and presentation. She looks happy. 86.02.
Melissa Bulanhagui - Strong start with the sal, lutz, and flip all landed. 3 jump combo looked under rotated on all three jumps, but next two triples look fine. This music is so over used, and there have been many interpretations better than hers. Overall, nice jumps, but spins, spirals, and steps could be improved. Very happy at the end. 99.17.
Danielle Kahle - Rough start with misses on all three opening jump elements. I like her dress - it's very elegant. Ends up landing two jumps cleanly - a triple toe and a double flip. Struggles on her final spin. Not her best. 71.74.
Kristine Musademba - Starts with a fall on an under rotated triple flip, flying sit spin, followed by another fall on a triple flip. Lands the sal and loop, but has to fight for them. Nice connections and speed throughout her spiral sequence, holds onto a triple toe. Combo spin done OK, another toe, no combo, almost falls on spin at the end. 76.59.
Kristiene Gong - Looks fit, like the new under-the-boot tights look. Stood up on 6 triples, but a few were possibly under rotated. It's nice to see someone try and land more than one triple in the senior ladies event. Spins had good positions, but were a little slow. Frank Carroll is happy. 99.18 - I guess her triples were rotated.
Ellie Kawamura - Nice start, but the jumps fell apart after her first combination. Nice layback spin. Her skating looks heavy and labored - especially during her spiral sequence. Many double jumps after the half-way point. 76.75
Kelsey Traunero - Nice performance, including two triple flips, two triple sals, and two double axels. She fell once, and messed up on the second half of some combinations, but a solid performance overall. Nice spins and presentation. She looks happy. 86.02.
Melissa Bulanhagui - Strong start with the sal, lutz, and flip all landed. 3 jump combo looked under rotated on all three jumps, but next two triples look fine. This music is so over used, and there have been many interpretations better than hers. Overall, nice jumps, but spins, spirals, and steps could be improved. Very happy at the end. 99.17.
Danielle Kahle - Rough start with misses on all three opening jump elements. I like her dress - it's very elegant. Ends up landing two jumps cleanly - a triple toe and a double flip. Struggles on her final spin. Not her best. 71.74.
Kristine Musademba - Starts with a fall on an under rotated triple flip, flying sit spin, followed by another fall on a triple flip. Lands the sal and loop, but has to fight for them. Nice connections and speed throughout her spiral sequence, holds onto a triple toe. Combo spin done OK, another toe, no combo, almost falls on spin at the end. 76.59.
U.S. Nationals - Free Dance
The Free Dance was very predictable, with pre-event favorites finishing where we thought they would.
In fourth place, the Hubbells. They disgust me. I am sorry, they just do. They are a brother and sister team and they just make me feel uncomfortable. Her dress was way too low and the bottoms were cut wrong to be skating with your brother. Also she looks bigger than him. I do not like these people, and was not impressed. I am upset the fifth place team fell during their footwork, because they would have beat the Hubbells and landed on the podium.
In third place, Chock/Zuerlein. I enjoyed her interpretation and both of their footwork sequences, but was too distracted by his make-up to make any other comments. His make-up needs to be dialed down ASAP because he just looked batshit crazy out there - like he had just escaped from an institution for the clinically insane. Not a good look.
In second place, one of my favorite teams, the Shibutanis. They are a brother/sister team that works, because they DON'T try to be sexy. Their classic lines and elegance work to their advantage throughout their performance, and their posture is world class. I can't wait to see them develop in the future. They have made so much improvement from this season compared to last, and hopefully they can build a reputation for themselves and become contenders over the next couple of years.
And the winners are...Davis and White. No surprise here, but honestly, I am not a huge fan of their Free Dance. I really enjoy their short dance, but their free dance is still lacking SOMETHING for me, I just don't know what exactly it is. I think maybe there are too many music cuts, which makes the program seem choppy at times. This is a growing year for them, and this program has definitely grown since their debut on the GPS, but I am not sure this is the right program for them. Hopefully it will be enough for them to win worlds this year, as this is really their "golden opportunity", but I am looking forward to a new program from them next year.
In fourth place, the Hubbells. They disgust me. I am sorry, they just do. They are a brother and sister team and they just make me feel uncomfortable. Her dress was way too low and the bottoms were cut wrong to be skating with your brother. Also she looks bigger than him. I do not like these people, and was not impressed. I am upset the fifth place team fell during their footwork, because they would have beat the Hubbells and landed on the podium.
In third place, Chock/Zuerlein. I enjoyed her interpretation and both of their footwork sequences, but was too distracted by his make-up to make any other comments. His make-up needs to be dialed down ASAP because he just looked batshit crazy out there - like he had just escaped from an institution for the clinically insane. Not a good look.
In second place, one of my favorite teams, the Shibutanis. They are a brother/sister team that works, because they DON'T try to be sexy. Their classic lines and elegance work to their advantage throughout their performance, and their posture is world class. I can't wait to see them develop in the future. They have made so much improvement from this season compared to last, and hopefully they can build a reputation for themselves and become contenders over the next couple of years.
And the winners are...Davis and White. No surprise here, but honestly, I am not a huge fan of their Free Dance. I really enjoy their short dance, but their free dance is still lacking SOMETHING for me, I just don't know what exactly it is. I think maybe there are too many music cuts, which makes the program seem choppy at times. This is a growing year for them, and this program has definitely grown since their debut on the GPS, but I am not sure this is the right program for them. Hopefully it will be enough for them to win worlds this year, as this is really their "golden opportunity", but I am looking forward to a new program from them next year.
Europeans
Well, I haven't been following Euros too closely seeing as U.S. Nationals are going on at the same time, but I did get the chance to watch the ladies and mens LPs.
Most of the ladies imploded, but Meier and Kostner were clearly above the rest of the field. It was so heartwarming to see Meier's expression at the end of her program, and then after seeing her scores. I have always appreciated her maturity and elegance on the ice, but she never seems to do it when it counts. I was so happy she could come out with her first performance of the season and nail her LP (with the exception of a single toe at the end), and to do it at home. I really like this new program of hers and I wish she would stay and compete at worlds this season, but with all of her injuries and success at this competition, I can see why she wants to retire on a high note.
The only other highlight was Kostner's LP. She went for the flip for the first time this season, and although she fell out of it, she didn't let this mistake affect the rest of her performance. She went on to nail a couple of double axels, one in combination with a triple toe, and some other jumps later in the program that were OK. She did fall once, but it wasn't that bad. I really appreciate her use of the new spiral requirements instead of contorting herself into some ugly beillman position she really isn't good at.
The Men's event, on the other hand, turned out to be a very interesting competition, with near clean performances skated by the top 4.
Kevin van der Perren was the biggest surprise for me. I by NO means like his skating or his style, but I actually enjoyed this performance. When he is on, he is one of the best jumpers out there, but his spins and presentation are still meh. His opening quad toe and triple axel were both beautiful.
Florent Amodio won overall, but was only 3rd in the LP. His triple axels were good today, but for worlds he needs to make sure he does one of his lutzes in a 3-jumps combo if he wants to contend with Chan and the Japanese. I still think his spins need some work, especially the sit-change-sit at the end, but there are a few months until worlds to get those cleaned up. Overall, it was a pretty good performance and I think he is on the right track for worlds. This may not be his year to emerge on top, but it is a year to build his reputation and establish himself as a contender for Sochi.
Thomas Verner finished second in the LP, but opened up with a HUGE quad toe, landing it for the first time this season. He lost his concentration on the triple axel, but got it back for the loop. Although he doubled a lutz at the end and did a single toe on the back end of a combination, this was a good performance for him - he doesn't want to peak too soon. I think training in Canada and doing full run-throughs is agreeing with him and helping his confidence. In the past, I don't think he could've recovered from the step-out on the triple axel.
Finally, the comeback kid (or man...). Brian Joubert surprised me with a near clean skate, and I liked it. He seems to have improved his spin positions and transitions this season, and this new style is working for him. The quad and two triple axels were great, but the choreography step was kind of pathetic. It was smart of him to put the flip in the second half of the program to lessen the penalty of the edge call, but then again he lost points on unnecessary touchdowns on easier triples (loop, sal). He, like Amodio, needs to clean up and polish his programs a little more before worlds, where the two Frenchmen will face stiff competition from Chan, the Japanese, and even the Americans (if they can get it together). Overall a great performance and confidence booster going in to worlds.
Most of the ladies imploded, but Meier and Kostner were clearly above the rest of the field. It was so heartwarming to see Meier's expression at the end of her program, and then after seeing her scores. I have always appreciated her maturity and elegance on the ice, but she never seems to do it when it counts. I was so happy she could come out with her first performance of the season and nail her LP (with the exception of a single toe at the end), and to do it at home. I really like this new program of hers and I wish she would stay and compete at worlds this season, but with all of her injuries and success at this competition, I can see why she wants to retire on a high note.
The only other highlight was Kostner's LP. She went for the flip for the first time this season, and although she fell out of it, she didn't let this mistake affect the rest of her performance. She went on to nail a couple of double axels, one in combination with a triple toe, and some other jumps later in the program that were OK. She did fall once, but it wasn't that bad. I really appreciate her use of the new spiral requirements instead of contorting herself into some ugly beillman position she really isn't good at.
The Men's event, on the other hand, turned out to be a very interesting competition, with near clean performances skated by the top 4.
Kevin van der Perren was the biggest surprise for me. I by NO means like his skating or his style, but I actually enjoyed this performance. When he is on, he is one of the best jumpers out there, but his spins and presentation are still meh. His opening quad toe and triple axel were both beautiful.
Florent Amodio won overall, but was only 3rd in the LP. His triple axels were good today, but for worlds he needs to make sure he does one of his lutzes in a 3-jumps combo if he wants to contend with Chan and the Japanese. I still think his spins need some work, especially the sit-change-sit at the end, but there are a few months until worlds to get those cleaned up. Overall, it was a pretty good performance and I think he is on the right track for worlds. This may not be his year to emerge on top, but it is a year to build his reputation and establish himself as a contender for Sochi.
Thomas Verner finished second in the LP, but opened up with a HUGE quad toe, landing it for the first time this season. He lost his concentration on the triple axel, but got it back for the loop. Although he doubled a lutz at the end and did a single toe on the back end of a combination, this was a good performance for him - he doesn't want to peak too soon. I think training in Canada and doing full run-throughs is agreeing with him and helping his confidence. In the past, I don't think he could've recovered from the step-out on the triple axel.
Finally, the comeback kid (or man...). Brian Joubert surprised me with a near clean skate, and I liked it. He seems to have improved his spin positions and transitions this season, and this new style is working for him. The quad and two triple axels were great, but the choreography step was kind of pathetic. It was smart of him to put the flip in the second half of the program to lessen the penalty of the edge call, but then again he lost points on unnecessary touchdowns on easier triples (loop, sal). He, like Amodio, needs to clean up and polish his programs a little more before worlds, where the two Frenchmen will face stiff competition from Chan, the Japanese, and even the Americans (if they can get it together). Overall a great performance and confidence booster going in to worlds.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
U.S. Nationals - Ladies SP
Not exactly live, but close enough!
Alissa Czisny - Triple lutz+Double toe DEEP outside edge, triple flip possible edge change, spiral, double axel, once again off a deep outside edge. Now we can relax - beautiful flying camel with attractive catch-foot positions, footwork went well with the music, very fast combo spin, ends with a well centered and fast layback, but I noticed she wasn't completely flat in the original layback position. Overall a great performance, the only scary jump being the double axel. 62.50
Looking at the protocol, she changed edge on the flip. PCS were WAY too low.
Christina Gao - HUGE triple flip-triple toe, nice triple lutz - edge looked pretty good, but didn't see a replay so I'm not sure. Flying sit spin and laybacks OK, but the positions could be stretched more. VERY scary double axel - it looked like she slipped off the edge, OK footwork and combo spin. Good performance, but her axel really scares me. 58.43
Appropriate scoring on the protocol.
Agnes Zawadzki - once again a HUGE triple toe-triple toe followed by a big triple lutz. I then got distracted by her awful dress and hair style. There was too much going on in the front, and not enough on the back AND it included a tail. I am confused. I saw a good layback, OK footwork, flying sit spin, good double axel and good combo spin. The dress needs to go. It is awful. 61.54
Still not over her costume after looking at the protocol.... but her PCS were all over the place (Judge 1).
Caroline Zhang - Oh scary fall on the triple flip - I saw that coming she tapped WAY too far to the inside. Good recovery on the triple loop-double toe. Improved speed on spins and going into the double axel, and the return of the pearl spin! She looks like she's in MUCH better shape, so maybe this change is a good idea. Ok footwork, better speed on combo spin. 48.48
Appropriate judging on the protocol, but I think her PCS were a little low.
Mirai Nagasu - Ok triple lutz-double toe - lost some speed on the takeoff, slight flutz. Okay triple flip but it looked a little sideways in the air - she seems slow today. Good footwork and combo spin, big double axel, nice flying sit spin, and great layback. She did some weird stuff getting into her starting position...still confused. 63.35
Apparently the lutz was fine, but the flip got an edge call...? Interesting. Appropriate and fairly consistent PCS throughout the judges.
Vanessa Lam - Nice ina bauers into her double axel, small but fast rotations on both her triple lutz-double loop and triple flip, good layback and combo spins, expressive footwork, and nice flying sit spin to end the program. The crowd was really into it. 57.61
Not much GOE on her jumps. She needs to work on making them higher in case she's not growing, which is definitely possible, seeing as she is only 15. Good PCS for a relative unknown making her senior debut.
Ashley Wagner - Looks nervous at the boards. Steps out of triple flip, does the combo on the lutz, which actually didn't seem to change edge in the slo-mo. Fast flying sit spin, expressive footwork, OK combo spin, nice transitions into her double axel, but she didn't get the height. Good layback to end. You could tell the flu really affected her performance, and she was not happy. 54.63
No edge calls - I saw right. I guess that is one good thing from this performance. Honestly, I thought her transitions and interpretation marks should have been higher, and her performance/execution marks should have been lower. Weird PCS from judges.
Rachael Flatt - Easy triple flip-double toe, but you could tell she wanted a triple toe, swinging edge into the lutz, which seemed slightly under-rotated. Flying camel and layback spins not great, good double axel. Nice ina bauer! Why can't she stretch her back like that in her spins? It makes no sense. Frantic, flailing footwork - shades of Plushenko. Final combo spin OK. Less cringe-worthy than her old program, if you close your eyes during the footwork. 62.32
Looking at her protocol, I am very upset she got +3s for her footwork. Mao doesn't even get that at her own nationals, and there is NO comparison as to who has the better footwork. Also, PCS were higher than Alissa's, which is just WRONG. I am very upset. On the bright side, they judged her layback correctly and awarded her with a level 1.
Alissa Czisny - Triple lutz+Double toe DEEP outside edge, triple flip possible edge change, spiral, double axel, once again off a deep outside edge. Now we can relax - beautiful flying camel with attractive catch-foot positions, footwork went well with the music, very fast combo spin, ends with a well centered and fast layback, but I noticed she wasn't completely flat in the original layback position. Overall a great performance, the only scary jump being the double axel. 62.50
Looking at the protocol, she changed edge on the flip. PCS were WAY too low.
Christina Gao - HUGE triple flip-triple toe, nice triple lutz - edge looked pretty good, but didn't see a replay so I'm not sure. Flying sit spin and laybacks OK, but the positions could be stretched more. VERY scary double axel - it looked like she slipped off the edge, OK footwork and combo spin. Good performance, but her axel really scares me. 58.43
Appropriate scoring on the protocol.
Agnes Zawadzki - once again a HUGE triple toe-triple toe followed by a big triple lutz. I then got distracted by her awful dress and hair style. There was too much going on in the front, and not enough on the back AND it included a tail. I am confused. I saw a good layback, OK footwork, flying sit spin, good double axel and good combo spin. The dress needs to go. It is awful. 61.54
Still not over her costume after looking at the protocol.... but her PCS were all over the place (Judge 1).
Caroline Zhang - Oh scary fall on the triple flip - I saw that coming she tapped WAY too far to the inside. Good recovery on the triple loop-double toe. Improved speed on spins and going into the double axel, and the return of the pearl spin! She looks like she's in MUCH better shape, so maybe this change is a good idea. Ok footwork, better speed on combo spin. 48.48
Appropriate judging on the protocol, but I think her PCS were a little low.
Mirai Nagasu - Ok triple lutz-double toe - lost some speed on the takeoff, slight flutz. Okay triple flip but it looked a little sideways in the air - she seems slow today. Good footwork and combo spin, big double axel, nice flying sit spin, and great layback. She did some weird stuff getting into her starting position...still confused. 63.35
Apparently the lutz was fine, but the flip got an edge call...? Interesting. Appropriate and fairly consistent PCS throughout the judges.
Vanessa Lam - Nice ina bauers into her double axel, small but fast rotations on both her triple lutz-double loop and triple flip, good layback and combo spins, expressive footwork, and nice flying sit spin to end the program. The crowd was really into it. 57.61
Not much GOE on her jumps. She needs to work on making them higher in case she's not growing, which is definitely possible, seeing as she is only 15. Good PCS for a relative unknown making her senior debut.
Ashley Wagner - Looks nervous at the boards. Steps out of triple flip, does the combo on the lutz, which actually didn't seem to change edge in the slo-mo. Fast flying sit spin, expressive footwork, OK combo spin, nice transitions into her double axel, but she didn't get the height. Good layback to end. You could tell the flu really affected her performance, and she was not happy. 54.63
No edge calls - I saw right. I guess that is one good thing from this performance. Honestly, I thought her transitions and interpretation marks should have been higher, and her performance/execution marks should have been lower. Weird PCS from judges.
Rachael Flatt - Easy triple flip-double toe, but you could tell she wanted a triple toe, swinging edge into the lutz, which seemed slightly under-rotated. Flying camel and layback spins not great, good double axel. Nice ina bauer! Why can't she stretch her back like that in her spins? It makes no sense. Frantic, flailing footwork - shades of Plushenko. Final combo spin OK. Less cringe-worthy than her old program, if you close your eyes during the footwork. 62.32
Looking at her protocol, I am very upset she got +3s for her footwork. Mao doesn't even get that at her own nationals, and there is NO comparison as to who has the better footwork. Also, PCS were higher than Alissa's, which is just WRONG. I am very upset. On the bright side, they judged her layback correctly and awarded her with a level 1.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Taking Back What I've Said
I would like to take back what I said about PChan's freeskate. I am not a huge Chan lover, but I do appreciate his skating skills and high quality elements when he performs them well. This performance at Chanadian Nationals was phenomenal! Yes, I still think his expression and interpretation need work, but everything else was spot on. I do, however, agree with my previous comments in that this performance should have earned a score around 185, not 197.
Either way, enjoy this great performance - it is definitely the best LP we have seen from any Male skater this season.
Either way, enjoy this great performance - it is definitely the best LP we have seen from any Male skater this season.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Something I Have Noticed...
Something that I have noticed becoming increasingly awful is the coverage of skating news on IceNetwork.com. I realize that all websites and reporters (and me) have their biases, but IceNetwork is becoming ridiculous. If you look at their website, almost all of their headlines are articles about skaters from Colorado Springs. Yes, that's great every once in a while, but would it hurt them to write an article about someone OTHER than Tom Zakrajsek's students? It's not just because I personally find them all boring, but what about writing about up-and-coming skaters like Vanessa Lam or Yasmin Siraj? Don't they want to expose us to knew skaters so we can know about them in the future when the current skaters retire?
But wait! There is hope - IceNetwork sometimes brings us news from one other rink! I do admit, the stories from Canton, Michigan are much more interesting, but even they get stale after a while. What about doing a report on Sectionals? Or writing about up-and-coming Novice and Junior competitors? I just don't understand why skaters from the East, West, Texas, etc. never get written about.
OK rant over.
OH FYI: I will be doing reports on Nationals, but only on the skaters I feel like watching in the events I want to see. HOPEFULLY that will mean live commentary on some of the Senior events, but we will have to see...
But wait! There is hope - IceNetwork sometimes brings us news from one other rink! I do admit, the stories from Canton, Michigan are much more interesting, but even they get stale after a while. What about doing a report on Sectionals? Or writing about up-and-coming Novice and Junior competitors? I just don't understand why skaters from the East, West, Texas, etc. never get written about.
OK rant over.
OH FYI: I will be doing reports on Nationals, but only on the skaters I feel like watching in the events I want to see. HOPEFULLY that will mean live commentary on some of the Senior events, but we will have to see...
Friday, January 21, 2011
US Nationals
With US Nationals coming up, I wanted to share my thoughts on not only what I think will happen, but also what I want to happen.
First, the Men.
I would like the podium to consist of Jeremy Abbott, Adam Rippon, and Armin Mahbanoozadeh, but Brandon Mroz has had a strong season so I think it will be tough for Armin to get on the podium. I really like Jeremy's LP this season, and hope he can perform it almost to its potential (save the best for worlds) at Nationals. He is the favorite, but if he messes up, others can and will take advantage. Adam had a VERY strong season opener at the Japan Open, but his triple axel proved troublesome during the Grand Prix series. Hopefully everything is under control and he will be able to nail his axels in competition to get his confidence back on them. I really enjoy both of Armin's programs this season, not just for the jumps, spins, choreo, etc., but also because you can tell he really enjoys being out there. His programs are interesting and unique, and he is one of a very small group of men who can actually do a good camel position!
Now, the Ladies. There are only two spots for worlds this year, and the contenders all better bring their A-game, because no one can really afford to make a mistake.
I would like to see Mirai Nagasu, Ashley Wagner, and Alissa Czisny on the podium, but I honestly don't know who the best team will be to get the three spots back at worlds. It would seem like Mirai and Alissa have the most potential to get the spots back, but I fear that Alissa has already peaked and will feel the pressure of living up to expectations after winning the GPF. Her skating is beautiful and I really love both of her programs this year, but I just have a feeling that she has already skated her best programs of the season. Mirai has the potential to place highly at worlds with the technical content she is attempting, but that is only if she rotates her jumps. Even with the new < rules, you still lose base value and GOE marks, essentially making under rotated triples equal to the value of well executed doubles (instead of less like last year). She also needs to change her spiral in the LP to an arabesque to maximize potential GOE.
Many people have been counting Ashley out this year, but I actually think that may be a good thing for her. The two times Ashley has been considered a "frontrunner" at nationals, she has messed up the short program and had to come back fighting in the long. However, back in 2008 when the attention was on Caroline and Kimmie, she delivered two of the best performances of the night, placing second in both segments of the competition. On the other hand, everyone is counting on Rachael Flatt to make the podium because of her consistency, but this season has shown us that she is not as consistent as she used to be. With the foot injury and change in technique, I don't know if Rachael is back into top form, and wouldn't be surprised if she finished off the podium at Nationals. Plus, the performances she gave at the GPF are in the back of her mind, and doubts can creep back in under pressure. Overall, the ladies field is fairly wide open, but I think that Mirai will take back her National title.
First, the Men.
I would like the podium to consist of Jeremy Abbott, Adam Rippon, and Armin Mahbanoozadeh, but Brandon Mroz has had a strong season so I think it will be tough for Armin to get on the podium. I really like Jeremy's LP this season, and hope he can perform it almost to its potential (save the best for worlds) at Nationals. He is the favorite, but if he messes up, others can and will take advantage. Adam had a VERY strong season opener at the Japan Open, but his triple axel proved troublesome during the Grand Prix series. Hopefully everything is under control and he will be able to nail his axels in competition to get his confidence back on them. I really enjoy both of Armin's programs this season, not just for the jumps, spins, choreo, etc., but also because you can tell he really enjoys being out there. His programs are interesting and unique, and he is one of a very small group of men who can actually do a good camel position!
Now, the Ladies. There are only two spots for worlds this year, and the contenders all better bring their A-game, because no one can really afford to make a mistake.
I would like to see Mirai Nagasu, Ashley Wagner, and Alissa Czisny on the podium, but I honestly don't know who the best team will be to get the three spots back at worlds. It would seem like Mirai and Alissa have the most potential to get the spots back, but I fear that Alissa has already peaked and will feel the pressure of living up to expectations after winning the GPF. Her skating is beautiful and I really love both of her programs this year, but I just have a feeling that she has already skated her best programs of the season. Mirai has the potential to place highly at worlds with the technical content she is attempting, but that is only if she rotates her jumps. Even with the new < rules, you still lose base value and GOE marks, essentially making under rotated triples equal to the value of well executed doubles (instead of less like last year). She also needs to change her spiral in the LP to an arabesque to maximize potential GOE.
Many people have been counting Ashley out this year, but I actually think that may be a good thing for her. The two times Ashley has been considered a "frontrunner" at nationals, she has messed up the short program and had to come back fighting in the long. However, back in 2008 when the attention was on Caroline and Kimmie, she delivered two of the best performances of the night, placing second in both segments of the competition. On the other hand, everyone is counting on Rachael Flatt to make the podium because of her consistency, but this season has shown us that she is not as consistent as she used to be. With the foot injury and change in technique, I don't know if Rachael is back into top form, and wouldn't be surprised if she finished off the podium at Nationals. Plus, the performances she gave at the GPF are in the back of her mind, and doubts can creep back in under pressure. Overall, the ladies field is fairly wide open, but I think that Mirai will take back her National title.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Monday, January 17, 2011
Mao Asada: Exhibition Champion
Over the past few years, I have actually preferred many of Mao's exhibition programs to one or both of her competitive programs. Ever since 2007/2008, her exhibitions have really showed off her performance qualities and expressions that she sometimes does not show in competition.
The first exhibition is from the 2007/2008 season, and is one of my all-time favorite Mao programs. Even though it is from 3 years ago, the program really shows her maturity and connection with the music. Not only does she have great expression, but she does 6 jumps - 3 of them triples (loop, flip, lutz), and 3 double axels, while many skaters opt to do only 1-2 easier jumps total.
Also, the encore of her step sequence is beautiful :)
Next is her Tango program from the 2008/2009 season. This program shows off a more "flirty" side of Mao, and she smiles during the performance! Although I didn't really have a problem with either of her programs that season, I think this Tango not only works better, but is less repetitive than the one she uses for her short program this season. I really wish that Mao had used this as her short program this season to show she CAN do something other than "pwetty pwincess".
I also really like the side layback position she does at about 1:37, and I wish she would use it in her program - it is much more aesthetically pleasing than what she does now.
Mao's Caprice program from last season was much better than either of her competitive programs that year, but it is still my least favorite of the ones included in this post. It is cute and flirty, but a little too similar to the Tango she did the year before, and I guess I was looking for something that better showed her natural elegance and grace. Maybe if she had used this as her short program, I would have appreciated it more, but as I said, it was still A LOT better than re-using Masquerade (which in my opinion didn't work as a SP), or Bells of Moscow (maybe a different version may have worked...or not?). Also, I didn't like how she made the program easier by doing two double axels - one of my favorite things about Mao is that she is always challenging herself - but she changed it to a triple loop after winning worlds, so I will post that version.
Finally, her Chopin Ex from this season. I really really REALLY love this program! It is probably my favorite exhibition from Mao. I believe it shows off her new maturity, natural grace and elegance, and she really looks like a ballerina out there! She still goes for the flip and loop, as well as two double axels even though she has been struggling with her jumps this season, but for the first time in two seasons, the jumps aren't the highlights - it's about the program as a whole. Both Masquerade and the Bells of Moscow were centered around her jumps and really nothing else, and that took away a lot of Mao's natural performance qualities that helped her rise to the top in the first place. I really like how this season, not only in her EX, but also in her LP, the main focus is not on the jumps anymore - the spins, spirals, steps, connections, etc. are also important.
Anyway, I really like her white dress, but lately she has been wearing a black dress that I do not like. The while dress is like a breath of fresh air, and is SLEEVELESS!! Also, Mao is one of the few skaters that can actually wear white and not look too washed out. The black dress is juniorish (there is a junior skater who has almost the same dress in a salmon color), and it blends in with the background. I hope Mao switched back to the simple white dress so we can (1) see her better, (2) focus on her skating, and (3) actually see her arms! GASP! Arms!!
The first exhibition is from the 2007/2008 season, and is one of my all-time favorite Mao programs. Even though it is from 3 years ago, the program really shows her maturity and connection with the music. Not only does she have great expression, but she does 6 jumps - 3 of them triples (loop, flip, lutz), and 3 double axels, while many skaters opt to do only 1-2 easier jumps total.
Also, the encore of her step sequence is beautiful :)
Next is her Tango program from the 2008/2009 season. This program shows off a more "flirty" side of Mao, and she smiles during the performance! Although I didn't really have a problem with either of her programs that season, I think this Tango not only works better, but is less repetitive than the one she uses for her short program this season. I really wish that Mao had used this as her short program this season to show she CAN do something other than "pwetty pwincess".
I also really like the side layback position she does at about 1:37, and I wish she would use it in her program - it is much more aesthetically pleasing than what she does now.
Mao's Caprice program from last season was much better than either of her competitive programs that year, but it is still my least favorite of the ones included in this post. It is cute and flirty, but a little too similar to the Tango she did the year before, and I guess I was looking for something that better showed her natural elegance and grace. Maybe if she had used this as her short program, I would have appreciated it more, but as I said, it was still A LOT better than re-using Masquerade (which in my opinion didn't work as a SP), or Bells of Moscow (maybe a different version may have worked...or not?). Also, I didn't like how she made the program easier by doing two double axels - one of my favorite things about Mao is that she is always challenging herself - but she changed it to a triple loop after winning worlds, so I will post that version.
Finally, her Chopin Ex from this season. I really really REALLY love this program! It is probably my favorite exhibition from Mao. I believe it shows off her new maturity, natural grace and elegance, and she really looks like a ballerina out there! She still goes for the flip and loop, as well as two double axels even though she has been struggling with her jumps this season, but for the first time in two seasons, the jumps aren't the highlights - it's about the program as a whole. Both Masquerade and the Bells of Moscow were centered around her jumps and really nothing else, and that took away a lot of Mao's natural performance qualities that helped her rise to the top in the first place. I really like how this season, not only in her EX, but also in her LP, the main focus is not on the jumps anymore - the spins, spirals, steps, connections, etc. are also important.
Anyway, I really like her white dress, but lately she has been wearing a black dress that I do not like. The while dress is like a breath of fresh air, and is SLEEVELESS!! Also, Mao is one of the few skaters that can actually wear white and not look too washed out. The black dress is juniorish (there is a junior skater who has almost the same dress in a salmon color), and it blends in with the background. I hope Mao switched back to the simple white dress so we can (1) see her better, (2) focus on her skating, and (3) actually see her arms! GASP! Arms!!
Friday, January 14, 2011
In Honor Of...
In honor of Rachael Flatt's new SP to East of Eden, I thought it was about time I revisited the performance that earned seven 6.0s:
Flatt is not my favorite skater by any means (at all, ever), but I really wish she would have picked something else. It is inevitable that she will be compared to Kwan, and I don't think that will be a good thing. However, her old SP made me feel VERY uncomfortable when watching it so I'm not really sure what she could do.
Flatt is not my favorite skater by any means (at all, ever), but I really wish she would have picked something else. It is inevitable that she will be compared to Kwan, and I don't think that will be a good thing. However, her old SP made me feel VERY uncomfortable when watching it so I'm not really sure what she could do.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Mao Asada
As a Mao fan, I want the best for her, and this is the layout I hope she chooses for the rest of the season:
3A
3F-2Lo -OR- 3F-3Lo -OR- 3F-3T
3Lz
CCoSp
3T-2T-2Lo
3F-2Lo
ChSp
3S
FSSp
SlSt
3Lo
FCoSp
This way she can attempt at least 7 triples without going for a triple-triple combination, and eight if she does. She can also include a full set of triples in her program, something we haven't seen from her since the GPF in 2008. I hear her talking about wanting to do a second 3A, but I don't think this is a good idea. The second 3A is in the second half of the program, meaning she is tired. Also, if she has to think about the second 3A, she will most likely mess up (like she did during the GP series). I would much rather see her going for the layout listed above than the one I fear she will attempt. I just think it is too soon and she is just re-gaining consistency with her new technique to go for another 3A.
3A
3F-2Lo -OR- 3F-3Lo -OR- 3F-3T
3Lz
CCoSp
3T-2T-2Lo
3F-2Lo
ChSp
3S
FSSp
SlSt
3Lo
FCoSp
This way she can attempt at least 7 triples without going for a triple-triple combination, and eight if she does. She can also include a full set of triples in her program, something we haven't seen from her since the GPF in 2008. I hear her talking about wanting to do a second 3A, but I don't think this is a good idea. The second 3A is in the second half of the program, meaning she is tired. Also, if she has to think about the second 3A, she will most likely mess up (like she did during the GP series). I would much rather see her going for the layout listed above than the one I fear she will attempt. I just think it is too soon and she is just re-gaining consistency with her new technique to go for another 3A.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Pick of the Day - January 12
OK so I guess I am doing a pick of the day every two days now? Maybe I should call it pick of every other day? NO that sounds bad - I'll keep it, but try to post every day instead.
Anyway, I have chosen one of my favorites: Mao Asada. This is her SP from 2008 Worlds. I will always be confused about the judging/placements of this segment of the competition, but what's done is done, and she won the gold anyway! I love the ease of all of her elements, especially the triple flip-triple loop, and the speed going and coming out of her elements. I really hope she can bring back her triple-triple combination(s) this season, because they are, in my opinion, more impressive than her 3A. I wish she would go for one 3A and one 3-3, and she could still include all of the triples like she wanted too. JMO.
Enjoy!
Doesn't everyone love Dick and Peggy? I want them back!
Anyway, I have chosen one of my favorites: Mao Asada. This is her SP from 2008 Worlds. I will always be confused about the judging/placements of this segment of the competition, but what's done is done, and she won the gold anyway! I love the ease of all of her elements, especially the triple flip-triple loop, and the speed going and coming out of her elements. I really hope she can bring back her triple-triple combination(s) this season, because they are, in my opinion, more impressive than her 3A. I wish she would go for one 3A and one 3-3, and she could still include all of the triples like she wanted too. JMO.
Enjoy!
Doesn't everyone love Dick and Peggy? I want them back!
Monday, January 10, 2011
Pick of the Day - January 10
My first ice dance pick!
I really like Meryl and Charlie's SD this year, especially as performed at the GPF (I also love her dress). I hope they have enough time to perfect their free dance, because I really want them to win worlds this season.
I really like Meryl and Charlie's SD this year, especially as performed at the GPF (I also love her dress). I hope they have enough time to perfect their free dance, because I really want them to win worlds this season.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Pick of the Day - January 8
So I have picks again for today - the Russian babies. But these are not their performances from this year's Russian Nationals. These are from the 08/09 season. I actually liked their programs A LOT better from the 08/09 season. Adelina's program is more balanced - not all of the jumps are at the beginning. I actually think her program from this season could be great if the elements were re-aranged. Liza's music choice here suits her style better and isn't as repetitive as her current program.
Adelina:
Elizaveta:
Friday, January 7, 2011
Pick of the Day - January 7
Sorry for not posting my pick of the day yesterday! (As if anyone is reading this anyway) So I will make up for it today by posting not one, but TWO picks of the day!!!
My favorite, Mao Asada:
If anyone actually watches this, they should make sure they watch the entire video, because my favorite part is her encore of her LP. She is on time and not rushing through her footwork, unlike her competition performances in which she always seems to be a little late. The footwork goes perfectly with the music, and I hope she will be on time at her next competition!!
Mirai Nagasu:
I hope she skates like this at Nationals.
My favorite, Mao Asada:
If anyone actually watches this, they should make sure they watch the entire video, because my favorite part is her encore of her LP. She is on time and not rushing through her footwork, unlike her competition performances in which she always seems to be a little late. The footwork goes perfectly with the music, and I hope she will be on time at her next competition!!
Mirai Nagasu:
I hope she skates like this at Nationals.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Pick of the Day - January 5
Today I am watching Alissa Czisny's LP this year. I can't decide which performance I like better - Skate Canada or the GPF. Even though she fell at Skate Canada, for some reason the program had a greater emotional impact on me. But she did fall, so I decided to post her performance from the GPF. Nobody matches her when it comes to spins, but I worry about whether she will be able to produce another performance like this at Nationals in a couple of weeks.
I also appreciate the catchfoot she does on her flying camel. The Russian girls should take note and re-grab after their donut spins as the classic position is more aesthetically pleasing. :)
I also appreciate the catchfoot she does on her flying camel. The Russian girls should take note and re-grab after their donut spins as the classic position is more aesthetically pleasing. :)
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Pick of the Day - January 4
With US Nationals right around the corner, my pick for today is Jeremy Abbott's beautiful LP from 2010 Nationals. Everything in this program is perfection, and I hope he is almost as good as this at Nationals, but saves his best for worlds in March.
Enjoy.
Enjoy.
Moments of Total Win
In honor of my first 100 blog views, I have decided to post a couple moments of total win.
They pretty much speak for themselves :)
Thanks for reading my blog everyone! Stay tuned for more!!
They pretty much speak for themselves :)
Thanks for reading my blog everyone! Stay tuned for more!!
Monday, January 3, 2011
Pick of the Day
So I've decided that I am going to post my pick of the day for a video that I happen to be watching that day! Today, my pick is Daisuke Takahashi's SP from the Olympics. His movements are crisp and sharp and have a purpose. In my opinion, he interprets the music perfectly, and the footwork sequences, especially the circular steps, are great. Enjoy!
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Things I Can't Stop Watching
Although my Christmas break is coming to an end and I should be doing work, I have been re-watching some of my favorite programs on youtube.
First off, the lovely Sasha Cohen. Her Swan Lake program is a gem, and the 03/04 season seemed to be the one where she made the least mistakes. This is her first performance of that season, marred by only one mistake - a two footed triple flip. So you can enjoy without worrying about a trademark Sasha splat :)
Next, the young super star, Kim Yu-na. This is her performance at the 2006 Korean Nationals and is on a fan cam. I really like it because she demonstrates all of the triples (except for the axel), even though she did too many combos... Also, the program is very elegant and I hope she moves in this direction again because her "soft" programs (this one and Lark) have been my favorites.
Of course, there is Mao. I have so many videos I would post, but instead I will choose my favorite. I cannot stop watching her LP from Japanese Nationals this year, but I have already done a post on that so... I chose her Claire de Lune program from the 08/09 GPF. This was the competition where Mao finally demonstrated she could do all the triples (even though the loop was downgraded in the SP - I still count it), I just wish she would've gone for all of them together in the LP but maybe this year...
The footwork here is beautiful, as is the layback spin, but I am not really a fan of the back camel combo and glad she has changed that this season.
First off, the lovely Sasha Cohen. Her Swan Lake program is a gem, and the 03/04 season seemed to be the one where she made the least mistakes. This is her first performance of that season, marred by only one mistake - a two footed triple flip. So you can enjoy without worrying about a trademark Sasha splat :)
Next, the young super star, Kim Yu-na. This is her performance at the 2006 Korean Nationals and is on a fan cam. I really like it because she demonstrates all of the triples (except for the axel), even though she did too many combos... Also, the program is very elegant and I hope she moves in this direction again because her "soft" programs (this one and Lark) have been my favorites.
Of course, there is Mao. I have so many videos I would post, but instead I will choose my favorite. I cannot stop watching her LP from Japanese Nationals this year, but I have already done a post on that so... I chose her Claire de Lune program from the 08/09 GPF. This was the competition where Mao finally demonstrated she could do all the triples (even though the loop was downgraded in the SP - I still count it), I just wish she would've gone for all of them together in the LP but maybe this year...
The footwork here is beautiful, as is the layback spin, but I am not really a fan of the back camel combo and glad she has changed that this season.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Japanese Nationals Review Part 2
Now the ladies. Before I continue with this post, I would like it to be known that I am a huge Mao Asada fan, but will try to be fair to all other ladies. I am also a fan of her other competitors (Miki, Kanako, Yu-na even though she wasn't there), but just not to the same extent.
Miki Ando, SP:
I love the new dress, and I am glad she was able to skate a clean short program, but I hope the flip isn't gone forever. I am very creeped out about the Morozov kiss, especially in the wedding dress... The high PCS were well deserved, with much improved interpretation and choreo from the GP series.
Miki Ando, LP:
I am also a fan of her LP dress, and once again creeped out by the Morozov moment in the kiss and cry but.... Anyway back to the skating. Honestly, I was bored. Yes the jumps were landed, the spins and spirals were held, the footwork was completed, but I just wasn't interested. The program was constructed to maximize points, but Morozov forgot to cover up that fact. He should take a hint from, dare I say it, Lori Nichol (cringe). At least she attempts to cover up the fact that there are going to be three jumping passes in a row right after the halfway point. Finally I do not agree with the PCS. I know I am biased towards Mao, but COME ON that did not deserve higher PCS then Mao!! (end rant)
Mao Asada, SP:
Not a fan of the dress, but the performance told us one thing: Mao is back. I would have given the 3A a <, but not the loop, but whatever... at least she landed the flip.
Mao Asada, LP:
This was magical. I really do love this program, and I am glad she was finally able to skate it without too many visible errors. I like the smile she has been sporting this season, even through all of her struggles, and I also appreciate a dress without ruffles on the chest area. I wish she would do a nice big triple toe where the second triple axel should be to demonstrate all 6 triples. This way she could do a seven triple LP without the extra risk of under-rotation calls on triple-triple combinations. The program is very elegant and shows us a softer mature Mao that has been missing since Claire de Lune in 08/09. I just hope she keeps on improving and will finally be on time for her footwork so we can get the full effect. If she continues to improve like this, another World Title is likely. Keep going Mao! I believe in you!!
Kanako Murakami, LP:
This was her best LP of the season, but I don't like how her costume looks like she took half of Mao's and half of Miki's and sewed them together. I like her youthful exuberance in the SP, but she really does step up to the plate and shows a more mature Kanako in the LP. Hopefully she will work on her technique during the off season - her flips and lutzes are scary!
Finally, I wanted to post the LP of up-and-coming Risa Shoji:
I really enjoy her LP this season, and wish she could skate it clean because it would be a true beauty. She has a polished look on the ice, and a solid triple-triple (Sal-Toe in the SP), as well as good spins and expressive footwork. However, she does need to start ending her program on time - she always seems to be a little late at the end!
Miki Ando, SP:
I love the new dress, and I am glad she was able to skate a clean short program, but I hope the flip isn't gone forever. I am very creeped out about the Morozov kiss, especially in the wedding dress... The high PCS were well deserved, with much improved interpretation and choreo from the GP series.
Miki Ando, LP:
I am also a fan of her LP dress, and once again creeped out by the Morozov moment in the kiss and cry but.... Anyway back to the skating. Honestly, I was bored. Yes the jumps were landed, the spins and spirals were held, the footwork was completed, but I just wasn't interested. The program was constructed to maximize points, but Morozov forgot to cover up that fact. He should take a hint from, dare I say it, Lori Nichol (cringe). At least she attempts to cover up the fact that there are going to be three jumping passes in a row right after the halfway point. Finally I do not agree with the PCS. I know I am biased towards Mao, but COME ON that did not deserve higher PCS then Mao!! (end rant)
Mao Asada, SP:
Not a fan of the dress, but the performance told us one thing: Mao is back. I would have given the 3A a <, but not the loop, but whatever... at least she landed the flip.
Mao Asada, LP:
This was magical. I really do love this program, and I am glad she was finally able to skate it without too many visible errors. I like the smile she has been sporting this season, even through all of her struggles, and I also appreciate a dress without ruffles on the chest area. I wish she would do a nice big triple toe where the second triple axel should be to demonstrate all 6 triples. This way she could do a seven triple LP without the extra risk of under-rotation calls on triple-triple combinations. The program is very elegant and shows us a softer mature Mao that has been missing since Claire de Lune in 08/09. I just hope she keeps on improving and will finally be on time for her footwork so we can get the full effect. If she continues to improve like this, another World Title is likely. Keep going Mao! I believe in you!!
Kanako Murakami, LP:
This was her best LP of the season, but I don't like how her costume looks like she took half of Mao's and half of Miki's and sewed them together. I like her youthful exuberance in the SP, but she really does step up to the plate and shows a more mature Kanako in the LP. Hopefully she will work on her technique during the off season - her flips and lutzes are scary!
Finally, I wanted to post the LP of up-and-coming Risa Shoji:
I really enjoy her LP this season, and wish she could skate it clean because it would be a true beauty. She has a polished look on the ice, and a solid triple-triple (Sal-Toe in the SP), as well as good spins and expressive footwork. However, she does need to start ending her program on time - she always seems to be a little late at the end!
Japanese Nationals Review
This is a little late, I know, but I wanted to get my thoughts out there.
First the men:
Takahiko Kozuka, SP:
Takahiko Kozuka, LP:
Kozuka is one of my favorite skaters, so I'm a little biased, but I am so glad he won! However, I wish he would've skated the way he did at TEB about a month earlier and won in a more convincing fashion. He is finally starting to receive the PCS he deserves for his strong skating skills and intricate footwork throughout his program. I wish he would change the first combo spin he does in the LP to something that maintains better speed throughout, such as a sit-change-sit. Overall, I am satisfied with his performances and hope he saves his best for worlds in March.
Nobunari Oda, LP:
I don't really have too much to say about Oda's performances here, except that he can do a lot better. I was a little disappointed with him for not skating up to his potential, but like Kozuka, I hope it's because he is saving his best for worlds. However, I did like when the cameras showed his son who was looking very cute in a brown one-sie :).
Daisuke Takahashi, LP:
I really enjoy watching Takahashi perform, but frankly I do not like the fact that his programs are so similar in style this year. One latin/tango themed program is enough, especially when virtually half of every warm-up group has one!! I do really like this program, and I like it much more than his SP, but I cannot fully appreciate it with all of the tango overload. My advice to him: work on the spins, make sure he gets the levels/goe. He leaves so many points on the table by holding positions for 7 instead of 8 and other sloppy mistakes like that. Overall, I am glad he is going for the quad, but would rather see a clean quad toe than a sloppy under-rotated quad flip.
First the men:
Takahiko Kozuka, SP:
Takahiko Kozuka, LP:
Kozuka is one of my favorite skaters, so I'm a little biased, but I am so glad he won! However, I wish he would've skated the way he did at TEB about a month earlier and won in a more convincing fashion. He is finally starting to receive the PCS he deserves for his strong skating skills and intricate footwork throughout his program. I wish he would change the first combo spin he does in the LP to something that maintains better speed throughout, such as a sit-change-sit. Overall, I am satisfied with his performances and hope he saves his best for worlds in March.
Nobunari Oda, LP:
I don't really have too much to say about Oda's performances here, except that he can do a lot better. I was a little disappointed with him for not skating up to his potential, but like Kozuka, I hope it's because he is saving his best for worlds. However, I did like when the cameras showed his son who was looking very cute in a brown one-sie :).
Daisuke Takahashi, LP:
I really enjoy watching Takahashi perform, but frankly I do not like the fact that his programs are so similar in style this year. One latin/tango themed program is enough, especially when virtually half of every warm-up group has one!! I do really like this program, and I like it much more than his SP, but I cannot fully appreciate it with all of the tango overload. My advice to him: work on the spins, make sure he gets the levels/goe. He leaves so many points on the table by holding positions for 7 instead of 8 and other sloppy mistakes like that. Overall, I am glad he is going for the quad, but would rather see a clean quad toe than a sloppy under-rotated quad flip.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)