Timbre Beck-Murphy's Blog
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Skater, Country, Score, Short, Long
Men
1. Brian Joubert, France, 233.46, 1, 1
2. Daisuke Takahashi, Japan, 224.83, 2, 3
3. Nobunari Oda, Japan, 216.32, 4, 2
4. Alban Preaubert, France, 201.32, 3, 4
5. Johnny Weir, USA, withdrawn, 5, 0
6. Evan Lysacek, USA, withdrawn, 0, 0
Ladies
1. Ya-Na Kim, [South] Korea, 184.2, 3, 1
2. Mao Asada, Japan, 172.52, 1, 4
3. Sarah Meier, Switzerland, 170.28, 4, 2
4. Fumie Suguri, Japan, 158.78, 5, 3
5. Miki Ando, Japan, 157.32, 2, 6
6. Julia Sebastyen, Hungary, 142.69, 6, 5
Pairs
1. Xue Shen and Hongbo Zhao, China, 203.19, 1, 1
2. Aliona Savchenko and Robin Szolkowy, Germany, 180.67, 4, 2
3. Dan Zhang and Hao Zhang, China, 175.93, 2, 4
4. Rena Inoue and John Baldwin, USA, 166.83, 6, 3
5. Valerie Marcoux and Craig Buntin, Canada, 165.83, 6 3
6. Maria Petrova and Alexei Tikhonov, Russia, 154.59, 5, 6
Ice Dancers, Country, OD, FD
1. Albena Denkova and Maxim Staviski, Bulgaria, 161.24, 2, 1
2. Marie-France Dubreuil and Patrice Lauzon, Canada, 156.34, 1, 3
3. Oksana Domnina and Maxim Shabalin, Russia, 156.14, 3, 2
4. Isabelle Delobel and Olivier Schoenfelder, France, 149.00, 4, 4
5. Jana Khokhlova and Sergei Novitski, Russia, 141.34, 5, 5
6. Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov, USA, 135.94, 6, 6
For full event coverage, go to www.isu.org.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
St. Petersburg, Russia hosts the final event, after six qualifying events (Skate America, Skate Canada, Cup of China, Trophee Eric Bombpard, Cup of Russia, and NHK Trophy. In order for skaters to advance to this weekend’s finals, they had to place in the top six at their qualifying competition.
At the final, skaters compete for top honors, world standings points, and $272,000 in prize money. First place finishers take home $25,000. Second place earns athletes $18,000. Third place is $12,000, and fourth place takes $6,000. Fifth place is worth $4,000, while a sixth place finisher makes $3,000. Pairs and ice dance couples split the loot. Those taking the top spots on the World Standings chart earn an additional bonus check. First place in the world at the conclusion of this season is worth an additional $45,000 for singles, or $67,500 for couples. Second place skaters go home with $27,000 (for ladies or men) or $40,500 for pairs or ice dancers. Third place is worth $18,000 to the singles skaters, and $27,000 to dance or pairs teams.
You can catch the action on December 24, 2006. ESPN will rebroadcast the final from 4-7pm, EST. Check your local listings, especially if you’re on the West Coast. The schedule for the final runs something like this: Friday, December 15, 2006, is the OD and SPs for ladies, men and pairs. Saturday is the free dance and free skate. As is typical, the exhibition gala rounds out the event on Sunday.
You might notice the athletes are quite fatigued after this long run of competitions – especially because several of the top skaters spent the summer touring. Many have fallen to injury and had to withdraw already. Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto withdrew this week due to Ben’s back injury after qualifying for the final. Most skaters tough it out, but the ice dancers have higher priorities; they want to be healthy at Nationals, which are only a month away and lead straight into Worlds.
When you watch the rebroadcast, however, you will hear a laundry list of injuries connected to most of the top skaters. At what point should we be asking if the series should be shortened for the sake of the health of the participants?
What you won’t see are Russian and US ladies, and this is a Grand Prix first since the likes of Kwan, Lipinski, Slutskaya and Cohen. The current US golden girl, Kimmie Meissner, didn’t even qualify for the final competition.
For a complete roster, including World Standings points and Grand Prix points, go to www.isu.org.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
The 22 year old embraces a roll that’s even more thrilling than being named Speed Skating Canada’s 2006 Female Skater of the Year. She and her husband are delighted at the news of their impending arrival.
In a press release from Speed Skating Canada, she is quoted as saying: “I’m very happy. Of course, this unexpected news puts an end to my season, but I’m planning to keep skating. A post-Olympic year is good to take time for myself. I am planning to stay in as good a shape as possible in order to get back on the ice for the 2007-08 season, and to prepare for the 2010 Olympic Games.”
During her time off, Anouk remains a national team member. Coaches and trainers have given her a pregnancy-specific routine to follow so that she can return to competition next season without major transition.
Anne Maltais, already scheduled to skate in this weekend’s Saguenay World Cup races, will sub for Anouk at the Montreal World Cup December 8th and 9th. Anne is certainly not the competitive star she is replacing, but we look forward to seeing if she can push herself toward the top of the leader board this year.
In 2004, Anouk was given the rising star award for her federation, and for good reason. Since exploding onto the world circuit, she hasn’t strayed far from the podium. Highlighting her career is a bronze medal win in the 500m at the Olympic Winter Games in Torino. She also was a member of the silver medal relay team at the games.
Anouk is sure to be in top form for the 2010 Olympics. There, her rooting section will be a little bigger than in 2006. Congratulations to her and her hubby.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
While tradition has the show kicking off at the famed Olympic Center in Lake Placid, New York, Scott Hamilton will take us where we’ve never been before. During this year’s Smucker’s Stars on Ice tour, champion figure skaters’ personal secrets will be revealed while they skate.
The production staff for SOI’s 21st season is equally stellar. They include: Scott Hamilton, Christopher Dean, Robert D. Kain, Gary V. Swain, Byron Allen, Jef Billings, Cindy Stuart, and Errol Reinart. SOI’s continued support of Boys & Girls Clubs of America through tour proceeds is equally commendable.
Still, it’s the performances we crave. With 40 U.S. arenas on their circuit this year, there are plenty of opportunities to get our fill of spectacular ice skating. Their “sneak peak” performance in Lake Placid on November 25, 2006 at 8:00pm includes two of the biggest names in the sport: Special Guests Ilia Kulik and Kimmie Meissner.
CAST LIST
The tour across the country begins January 13, 2007 and runs through March 24, 2007. The cast list includes guest stars who will appear in selected cities.
Champion performers include:
Jamie Salé & David Pelletier, 2002 Olympic Pairs Champions
Alexei Yagudin, 2002 Olympic Men’s Champion and four-time World Champion
Todd Eldredge, World Champion and six-time U.S. National Champion
Yuka Sato, World Champion and two-time Japanese National Ladies Champion
Kyoko Ina & John Zimmerman, World Bronze medalists and three-time U.S. National Pair Champions
Steven Cousins, eight-time British National Men’s Champion
Jason Dungjen, two-time U.S. National Pair Champion
Jennifer Robinson, six-time Canadian National Ladies Champion
Michael Weiss, two-time World Bronze medalist and three-time U.S. National Men’s Champion
Angela Nikodinov, two-time U.S. Ladies Bronze medalist
Ekaterina Gordeeva, two-time Olympic Pair Champion and four-time World Pair Champion
Ilia Kulik, 1998 Olympic Champion and two-time Russian National Men’s Champion
Kurt Browning, four-time World Champion and four-time Canadian National Men’s Champion
TIP: To find out if your favorite star will be performing near you, click on his or her name on the “Cast” list at the top of the Stars on Ice website. Under the skater’s name at the top of the profile page, there will be another link titled: “In Select Cities.” Follow that link to a skater-specific Stars on Ice schedule.
Kristi Yamaguchi, Olympic and US Champion, will the host the ABC Television Network Special created from this year’s premier show. It will air December 30, 2006 from 5:00-6:00pm EST.
The national on sale date for all U.S. performances is November 20, 2006. According to their press release, the new Stars on Ice show is “the epitome of cool” and sure to sell out in many cities. Get your tickets early by going to www.starsonice.com.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Often skaters of non-European descent are underrepresented in the figure skating community. This website strives to support the growing population of minority athletes in the sport, so that people of all ethnicities will be encouraged to pursue their dreams in figure skating.
Find book reviews, athlete birthdays, competition highlights, profiles of leaders in each discipline, and other useful links. Additionally, each month BlackIce is spotlighting a minority skater whose achievements might inspire others to join in the sport.
This month, and certainly in the years to come, is novice men’s competitor Theron James. To read about him, or to nominate a minority skater who is climbing the competitive ranks and/or advancing the sport of figure skating, check out the BlackIce.com.
Particularly interesting is the “Did You Know” page. It lists interesting and little-known facts about figure skaters. For example: “Surya Bonaly was a pair skater.”
Also check out the “Legends” page. The premier bio is of Mabel Fairbanks, the first African American woman inducted into the United States Figure Skating Hall of Fame.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Visit the USFSA website for complete rules and directions. In a nutshell: “You are the team manager for a fictional collection of the top eligible figure skaters in the world today. The success of your fantasy team against other teams in the contest is based on the individual performances of your team members in upcoming, real-life competitions.”
The following championships are included in the game: US Nationals, Europeans, Four Continents Cup, and Worlds. Choose three each of men, ladies, pairs and dance teams from the game’s competitor’s list.
ISU rankings have been used to group competitors into three different categories. You must select at least one competitor from group A, one from B, and one from C.
If one of the skaters you choose withdraws from a competition, you are allowed to select a replacement before the event begins. Check the ISU and USFSA websites before committing to a final list of competitors, and make sure they are all still slated to compete.
Points are awarded based on how well the competitors you choose place in real life. Prizes for weekly and overall winners range from $25 to $100 credit to be spent on merchandise at the USFS online store.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Elite short track speed skaters will strut their stuff during a series of races on the World Cup tour of competitions listed below.
October 20-22, 2006: Changchun, China
October 27-29, 2006: Jeonju City, Korea
December 1-3, 2006: Saguenay, Canada
December 8-10, 2006: Montreal, Canada
February 2-4, 2007: Heerenveen, Netherlands
February 9-11, 2007: Budapest, Hungary
Who are the skaters to watch this season? Koreans currently hold 12 out of the 16 official world records listed. They are still the powerhouse to beat. Multiple junior world-record holder, Chun-Sa Byun, is tearing it up in the senior ranks. She tends to be a distance skater and should shine in the 1000m and 1500m. Olympic gold medalist Wang Meng should continue to make China proud. Awesome Ahn will, no doubt, help to maintain Korea’s dominance. World champion Canadian Francois-Louis Tremblay shows no signs of dropping off the leader board.
Do your top picks differ from mine? Let me know in the discussion boards. Also, check back frequently for results’ summaries as I cover these events.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Speed skating, short track, figure skating, and athlete links are on the left-hand side. Choose one to be directed to a selection of clips that recap greatest moments on ice from the games. Here are some of my favorites:
Figure Skating
Ladies
1. Sasha Cohen's short program has gone down in my book as one of the best I've ever seen. Her long program was marred by two huge mistakes early on & lacked her usual fire, but she still managed to enchant the crowd.
2. Arakawa's long program was clean and a conservative example of good skating. She is very lyrical, but not nearly the ballerina as rival Cohen.
Men's
1. Plushenko's long program was all business with no emotion, but he asserted his dominance as the long-time king of the ice. Evgeni, we know you're the jump master, but can't you infuse your routines with some of that crazy creativity you give us during exhibition programs?
2. Lysacek's long program created the comeback stir of the night, catapulting him from tenth to fourth overall despite illness and a disastrous short.
Ice Dance
1. Belbin & Agosto's OD was sexy, fun, engaged the crowd, and shot them from sixth to second place.
2. Navka and Kostomorov's free dance was interesting and golden, proving that the Russian's still rule the sport - despite the Americans nipping at their heels.
Pairs
1. Inoue & Baldwin's throw triple axel in the short program helped them win a fourth-place finish and a place in Olympic Figure Skating history - despite Inoue being a cancer survivor.
2. The Zhang's attempt at a quad throw had a scary ending but gave the skaters the opportunity to define the Olympic spirit with their fight to finish second.
Speed Skating
Short Track
1. Apolo's 500m gold medal win was a great performance, but not quite as great as his break dancing moves in 2002. Be sure to watch both videos.
2. South Korea battled Canadian and Italian teams to win the exciting women's relay.
Long Track
1. Chad Hedrick's emotional win in the 5000m celebrated the life and support of his grandmother who died thirteen years prior to the day of the race.
2. "Recap: Speeding into History" shows the amazing women's 5000m lineup. Hughes, Klassen and Pechstein earned history-making medals in this race.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
1970-1972 US pairs champions JoJo Starbuck and Ken Shelley (also a US men's national champion) will be honored at this year's fund raiser.
Paul Wylie will be the Master of Ceremonies, while John Nicks, who coached JoJo and Ken, chairs the event. Ann Greenthal, Joan Sabatino, and Diane Samuelsen are co-chairs for the evening.
Can't afford a $350-$5000 table? General admission tickets for the show are only $20. Proceeds support Ice Theatre's performances for the 2006-2007 season.
For tickets, contact the Ice Theatre of New York office at (212) 929-5811.
They have some amazing photos posted on their website and DotPhoto gallery. To access the gallery, click on "Photos" under the "REPERTORY HIGHLIGHTS" subtitle.
Enjoy!
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
As a student at the University of Denver, Michelle will concentrate on her studies and healing from the extensive surgery she underwent this summer.
She told the USFSA: "'I have taken a one-year-at-a-time approach to my figure skating plans,' Kwan said. 'Education is very important to me and this year I have decided to put college first. Next year at this time I will again evaluate all my options including returning to competitive skating.'"
To read the full announcement, go to www.usfsa.org/news.asp.
Even though Michelle has been sitting out a lot of competitions and shows lately (after touring with Champions on Ice,) she's still not ready to call it quits before 2010.
Let me know if you think it's time for the queen of the ice to relinquish her throne to skaters who might be more deserving but less likely to win in her shadow. Should Michelle Kwan retire?
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Communication No. 1416 declares that an event must be sanctioned by the International Skating Union in order for its listed members to suffer no repercussions for participating in celebrity skating television shows.
In order to qualify for sanction, an event must use the ISU judging system and its officials, pay membership dues, and follow rules set forth by the union.
Many favorite skaters have determined that they are in the clear since the show is pitched to advertisers as "entertainment" and not "competition." The ISU clarifies: "If any such program involves: (i) judging of any kind, AND (ii) international participation by skaters (whether eligible or ineligible) and/or officials from at least 2 ISU Members/countries, the program" requires a sanction.
What does this really mean to the people who work at the show? If a professional skater, like Peggy Fleming or Scott Hamilton, meaning even those who have retired from eligible competition, participates in a non-ISU sanctioned skating event that presents judging of any kind in any way, they may lose their ability forever to officiate in any way at Europeans, Worlds, or the Olympics.
The popularity of our sport increases as its visibility does. Celebrity skating shows positively promote interest in skating, and gain attention when the biggest names show up for rehearsal.
The ISU seems to be shooting itself in the foot with this one. More interest, after all, means more members, which equals more funding coming in for the union.
Whichever offers the highest potential (long-term) paycheck, ISU coaching & judging verses celebrity skating "competitions," will gain the allegiance of the figure skating star.
Forcing skaters to choose sides is less-than-productive mandate.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
The Bay State Speedskating Club trains skaters in the Boston and Providence area. They encourage first timers to check out the sport during one of their ice sessions, currently scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Thy remind skaters that a bicycle helmet, hockey or figure skates, knee pads and gloves are plenty sufficient when you're trying out speed skating. Email RussellCurtis@Comcast.net with questions.
They're gearing up for the Bay State Short Track Championships November 18, 2006, 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.. at the Iorio Arena, Walpole, Massachusetts. Download an application & information here.
September 23-24 is the Ellis Edge Short Track Camp, Falmouth, ME. Their focus is: "Ultimate Acceleration - Ultimate Power. Discover the newest secret to maximum speed!" Their "Try Speedskating" will Friday night and is free to camp participants. camp includes on and off ice technique, 7 hours of ice time, video analysis, a continental breakfast and snacks. Although registration forms were due in August, check out www.ellisedge.com to see if they can squeeze you in last minute so you can work with former Coach of the Year, Sue Ellis.
September 22-24 is the US Speedskating Development Camp by Amy Peterson, at the US Olympic Training Center in Lake Placid, NY. The official deadline was September 1, but there may still be room for participants. U.S. Speedskating members, ages 12-25, can prepare for the new season during daily ice sessions, off-ice instruction and training, classroom sessions, and teambuilding activities. Club coaches are encouraged to attend and assist
*Note: The development camp scheduled in Lake Placid for October has been cancelled.
Get directions to the following rinks and training sites: Ted Iorio Arena in Walpole MA, Long Track Pond in Chelmsford MA, Prospect Hill Park on Totten Pond Road in Waltham MA, Blue Hills in Milton MA, Elm Bank in Natick MA, and Lake Placid NY.
Return to the Speedskating Directory.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Well, here's a quick tidbit to help you justify your athletic addiction.
According to Fitness-Facts.com, figure skating and speed skating are excellent means of exercise.
While there's no news flash there, I thought you might like to know that our sport has been recognized for cardio-respiratory, aerobic/interval, and anaerobic benefits.
It also ranked well for muscle building, coordination enhancing, and body fat reducing (burning around 400 calories per hour, depending on what kind of skating and level you're participating in.)
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Ashley Wagner of Washington, and Megan Hyatt of Illinois, captured the ladies' gold and silver.
Austin Kanallakan from Colorado, and Curran Oi from Massachusetts, won the men's top two spots as well.
Ice dancers Madison Hubbell and Keiffer Hubbell are taking home to Michigan a silver medal after narrowly being beaten by the Russian team of Ekaterina Bobrova and Dmitri Soloviev.
The next stop for the Junior Grand Prix Series is in Hungary. For more details on these competitions, log on to theUnited States Figure Skating Association's website.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Find out which of your favorite figure skaters and entertainers are performing at this season's Disson shows. Cast lists have been added to the article: "Disson Skating Shows Winter '06".
This years' events include appearances by Scott Hamilton, Kurt Browning and many other stars from the world of Olympic figure skating and gymnastics. They are joined by big names, such as Michael Bolton and Gretchin Wilson, from the fashion and entertainment world.
Live performance and broadcast dates are also given.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Has Canada turned out yet another legendary singer? Elvis Stojko hopes so. He's just finished recording his debut album.
Twice Olympic figure skating silver medalist, Elvis - true to his name sake - says he has always loved music. He told the Canadian Press: "My mom was a dancer. My dad's a singer, and I've always had [music] in my life."
Now 34 years old, Elvis began taking voice lessons and working on his singing about five years ago. The "support and good technique" he received gave him confidence to pursue this and similar projects. Elvis has also appeared in a 2004 stage production of Grease.
Mark Lalama produced the album, which Elvis describes as hot and edgy adult contemporary. While the songs are not autobiographical, the album is very personal. Elvis hopes to share his music particularly with friends, family and fans who have supported his career throughout the years. The album is expected to be in stores by Christmas.
In the mean time, Elvis remains ever the athlete. Last year he captured a silver medal at the World Kickboxing and Karate Association amateur championships in Niagara Falls. Thankfully, Elvis also continues to skate professionally.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
The United States Figure Skating Association has given us a tentative calendar for major televised skating events of the 2006-2007 season. Air times are only for the Eastern time zone, so check your local listings before making the artichoke dip.
U.S. Figure Skating Campbell's Cup (Live) takes place 10/15 and will air live from 1-3:00pm on ABC.
The 2006 Skate America ladies short programs will take place 10/26-10/29, airing 10/29 from 1-2:00pm on ABC. The men's free, pairs free and free dance will take place on the dates above. ESPN will be covering these events on 10/29 from 4-7:00pm. The ladies free program is also to be taped on those dates, but we won't get to watch it at home until ABC airs the event on 11/5 from 5-6:00pm.
2006 Marshalls U.S. Figure Skating Challenge will air live on 12/10 from 1-3:00pm on ABC.
The 2007 State Farm U.S. Championships takes place on 1/21-28/2007. The men's and ladies' short programs will air 1/25 at 9pm-12am on ESPN2. Watch the pairs and dance free skates on 1/26 from 11:30-2:30am on ESPN2. The ladies and men take to the ice during live television broadcast 1/27. Watch the women from 4-6pm on ABC and the men from 11pm-1:00am on ESPN2.
A 2007 Championship recap will air 2/4 from 12:30-2:30pm on ABC. The ladies programs will also be rebroadcast on that date from 9pm-12:00am on ESPN2. Exhibition numbers from these U.S. Championships, taped 1/28, can be seen 2/18 from 4-6pm on ABC.
ISU Four Continents Championships takes place 2/8-2/11. Watch it on ESPN 2/18 from 4-7pm.
2007 Marshalls International Figure Skating Showcase will be shown live 4/14 from 4-6:00pm on ABC.
SkateCanada, the official governing body for Canadian figure skaters, has released the following event information:
2006 Skate Canada International -- November 2-5, 2006, Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre, Victoria, BC. All-event tickets, at $149 and $130 plus taxes and surcharges, have been on sale since November '05 and are a at the Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre box office, by phone (250) 220-7777 or 1-866-514-5050 and www.selectyourtickets.com.
2007 BMO Financial Group Canadian Championships -- January 15-21, 2007, Halifax Metro Centre, Halifax, NS. Contact: 2007canadians@skatecanada.ca for inquiries and www.ticketatlantic.ca or (902) 451-1221 for tickets. All-event packages are $145 for upper bowl and $170 for the lower bowl seats. Prices don't include taxes and service fees. Tickets have been on sale since last January, so you'd better get yours quickly. Also, volunteer applications must be received by August 15.
2007 ISU World Synchronized Skating Championships -- March 28-31, 2007, John Labatt Centre, London, ON. All-event tickets, ranging from $25-$40, are Available at 1-866-4JLC-TIX (1-866-455-2849) after Monday, September 18, 2006, at 10:00 EST.
2007 BMO Financial Group Skate Canada Junior Nationals January 31-February 3, 2007, Powerade Centre, Brampton, ON. For information, email: jrnats2007@skatecanada.ca.
Check back for more 2006-2007 skating competitions and events from around the globe.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
For more than 20 years, the Ice Theatre of New York has strived to change the face of figure skating. While emphasizing skating as an art form, ITNY integrates into the sport contemporary dance, music and visual effects. The National Endowment for the Arts, the New York State Council on the Arts, and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs has recognized ITNY as a not-for-profit dance company. ITNY focuses on local performances and outreach programs in hopes of aiding the development of new audiences and skaters.
Here's a peak at their upcoming schedule.
The Ice Theatre of New York will be hosting its 2006 Annual Fall Benefit Gala honoring Jojo Starbuck and Ken Shelley. The event will take place Tuesday, October 24, 2006. For more information, call (212) 929-5811.
The 2007 free concert series continues at the pond at Bryant Park from October 2006 to January 2007. This second season features the Ice Theatre of New York Ensemble and special guest artists performing on New York City's newest outdoor rink.
The Ice Theatre will also be performing for the free series at one of the most famous rinks in the world: the rink at Rockefeller plaza. They will be skating from January to March 2007.
The Skating Complex at Riverbank State Park will also offer free ice skating concerts and group skating January through April 2007 during the New Works and Young Artists Series at Riverbank State Park.
For more information about ITNY, visit their website or email itny@icetheatre.org.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
The United States Figure Skating Association has released some important updates for competitive skaters. Foremost, however, a big congratulations goes out to Matt Savoie who is a recently-appointed ISU singles and pairs technical committee athlete representative.
According to www.usfsa.org, there singles skaters who perform the flying camel spin - a required element for 2006-2007 junior short programs - should consult Clarifications/Rule Interpretations. The ISU has basically decided that "in order to attain a Level 4, the skate will be permitted to do the 'Butterfly' entry for credit for bullet #5 - 'Difficult variation of air or landing position'."
Other ISU communications are delineated in their Technical Documents section. The namely affect ice dancing and synchro skaters at the moment. For an overview of these considerations, read the article:
title="ISU Changes to Ice Dance Rules"> "ISU Changes to Ice Dance Rules."
Also important is the special notification to coaches and skaters regarding sit spins. "A sit position is obtained when the angle of the skating leg in the knee is not more than 90 degrees." If the position is considered "upright," with the butt higher than the knee, there will be a GOE reduction of -1 to -3.
I'm glad for this stipulation as I see a lot of younger skaters getting away with less than acceptable sits. Perfecting the sit, however, is easier said than done and requires concentrated off-ice strength training.
My butt has been below my knee in the upright position since before college. I wonder how much the deduction is for that.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
If you're heading to Sun Valley, Idaho, this week don't miss "StyleICED," the Sun Valley Figure Skating Club's Annual Fashion Show. If you do miss it, put it on your must-do list for next year. After all, Sun Valley is a premier destination for figure skaters and skating enthusiasts. (Read more about skating at Sun Valley in the article: "Skate with Stars in Sun Valley.")
On Wednesday, August 9th at 5:00pm, skaters of all ages will show off clothes from local retailers and their sport in style as they sail around Sun Valley's Outdoor Ice Rink. A silent auction will be held after the show to benefit the club. The following items are up for bids (I've always wanted to say that.):
A Sun Valley ski pass, Mackay River trip, Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch overnight, Orcas Island getaway, gift certificates to local businesses and more.
The money raised goes to the skaters' development fund. Admission is $5.00 and tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance at the Sun Valley Skate Shop. For more information, visit www.sunvalleyfsc.com/events.asp.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
The Hartford Civic Center is set to host Skate America 2006. Contact them for ticketing information at (860) 525 4500.
New for Skate America are limited edition Platinum passes available for $295. Gold All-Event tickets for $195, Gold group tickets for $165, Silver All-Event tickets at $150, and Silver group tickets for $125 are also offered. Holders of All-Event tickets are entitled to attend all four sessions and daily practices.
Three days of Olympic-style figure skating competition features ice dancing, singles and pairs skating. Sunday's exhibition showcases performances by week's top skaters.
As part of the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating series, Skate America attracts more than 60 of the world's top figure skaters from around the globe. Confirmed competitors will be announced in the upcoming months.
ABC and ESPN will be broadcasting the competition nationally, and the event can be seen internationally throughout Canada, Japan, Russia, France, Italy and Germany, and other nations.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Include some friendly ice dancing competition in your New England leaf peeping trip to New York State this year. Get your entry forms in by August 25, 2006 for this USFSA and Skate Canada sanctioned 2006 Lake Placid Pro Am Dance Classic held at the Olympic Center on September 30th. Entry forms can be found on lakeplacidskating.com. Dancers of all ages are welcomed to compete.
This competition takes place less than two months following the famed 2006 Lake Placid Ice Dance Championships. August 1-5 are the dates for the 2006 competition, with the initial rounds beginning August 2nd. This event attracts hundreds of contestants and spectators each year and includes open and solo dances as well as levels from the eligible ranks and shadow dancing.
Check back for reviews of both competitions.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
*Full Name: Alexandra Pauline Cohen. Sasha is the common nickname that reveals her Ukrainian roots.
*Birthday: October 26, 1984 in Westwood, California
*Siblings: One younger sister, Natasha
*Membership: Orange County Figure Skating Club
*Began Training: When she was seven years old
*Home Rink: Aliso Viejo
*Off-ice training: Stretching, pilates and ballet.
*Career Highlights: 2006 State Farm U.S. Champion, Olympic Silver Medalist, World Bronze Medalist, one of 2003's "Women of Achievement in Sports," winner of Trophée Lalique, Skate Canada, Smart Ones Skate America, Campbell's Classic, and the ISU Grand Prix Final
*Most Memorable Moment: Stepping out on the ice at her first US National Championships
*Collects: Beanie Babies and unicorns
*Hobbies: Enjoys going to the beach and cooking with her family
*Long-Term Goals: Become a fashion designer
*Interesting Facts: Sasha earned several gymnastics awards, received the Presidential Award for Academic Excellence, works with Girls Inc. and Covenant House charities
*See Her in Person: After every Champion on Ice show, Sasha signs autographs in the "Meet & Greet" line.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
The United States Anti-Doping Agency has put together a fun little quiz with information that might have a big impact in the lives of competitive athletes.
The object of the game is to answer as many questions correctly in a minute and a half - and learn some interesting facts related to sports and supplementation. Questions are worth 100, 300 or 500 points, with bonus questions being doubled. You also get extra points for beating the clock.
Your time will stop at the explanation of each answer, so pause a moment in your quest for a perfect score to read what they have to say. Covering issues from common drugs to oil dripping from nude athletes, this amusing game is worth the loud applause each correct answer gives you. (It's been so long since I had people cheering for me like that; I played it twice.)
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Korean national team coach, Jaesu Chun, will coach camp participants, as will several other elite US National and Olympic team skaters. There are 3-day or 7-day camp options, and the curriculum will include components from basic technical skills up to higher level racing tactics.
The published cost is $295, which includes coaching, 21 hours of ice time, 21 hours of dry land training, BBQ socials, meals, laser tag, and entry to the competition. The camp is limited to only 30 skaters, but the competition that follows is expected to draw 100 competitors this year.
Only short track will be raced this year as the coordinators of the program say they are focusing on helping skaters improve their baseline performances. Skaters of all ages and abilities are encouraged to take advantage of the week-long training program.
For more information, try www.richmondspeedskating.com or the Richmond Ice Zone (804) 378-7465. Download the registration booklet from: https://webpoint.usspeedskating.org/files/Event_PDFs/393_Event_Info.pdf.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
According to the USFSA website, Exhibition of Champions tickets are already sold out for the 2007 State Farm U.S. Figure Skating Championships.
January 21-28, 2007, Spokane, Washington will host the best skaters in the country, but you'll have to buy tickets for the other events quickly, or you might not get a seat.
The All-Event Ticket Package, available at www.ticketswest.com or 1-866-USA-2007 for about $500, guarantees fans admission to every ticketed event except the Exhibition.
Tickets to individual events - if they're not sold out by then - will go on sale sometime in late Fall.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Read the article, "Should Michelle Kwan Retire?" Voice your opinion in the discussion that follows.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Calling Ice Dancers of All Levels: The 2006 Lake Placid Ice Dance Championships are set to draw hundreds of skaters to the Olympic Village August 1-5, 2006. If you plan on competing at this Future Champions Series Event, get your application and fees in by the June 15, 2006, deadline. Practice ice time, housing, and event information are available on the Lake Placid Skating website.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
If you're in the Norwich, Connecticut area on May 13, 2006, attend the Fifth Annual Great Skate to Ice Out Cancer at The Norwich Ice Rink, 641 New London Turn Pike. During the evening show, watch two-time Olympic Bronze Medallist Tim Goebel perform. The skating exhibition also features 2005 US National Ice Dance Silver Medallists Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukov. The "early show" runs 4-5pm, and the "evening show" is 6-8pm. The cost per show is a $5 and $10 donation, respectively. For direction to The Rink, call (860) 892-2555, or visit their website.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
Canadian Ice Dance Champions Wing & Lowe retire from eligible competition, while the US ice dance team of Jamie Silverstein & Ryan O'Meara take a break from the competition scene.
Kimmie Meissner and other skating stars thrilled delegates at the 2006 USFSA Governing Council Meeting in Orlando.
Several events are being hosted during May by US and Canadian skating clubs, and that means there are many opportunities to learn and volunteer at competitions or exhibitions.
Lastly, the ISU posted clarifications and amendments to their judging system for singles and pairs skaters.
Read the article: "Up-to-Date, April-May 2006" for details on any of these stories.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
As the competitive skating season winds down, we look forward to enjoying skating shows and professional competitions. In a surprising but delightful combination, Disson-produced Skating and Gymnastic Spectacular is, for many fans, a dream come true. Performances are detailed in the article to the right.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
In her first appearance at these championships, USA's medal long-shot Kimmie Meissner accomplished what she never even thought possible this year. She took home the title of "Best Female Figure Skater in the World." Her charming performances and sky-high technical scores totaled 218.33 and pushed the gold out of Japan's Fumie Suguri, who had to settle for a silver and 209.74 points. Fan's breathed a sigh of: "At least she got something" relief when Sasha Cohen, also representing the United States, earned 208.88 - due mostly to bonus points from her spins -- won the bronze.
Elena Sokolova of Russia finished fourth with 202.27 points. Yukari Nakano of Japan earned the fifth spot and a total score of 195.65. Sweden's Sarah Meier finished sixth by a small margin with 195.11 points, while Joannie Rochette, earning 189.41 points, placed a respectable seventh in front of her hometown crowd. USA's Emily Hughes, sister of 2002 Olympic gold medalist Sarah Hughes, earned 184.75 points and came in eighth.
Switzerland's Champion Stephane Lambiel, with a total final score of 274.22, took a commanding lead over second place finisher, Brian Joubert of France who had 270.83 points. USA's Evan Lysacek ended up about fifteen points behind the gold and silver medalists, but his score - 255.22 -- was enough to earn him the bronze medal.
Nobunari Oda of Japan finish fourth, earning 251.21 points, ahead of Canada's Emanuel Sandhu (249.89 points) and then Jeffrey Buttle (241.59 points) in the fifth and sixth spots, respectively. USA's Johnny Weir, considered by some to be a controversial "loose canon," ended the competition in seventh place with 235.57 points total.
Posted by Timbre Beck-Murphy
After the "Forerunner," a prelude race to the events, twelve pairs of men and women skated the 500 meter. Later, the 3000m and 5000m was raced. The scores from all the distances raced this weekend combine to name the overall men's and ladies' champions. Personal best times and, possibly, a world record, were expected to be posted as ice technicians tailored the rink surface, making it exceptionally fast.
The anticipation of new records being set combined with unique personalities of all the athletes to create a great competitive atmosphere. Canadian dream team ladies Klassen and Christine Nesbit heated up the ice together in the last draw of the 500. Two men made their senior level debuts after capturing junior titles, and Americans Chad Hedrick and Shani Davis competed side by side in their draw for the 5000 meter. These men have put their Torino tiff behind them and focus on become the All-Around Champion. Read complete coverage of the events and a closer look at the athletes.