The Figure Skating Thread

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Um, so what's up with Michelle Kwan? She cut her practice short so they're saying she may pull out? Uh, did she knock someone else out of an Olympic spot? If so, then I'm sorry honey. I don't care how bad it hurts get your boney-ass out there and skate. You knew you have had injury problems and a groin issue. If you didn't KNOW you could do it you should have stayed home.

Sorry....I think she's a brat. :beatup:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Um, so what's up with Michelle Kwan? She cut her practice short so they're saying she may pull out? Uh, did she knock someone else out of an Olympic spot? If so, then I'm sorry honey. I don't care how bad it hurts get your boney-ass out there and skate. You knew you have had injury problems and a groin issue. If you didn't KNOW you could do it you should have stayed home.

Sorry....I think she's a brat. :beatup:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Um, so what's up with Michelle Kwan? She cut her practice short so they're saying she may pull out? Uh, did she knock someone else out of an Olympic spot? If so, then I'm sorry honey. I don't care how bad it hurts get your boney-ass out there and skate. You knew you have had injury problems and a groin issue. If you didn't KNOW you could do it you should have stayed home.

Sorry....I think she's a brat. :beatup:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Um, so what's up with Michelle Kwan? She cut her practice short so they're saying she may pull out? Uh, did she knock someone else out of an Olympic spot? If so, then I'm sorry honey. I don't care how bad it hurts get your boney-ass out there and skate. You knew you have had injury problems and a groin issue. If you didn't KNOW you could do it you should have stayed home.

Sorry....I think she's a brat. :beatup:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Um, so what's up with Michelle Kwan? She cut her practice short so they're saying she may pull out? Uh, did she knock someone else out of an Olympic spot? If so, then I'm sorry honey. I don't care how bad it hurts get your boney-ass out there and skate. You knew you have had injury problems and a groin issue. If you didn't KNOW you could do it you should have stayed home.

Sorry....I think she's a brat. :beatup:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Um, so what's up with Michelle Kwan? She cut her practice short so they're saying she may pull out? Uh, did she knock someone else out of an Olympic spot? If so, then I'm sorry honey. I don't care how bad it hurts get your boney-ass out there and skate. You knew you have had injury problems and a groin issue. If you didn't KNOW you could do it you should have stayed home.

Sorry....I think she's a brat. :beatup:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Um, so what's up with Michelle Kwan? She cut her practice short so they're saying she may pull out? Uh, did she knock someone else out of an Olympic spot? If so, then I'm sorry honey. I don't care how bad it hurts get your boney-ass out there and skate. You knew you have had injury problems and a groin issue. If you didn't KNOW you could do it you should have stayed home.

Sorry....I think she's a brat. :beatup:

[Shell]

except that probably means one less medal for the US if she does stay, because she looked awful in practice even though she wasn't even skating her routine.

[Shell]

except that probably means one less medal for the US if she does stay, because she looked awful in practice even though she wasn't even skating her routine.

[Shell]

except that probably means one less medal for the US if she does stay, because she looked awful in practice even though she wasn't even skating her routine.

[Shell]

except that probably means one less medal for the US if she does stay, because she looked awful in practice even though she wasn't even skating her routine.

[Shell]

except that probably means one less medal for the US if she does stay, because she looked awful in practice even though she wasn't even skating her routine.

[Shell]

except that probably means one less medal for the US if she does stay, because she looked awful in practice even though she wasn't even skating her routine.

[Shell]

except that probably means one less medal for the US if she does stay, because she looked awful in practice even though she wasn't even skating her routine.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

except that probably means one less medal for the US if she does stay, because she looked awful in practice even though she wasn't even skating her routine.

Even better!

My primary concern was the poor kid she knocked out of a spot. We can't replace her, though, right? I guess they don't have a taxi squad.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

except that probably means one less medal for the US if she does stay, because she looked awful in practice even though she wasn't even skating her routine.

Even better!

My primary concern was the poor kid she knocked out of a spot. We can't replace her, though, right? I guess they don't have a taxi squad.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

except that probably means one less medal for the US if she does stay, because she looked awful in practice even though she wasn't even skating her routine.

Even better!

My primary concern was the poor kid she knocked out of a spot. We can't replace her, though, right? I guess they don't have a taxi squad.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

except that probably means one less medal for the US if she does stay, because she looked awful in practice even though she wasn't even skating her routine.

Even better!

My primary concern was the poor kid she knocked out of a spot. We can't replace her, though, right? I guess they don't have a taxi squad.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

except that probably means one less medal for the US if she does stay, because she looked awful in practice even though she wasn't even skating her routine.

Even better!

My primary concern was the poor kid she knocked out of a spot. We can't replace her, though, right? I guess they don't have a taxi squad.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

except that probably means one less medal for the US if she does stay, because she looked awful in practice even though she wasn't even skating her routine.

Even better!

My primary concern was the poor kid she knocked out of a spot. We can't replace her, though, right? I guess they don't have a taxi squad.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

except that probably means one less medal for the US if she does stay, because she looked awful in practice even though she wasn't even skating her routine.

Even better!

My primary concern was the poor kid she knocked out of a spot. We can't replace her, though, right? I guess they don't have a taxi squad.

[nccanes]

At the risk of revealing that I know too much about figure skating :lol:....

The women's event isn't for another 10 days, so there's plenty of time for her to feel better, be better, etc. Cohen isn't even in Italy yet and Kwan just sat thru the long opening ceremonies.

But the reason she's there is because she was evaluated by a panel of 5 folks a few weeks ago and she did both of her programs completely, except 1 particular jump. They were convinced that she was not only deserving of 1 of the 3 spots, but a chance to medal.

I have no clue if she's reinjured her groin since or what, but I think she 'earned' her spot fair and square - at least as far as the world of figure skating goes. Much like Nancy Kerrigan got a bye into the Olympics after the knee whack.

If she can't perform, then it's unfortunate, but I don't think she's done anything underhanded in this whole thing.

I think she was just being perfectly honest with the media on how she felt after her first practice, when she could have glossed over it with cliches. I know you like that honesty SHC. ;)

The USA has 3 slots for women in figure skating in part because of her performance at worlds last year. The 'alternate' was Emily Hughes (little sis of Sara) who would be considered an extremely looooong shot for a medal and who is about 16 (I think), so she'll have plenty of future chances. USA figure skating's job is to send the best team to the games, the only slot guaranteed is the winner of the US Nat'ls - the rest is from a "selection committee" - and that's who they selected.

:beatup:

Oh and while I agree - figure skating seems full of brats (probably the way they are covered in the media), I can think of a long list of skaters I'd label brats before Kwan. Lipinski, Kerrigan, even Cohen. :evil:

[nccanes]

At the risk of revealing that I know too much about figure skating :lol:....

The women's event isn't for another 10 days, so there's plenty of time for her to feel better, be better, etc. Cohen isn't even in Italy yet and Kwan just sat thru the long opening ceremonies.

But the reason she's there is because she was evaluated by a panel of 5 folks a few weeks ago and she did both of her programs completely, except 1 particular jump. They were convinced that she was not only deserving of 1 of the 3 spots, but a chance to medal.

I have no clue if she's reinjured her groin since or what, but I think she 'earned' her spot fair and square - at least as far as the world of figure skating goes. Much like Nancy Kerrigan got a bye into the Olympics after the knee whack.

If she can't perform, then it's unfortunate, but I don't think she's done anything underhanded in this whole thing.

I think she was just being perfectly honest with the media on how she felt after her first practice, when she could have glossed over it with cliches. I know you like that honesty SHC. ;)

The USA has 3 slots for women in figure skating in part because of her performance at worlds last year. The 'alternate' was Emily Hughes (little sis of Sara) who would be considered an extremely looooong shot for a medal and who is about 16 (I think), so she'll have plenty of future chances. USA figure skating's job is to send the best team to the games, the only slot guaranteed is the winner of the US Nat'ls - the rest is from a "selection committee" - and that's who they selected.

:beatup:

Oh and while I agree - figure skating seems full of brats (probably the way they are covered in the media), I can think of a long list of skaters I'd label brats before Kwan. Lipinski, Kerrigan, even Cohen. :evil:

[nccanes]

At the risk of revealing that I know too much about figure skating :lol:....

The women's event isn't for another 10 days, so there's plenty of time for her to feel better, be better, etc. Cohen isn't even in Italy yet and Kwan just sat thru the long opening ceremonies.

But the reason she's there is because she was evaluated by a panel of 5 folks a few weeks ago and she did both of her programs completely, except 1 particular jump. They were convinced that she was not only deserving of 1 of the 3 spots, but a chance to medal.

I have no clue if she's reinjured her groin since or what, but I think she 'earned' her spot fair and square - at least as far as the world of figure skating goes. Much like Nancy Kerrigan got a bye into the Olympics after the knee whack.

If she can't perform, then it's unfortunate, but I don't think she's done anything underhanded in this whole thing.

I think she was just being perfectly honest with the media on how she felt after her first practice, when she could have glossed over it with cliches. I know you like that honesty SHC. ;)

The USA has 3 slots for women in figure skating in part because of her performance at worlds last year. The 'alternate' was Emily Hughes (little sis of Sara) who would be considered an extremely looooong shot for a medal and who is about 16 (I think), so she'll have plenty of future chances. USA figure skating's job is to send the best team to the games, the only slot guaranteed is the winner of the US Nat'ls - the rest is from a "selection committee" - and that's who they selected.

:beatup:

Oh and while I agree - figure skating seems full of brats (probably the way they are covered in the media), I can think of a long list of skaters I'd label brats before Kwan. Lipinski, Kerrigan, even Cohen. :evil:

[nccanes]

At the risk of revealing that I know too much about figure skating :lol:....

The women's event isn't for another 10 days, so there's plenty of time for her to feel better, be better, etc. Cohen isn't even in Italy yet and Kwan just sat thru the long opening ceremonies.

But the reason she's there is because she was evaluated by a panel of 5 folks a few weeks ago and she did both of her programs completely, except 1 particular jump. They were convinced that she was not only deserving of 1 of the 3 spots, but a chance to medal.

I have no clue if she's reinjured her groin since or what, but I think she 'earned' her spot fair and square - at least as far as the world of figure skating goes. Much like Nancy Kerrigan got a bye into the Olympics after the knee whack.

If she can't perform, then it's unfortunate, but I don't think she's done anything underhanded in this whole thing.

I think she was just being perfectly honest with the media on how she felt after her first practice, when she could have glossed over it with cliches. I know you like that honesty SHC. ;)

The USA has 3 slots for women in figure skating in part because of her performance at worlds last year. The 'alternate' was Emily Hughes (little sis of Sara) who would be considered an extremely looooong shot for a medal and who is about 16 (I think), so she'll have plenty of future chances. USA figure skating's job is to send the best team to the games, the only slot guaranteed is the winner of the US Nat'ls - the rest is from a "selection committee" - and that's who they selected.

:beatup:

Oh and while I agree - figure skating seems full of brats (probably the way they are covered in the media), I can think of a long list of skaters I'd label brats before Kwan. Lipinski, Kerrigan, even Cohen. :evil:

[nccanes]

At the risk of revealing that I know too much about figure skating :lol:....

The women's event isn't for another 10 days, so there's plenty of time for her to feel better, be better, etc. Cohen isn't even in Italy yet and Kwan just sat thru the long opening ceremonies.

But the reason she's there is because she was evaluated by a panel of 5 folks a few weeks ago and she did both of her programs completely, except 1 particular jump. They were convinced that she was not only deserving of 1 of the 3 spots, but a chance to medal.

I have no clue if she's reinjured her groin since or what, but I think she 'earned' her spot fair and square - at least as far as the world of figure skating goes. Much like Nancy Kerrigan got a bye into the Olympics after the knee whack.

If she can't perform, then it's unfortunate, but I don't think she's done anything underhanded in this whole thing.

I think she was just being perfectly honest with the media on how she felt after her first practice, when she could have glossed over it with cliches. I know you like that honesty SHC. ;)

The USA has 3 slots for women in figure skating in part because of her performance at worlds last year. The 'alternate' was Emily Hughes (little sis of Sara) who would be considered an extremely looooong shot for a medal and who is about 16 (I think), so she'll have plenty of future chances. USA figure skating's job is to send the best team to the games, the only slot guaranteed is the winner of the US Nat'ls - the rest is from a "selection committee" - and that's who they selected.

:beatup:

Oh and while I agree - figure skating seems full of brats (probably the way they are covered in the media), I can think of a long list of skaters I'd label brats before Kwan. Lipinski, Kerrigan, even Cohen. :evil:

[nccanes]

At the risk of revealing that I know too much about figure skating :lol:....

The women's event isn't for another 10 days, so there's plenty of time for her to feel better, be better, etc. Cohen isn't even in Italy yet and Kwan just sat thru the long opening ceremonies.

But the reason she's there is because she was evaluated by a panel of 5 folks a few weeks ago and she did both of her programs completely, except 1 particular jump. They were convinced that she was not only deserving of 1 of the 3 spots, but a chance to medal.

I have no clue if she's reinjured her groin since or what, but I think she 'earned' her spot fair and square - at least as far as the world of figure skating goes. Much like Nancy Kerrigan got a bye into the Olympics after the knee whack.

If she can't perform, then it's unfortunate, but I don't think she's done anything underhanded in this whole thing.

I think she was just being perfectly honest with the media on how she felt after her first practice, when she could have glossed over it with cliches. I know you like that honesty SHC. ;)

The USA has 3 slots for women in figure skating in part because of her performance at worlds last year. The 'alternate' was Emily Hughes (little sis of Sara) who would be considered an extremely looooong shot for a medal and who is about 16 (I think), so she'll have plenty of future chances. USA figure skating's job is to send the best team to the games, the only slot guaranteed is the winner of the US Nat'ls - the rest is from a "selection committee" - and that's who they selected.

:beatup:

Oh and while I agree - figure skating seems full of brats (probably the way they are covered in the media), I can think of a long list of skaters I'd label brats before Kwan. Lipinski, Kerrigan, even Cohen. :evil:

[nccanes]

At the risk of revealing that I know too much about figure skating :lol:....

The women's event isn't for another 10 days, so there's plenty of time for her to feel better, be better, etc. Cohen isn't even in Italy yet and Kwan just sat thru the long opening ceremonies.

But the reason she's there is because she was evaluated by a panel of 5 folks a few weeks ago and she did both of her programs completely, except 1 particular jump. They were convinced that she was not only deserving of 1 of the 3 spots, but a chance to medal.

I have no clue if she's reinjured her groin since or what, but I think she 'earned' her spot fair and square - at least as far as the world of figure skating goes. Much like Nancy Kerrigan got a bye into the Olympics after the knee whack.

If she can't perform, then it's unfortunate, but I don't think she's done anything underhanded in this whole thing.

I think she was just being perfectly honest with the media on how she felt after her first practice, when she could have glossed over it with cliches. I know you like that honesty SHC. ;)

The USA has 3 slots for women in figure skating in part because of her performance at worlds last year. The 'alternate' was Emily Hughes (little sis of Sara) who would be considered an extremely looooong shot for a medal and who is about 16 (I think), so she'll have plenty of future chances. USA figure skating's job is to send the best team to the games, the only slot guaranteed is the winner of the US Nat'ls - the rest is from a "selection committee" - and that's who they selected.

:beatup:

Oh and while I agree - figure skating seems full of brats (probably the way they are covered in the media), I can think of a long list of skaters I'd label brats before Kwan. Lipinski, Kerrigan, even Cohen. :evil:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

I appreciate her honesty, if that's what it was that created the headline (which was all I saw) that said she might have to pull out due to her groin issues.

I believe one Sara Hughes was considered an extremely loooooong shot in 2002 as well.

Seriously, about Michelle Kwan? She's always ranked right up there with Nancy Kerrigan in bratdom to me. And Kerrigan's picture is next to the word "brat" in the dictionary. But I don't follow the sport.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

I appreciate her honesty, if that's what it was that created the headline (which was all I saw) that said she might have to pull out due to her groin issues.

I believe one Sara Hughes was considered an extremely loooooong shot in 2002 as well.

Seriously, about Michelle Kwan? She's always ranked right up there with Nancy Kerrigan in bratdom to me. And Kerrigan's picture is next to the word "brat" in the dictionary. But I don't follow the sport.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

I appreciate her honesty, if that's what it was that created the headline (which was all I saw) that said she might have to pull out due to her groin issues.

I believe one Sara Hughes was considered an extremely loooooong shot in 2002 as well.

Seriously, about Michelle Kwan? She's always ranked right up there with Nancy Kerrigan in bratdom to me. And Kerrigan's picture is next to the word "brat" in the dictionary. But I don't follow the sport.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

I appreciate her honesty, if that's what it was that created the headline (which was all I saw) that said she might have to pull out due to her groin issues.

I believe one Sara Hughes was considered an extremely loooooong shot in 2002 as well.

Seriously, about Michelle Kwan? She's always ranked right up there with Nancy Kerrigan in bratdom to me. And Kerrigan's picture is next to the word "brat" in the dictionary. But I don't follow the sport.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

I appreciate her honesty, if that's what it was that created the headline (which was all I saw) that said she might have to pull out due to her groin issues.

I believe one Sara Hughes was considered an extremely loooooong shot in 2002 as well.

Seriously, about Michelle Kwan? She's always ranked right up there with Nancy Kerrigan in bratdom to me. And Kerrigan's picture is next to the word "brat" in the dictionary. But I don't follow the sport.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

I appreciate her honesty, if that's what it was that created the headline (which was all I saw) that said she might have to pull out due to her groin issues.

I believe one Sara Hughes was considered an extremely loooooong shot in 2002 as well.

Seriously, about Michelle Kwan? She's always ranked right up there with Nancy Kerrigan in bratdom to me. And Kerrigan's picture is next to the word "brat" in the dictionary. But I don't follow the sport.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

I appreciate her honesty, if that's what it was that created the headline (which was all I saw) that said she might have to pull out due to her groin issues.

I believe one Sara Hughes was considered an extremely loooooong shot in 2002 as well.

Seriously, about Michelle Kwan? She's always ranked right up there with Nancy Kerrigan in bratdom to me. And Kerrigan's picture is next to the word "brat" in the dictionary. But I don't follow the sport.

[nccanes]

I appreciate her honesty, if that's what it was that created the headline (which was all I saw) that said she might have to pull out due to her groin issues.

I believe one Sara Hughes was considered an extremely loooooong shot in 2002 as well.

Nah - I think the skating people knew she could medal or win gold - I won't bore you with why, but Sasha Cohen was a media darling and Kwan's return, it didn't get mainstream media headlines.

And yeah, her comment was in her post practice (mandatory) press conference. I'm sure it went on for some time, they showed numerous clips of her up on this massive podium, sitting answering questions. She was obvioulsy upset about her practice (from the clips of it they showed) and they were asking about her injury, etc. I think she was probably a little emotionally worked up, but I guess she's got some doubt creeping in and answered honestly.


Seriously, about Michelle Kwan? She's always ranked right up there with Nancy Kerrigan in bratdom to me. And Kerrigan's picture is next to the word "brat" in the dictionary. But I don't follow the sport.

Neither do I. :angel:

Nah - she's never struck me this way at all. But they are probably all less-bratty in reality than they are portrayed in the over-hyped drama of figure skating. (Except Lipinski - she seemed like a real pain in the ass. :beatup:)

[nccanes]

I appreciate her honesty, if that's what it was that created the headline (which was all I saw) that said she might have to pull out due to her groin issues.

I believe one Sara Hughes was considered an extremely loooooong shot in 2002 as well.

Nah - I think the skating people knew she could medal or win gold - I won't bore you with why, but Sasha Cohen was a media darling and Kwan's return, it didn't get mainstream media headlines.

And yeah, her comment was in her post practice (mandatory) press conference. I'm sure it went on for some time, they showed numerous clips of her up on this massive podium, sitting answering questions. She was obvioulsy upset about her practice (from the clips of it they showed) and they were asking about her injury, etc. I think she was probably a little emotionally worked up, but I guess she's got some doubt creeping in and answered honestly.


Seriously, about Michelle Kwan? She's always ranked right up there with Nancy Kerrigan in bratdom to me. And Kerrigan's picture is next to the word "brat" in the dictionary. But I don't follow the sport.

Neither do I. :angel:

Nah - she's never struck me this way at all. But they are probably all less-bratty in reality than they are portrayed in the over-hyped drama of figure skating. (Except Lipinski - she seemed like a real pain in the ass. :beatup:)

[nccanes]

I appreciate her honesty, if that's what it was that created the headline (which was all I saw) that said she might have to pull out due to her groin issues.

I believe one Sara Hughes was considered an extremely loooooong shot in 2002 as well.

Nah - I think the skating people knew she could medal or win gold - I won't bore you with why, but Sasha Cohen was a media darling and Kwan's return, it didn't get mainstream media headlines.

And yeah, her comment was in her post practice (mandatory) press conference. I'm sure it went on for some time, they showed numerous clips of her up on this massive podium, sitting answering questions. She was obvioulsy upset about her practice (from the clips of it they showed) and they were asking about her injury, etc. I think she was probably a little emotionally worked up, but I guess she's got some doubt creeping in and answered honestly.


Seriously, about Michelle Kwan? She's always ranked right up there with Nancy Kerrigan in bratdom to me. And Kerrigan's picture is next to the word "brat" in the dictionary. But I don't follow the sport.

Neither do I. :angel:

Nah - she's never struck me this way at all. But they are probably all less-bratty in reality than they are portrayed in the over-hyped drama of figure skating. (Except Lipinski - she seemed like a real pain in the ass. :beatup:)

[nccanes]

I appreciate her honesty, if that's what it was that created the headline (which was all I saw) that said she might have to pull out due to her groin issues.

I believe one Sara Hughes was considered an extremely loooooong shot in 2002 as well.

Nah - I think the skating people knew she could medal or win gold - I won't bore you with why, but Sasha Cohen was a media darling and Kwan's return, it didn't get mainstream media headlines.

And yeah, her comment was in her post practice (mandatory) press conference. I'm sure it went on for some time, they showed numerous clips of her up on this massive podium, sitting answering questions. She was obvioulsy upset about her practice (from the clips of it they showed) and they were asking about her injury, etc. I think she was probably a little emotionally worked up, but I guess she's got some doubt creeping in and answered honestly.


Seriously, about Michelle Kwan? She's always ranked right up there with Nancy Kerrigan in bratdom to me. And Kerrigan's picture is next to the word "brat" in the dictionary. But I don't follow the sport.

Neither do I. :angel:

Nah - she's never struck me this way at all. But they are probably all less-bratty in reality than they are portrayed in the over-hyped drama of figure skating. (Except Lipinski - she seemed like a real pain in the ass. :beatup:)

[nccanes]

I appreciate her honesty, if that's what it was that created the headline (which was all I saw) that said she might have to pull out due to her groin issues.

I believe one Sara Hughes was considered an extremely loooooong shot in 2002 as well.

Nah - I think the skating people knew she could medal or win gold - I won't bore you with why, but Sasha Cohen was a media darling and Kwan's return, it didn't get mainstream media headlines.

And yeah, her comment was in her post practice (mandatory) press conference. I'm sure it went on for some time, they showed numerous clips of her up on this massive podium, sitting answering questions. She was obvioulsy upset about her practice (from the clips of it they showed) and they were asking about her injury, etc. I think she was probably a little emotionally worked up, but I guess she's got some doubt creeping in and answered honestly.


Seriously, about Michelle Kwan? She's always ranked right up there with Nancy Kerrigan in bratdom to me. And Kerrigan's picture is next to the word "brat" in the dictionary. But I don't follow the sport.

Neither do I. :angel:

Nah - she's never struck me this way at all. But they are probably all less-bratty in reality than they are portrayed in the over-hyped drama of figure skating. (Except Lipinski - she seemed like a real pain in the ass. :beatup:)

[nccanes]

I appreciate her honesty, if that's what it was that created the headline (which was all I saw) that said she might have to pull out due to her groin issues.

I believe one Sara Hughes was considered an extremely loooooong shot in 2002 as well.

Nah - I think the skating people knew she could medal or win gold - I won't bore you with why, but Sasha Cohen was a media darling and Kwan's return, it didn't get mainstream media headlines.

And yeah, her comment was in her post practice (mandatory) press conference. I'm sure it went on for some time, they showed numerous clips of her up on this massive podium, sitting answering questions. She was obvioulsy upset about her practice (from the clips of it they showed) and they were asking about her injury, etc. I think she was probably a little emotionally worked up, but I guess she's got some doubt creeping in and answered honestly.


Seriously, about Michelle Kwan? She's always ranked right up there with Nancy Kerrigan in bratdom to me. And Kerrigan's picture is next to the word "brat" in the dictionary. But I don't follow the sport.

Neither do I. :angel:

Nah - she's never struck me this way at all. But they are probably all less-bratty in reality than they are portrayed in the over-hyped drama of figure skating. (Except Lipinski - she seemed like a real pain in the ass. :beatup:)

[nccanes]

I appreciate her honesty, if that's what it was that created the headline (which was all I saw) that said she might have to pull out due to her groin issues.

I believe one Sara Hughes was considered an extremely loooooong shot in 2002 as well.

Nah - I think the skating people knew she could medal or win gold - I won't bore you with why, but Sasha Cohen was a media darling and Kwan's return, it didn't get mainstream media headlines.

And yeah, her comment was in her post practice (mandatory) press conference. I'm sure it went on for some time, they showed numerous clips of her up on this massive podium, sitting answering questions. She was obvioulsy upset about her practice (from the clips of it they showed) and they were asking about her injury, etc. I think she was probably a little emotionally worked up, but I guess she's got some doubt creeping in and answered honestly.


Seriously, about Michelle Kwan? She's always ranked right up there with Nancy Kerrigan in bratdom to me. And Kerrigan's picture is next to the word "brat" in the dictionary. But I don't follow the sport.

Neither do I. :angel:

Nah - she's never struck me this way at all. But they are probably all less-bratty in reality than they are portrayed in the over-hyped drama of figure skating. (Except Lipinski - she seemed like a real pain in the ass. :beatup:)

[apolinar]

I am amazed at nccanes's vast knowledge of Figure skating politics. Now why didn't any reporters give the story the way you did? I feel so much more informed after reading that and have such a better understanding of how deserving Kwan is to be there.

That being said though, I'm with SHC. She's taking away valuable experience from Hughes that can be used four years from now when she's a contender. I don't wanna see another bronze or silver, or no medal performance from Kwan. I'll eat my words if she wins gold though, and I hope she can pull it off and justify her being there. But in the public eye she's still taking Hughes's spot if she doesn't win gold. I know that's high expectations but after hearing all those years how she was only there to win gold, and seeing the nasty look on her face when Lipinski won, I can't see any other reason why she didn't parlay her skating to professional status except to win gold this time. So now I have the same expectation from her.

Yes, I'm into the ladies' skating too. That' what you get when you do a little training under Caryn Kadavy's husband in Erie Pa for a few years.

[apolinar]

I am amazed at nccanes's vast knowledge of Figure skating politics. Now why didn't any reporters give the story the way you did? I feel so much more informed after reading that and have such a better understanding of how deserving Kwan is to be there.

That being said though, I'm with SHC. She's taking away valuable experience from Hughes that can be used four years from now when she's a contender. I don't wanna see another bronze or silver, or no medal performance from Kwan. I'll eat my words if she wins gold though, and I hope she can pull it off and justify her being there. But in the public eye she's still taking Hughes's spot if she doesn't win gold. I know that's high expectations but after hearing all those years how she was only there to win gold, and seeing the nasty look on her face when Lipinski won, I can't see any other reason why she didn't parlay her skating to professional status except to win gold this time. So now I have the same expectation from her.

Yes, I'm into the ladies' skating too. That' what you get when you do a little training under Caryn Kadavy's husband in Erie Pa for a few years.

[apolinar]

I am amazed at nccanes's vast knowledge of Figure skating politics. Now why didn't any reporters give the story the way you did? I feel so much more informed after reading that and have such a better understanding of how deserving Kwan is to be there.

That being said though, I'm with SHC. She's taking away valuable experience from Hughes that can be used four years from now when she's a contender. I don't wanna see another bronze or silver, or no medal performance from Kwan. I'll eat my words if she wins gold though, and I hope she can pull it off and justify her being there. But in the public eye she's still taking Hughes's spot if she doesn't win gold. I know that's high expectations but after hearing all those years how she was only there to win gold, and seeing the nasty look on her face when Lipinski won, I can't see any other reason why she didn't parlay her skating to professional status except to win gold this time. So now I have the same expectation from her.

Yes, I'm into the ladies' skating too. That' what you get when you do a little training under Caryn Kadavy's husband in Erie Pa for a few years.

[apolinar]

I am amazed at nccanes's vast knowledge of Figure skating politics. Now why didn't any reporters give the story the way you did? I feel so much more informed after reading that and have such a better understanding of how deserving Kwan is to be there.

That being said though, I'm with SHC. She's taking away valuable experience from Hughes that can be used four years from now when she's a contender. I don't wanna see another bronze or silver, or no medal performance from Kwan. I'll eat my words if she wins gold though, and I hope she can pull it off and justify her being there. But in the public eye she's still taking Hughes's spot if she doesn't win gold. I know that's high expectations but after hearing all those years how she was only there to win gold, and seeing the nasty look on her face when Lipinski won, I can't see any other reason why she didn't parlay her skating to professional status except to win gold this time. So now I have the same expectation from her.

Yes, I'm into the ladies' skating too. That' what you get when you do a little training under Caryn Kadavy's husband in Erie Pa for a few years.

[apolinar]

I am amazed at nccanes's vast knowledge of Figure skating politics. Now why didn't any reporters give the story the way you did? I feel so much more informed after reading that and have such a better understanding of how deserving Kwan is to be there.

That being said though, I'm with SHC. She's taking away valuable experience from Hughes that can be used four years from now when she's a contender. I don't wanna see another bronze or silver, or no medal performance from Kwan. I'll eat my words if she wins gold though, and I hope she can pull it off and justify her being there. But in the public eye she's still taking Hughes's spot if she doesn't win gold. I know that's high expectations but after hearing all those years how she was only there to win gold, and seeing the nasty look on her face when Lipinski won, I can't see any other reason why she didn't parlay her skating to professional status except to win gold this time. So now I have the same expectation from her.

Yes, I'm into the ladies' skating too. That' what you get when you do a little training under Caryn Kadavy's husband in Erie Pa for a few years.

[apolinar]

I am amazed at nccanes's vast knowledge of Figure skating politics. Now why didn't any reporters give the story the way you did? I feel so much more informed after reading that and have such a better understanding of how deserving Kwan is to be there.

That being said though, I'm with SHC. She's taking away valuable experience from Hughes that can be used four years from now when she's a contender. I don't wanna see another bronze or silver, or no medal performance from Kwan. I'll eat my words if she wins gold though, and I hope she can pull it off and justify her being there. But in the public eye she's still taking Hughes's spot if she doesn't win gold. I know that's high expectations but after hearing all those years how she was only there to win gold, and seeing the nasty look on her face when Lipinski won, I can't see any other reason why she didn't parlay her skating to professional status except to win gold this time. So now I have the same expectation from her.

Yes, I'm into the ladies' skating too. That' what you get when you do a little training under Caryn Kadavy's husband in Erie Pa for a few years.

[apolinar]

I am amazed at nccanes's vast knowledge of Figure skating politics. Now why didn't any reporters give the story the way you did? I feel so much more informed after reading that and have such a better understanding of how deserving Kwan is to be there.

That being said though, I'm with SHC. She's taking away valuable experience from Hughes that can be used four years from now when she's a contender. I don't wanna see another bronze or silver, or no medal performance from Kwan. I'll eat my words if she wins gold though, and I hope she can pull it off and justify her being there. But in the public eye she's still taking Hughes's spot if she doesn't win gold. I know that's high expectations but after hearing all those years how she was only there to win gold, and seeing the nasty look on her face when Lipinski won, I can't see any other reason why she didn't parlay her skating to professional status except to win gold this time. So now I have the same expectation from her.

Yes, I'm into the ladies' skating too. That' what you get when you do a little training under Caryn Kadavy's husband in Erie Pa for a few years.

[nccanes]

Well, I suppose it's like how Gretzky's been "covered" in this gambling thing - pick the things that make headlines - no matter. (Don Cherry just showed a bazillion Ca papers that literally had full page photos and 3 inch headlines "Gretzky: I Didn't Do It"

Funny how people see different things watching the same thing. I thought she was devastated when she lost to Lipinski, but handled it with sportsmanship. (And she should have won anyway. :p ;))

Karen Kadavy - I'm impressed. Didn't someone else here get lessons from Elena Bechke? StormchaserBH maybe?

So speaking of figure skating, I'm off to watch TV.

Oh and BTW, Hughes was selected to the World Championship team and will go up against most of the same folks in a month or so. :)

[nccanes]

Well, I suppose it's like how Gretzky's been "covered" in this gambling thing - pick the things that make headlines - no matter. (Don Cherry just showed a bazillion Ca papers that literally had full page photos and 3 inch headlines "Gretzky: I Didn't Do It"

Funny how people see different things watching the same thing. I thought she was devastated when she lost to Lipinski, but handled it with sportsmanship. (And she should have won anyway. :p ;))

Karen Kadavy - I'm impressed. Didn't someone else here get lessons from Elena Bechke? StormchaserBH maybe?

So speaking of figure skating, I'm off to watch TV.

Oh and BTW, Hughes was selected to the World Championship team and will go up against most of the same folks in a month or so. :)

[nccanes]

Well, I suppose it's like how Gretzky's been "covered" in this gambling thing - pick the things that make headlines - no matter. (Don Cherry just showed a bazillion Ca papers that literally had full page photos and 3 inch headlines "Gretzky: I Didn't Do It"

Funny how people see different things watching the same thing. I thought she was devastated when she lost to Lipinski, but handled it with sportsmanship. (And she should have won anyway. :p ;))

Karen Kadavy - I'm impressed. Didn't someone else here get lessons from Elena Bechke? StormchaserBH maybe?

So speaking of figure skating, I'm off to watch TV.

Oh and BTW, Hughes was selected to the World Championship team and will go up against most of the same folks in a month or so. :)

[nccanes]

Well, I suppose it's like how Gretzky's been "covered" in this gambling thing - pick the things that make headlines - no matter. (Don Cherry just showed a bazillion Ca papers that literally had full page photos and 3 inch headlines "Gretzky: I Didn't Do It"

Funny how people see different things watching the same thing. I thought she was devastated when she lost to Lipinski, but handled it with sportsmanship. (And she should have won anyway. :p ;))

Karen Kadavy - I'm impressed. Didn't someone else here get lessons from Elena Bechke? StormchaserBH maybe?

So speaking of figure skating, I'm off to watch TV.

Oh and BTW, Hughes was selected to the World Championship team and will go up against most of the same folks in a month or so. :)

[nccanes]

Well, I suppose it's like how Gretzky's been "covered" in this gambling thing - pick the things that make headlines - no matter. (Don Cherry just showed a bazillion Ca papers that literally had full page photos and 3 inch headlines "Gretzky: I Didn't Do It"

Funny how people see different things watching the same thing. I thought she was devastated when she lost to Lipinski, but handled it with sportsmanship. (And she should have won anyway. :p ;))

Karen Kadavy - I'm impressed. Didn't someone else here get lessons from Elena Bechke? StormchaserBH maybe?

So speaking of figure skating, I'm off to watch TV.

Oh and BTW, Hughes was selected to the World Championship team and will go up against most of the same folks in a month or so. :)

[nccanes]

Well, I suppose it's like how Gretzky's been "covered" in this gambling thing - pick the things that make headlines - no matter. (Don Cherry just showed a bazillion Ca papers that literally had full page photos and 3 inch headlines "Gretzky: I Didn't Do It"

Funny how people see different things watching the same thing. I thought she was devastated when she lost to Lipinski, but handled it with sportsmanship. (And she should have won anyway. :p ;))

Karen Kadavy - I'm impressed. Didn't someone else here get lessons from Elena Bechke? StormchaserBH maybe?

So speaking of figure skating, I'm off to watch TV.

Oh and BTW, Hughes was selected to the World Championship team and will go up against most of the same folks in a month or so. :)

[nccanes]

Well, I suppose it's like how Gretzky's been "covered" in this gambling thing - pick the things that make headlines - no matter. (Don Cherry just showed a bazillion Ca papers that literally had full page photos and 3 inch headlines "Gretzky: I Didn't Do It"

Funny how people see different things watching the same thing. I thought she was devastated when she lost to Lipinski, but handled it with sportsmanship. (And she should have won anyway. :p ;))

Karen Kadavy - I'm impressed. Didn't someone else here get lessons from Elena Bechke? StormchaserBH maybe?

So speaking of figure skating, I'm off to watch TV.

Oh and BTW, Hughes was selected to the World Championship team and will go up against most of the same folks in a month or so. :)

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Funny how people see different things watching the same thing. I thought she was devastated when she lost to Lipinski, but handled it with sportsmanship.

Wow, that is funny. We were the exact opposite. She was certainly devastated but we saw no sportsmanship at all. I thought she was a real b*tch. And I've always tried really hard to like her because I think she has the absolute best taste in all of figure skating and she's gorgeous (hey...it's no worse than picking teams based on helmets!).

I never had a problem with Lipinski, either. But, what I meant by not following it is we watch the major Olympic events and that was it. So, if she's ever done anything outside that we wouldn't have witnessed it. And, since she basically disappeared (from my view anyway) after she won there's not much to go on there.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Funny how people see different things watching the same thing. I thought she was devastated when she lost to Lipinski, but handled it with sportsmanship.

Wow, that is funny. We were the exact opposite. She was certainly devastated but we saw no sportsmanship at all. I thought she was a real b*tch. And I've always tried really hard to like her because I think she has the absolute best taste in all of figure skating and she's gorgeous (hey...it's no worse than picking teams based on helmets!).

I never had a problem with Lipinski, either. But, what I meant by not following it is we watch the major Olympic events and that was it. So, if she's ever done anything outside that we wouldn't have witnessed it. And, since she basically disappeared (from my view anyway) after she won there's not much to go on there.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Funny how people see different things watching the same thing. I thought she was devastated when she lost to Lipinski, but handled it with sportsmanship.

Wow, that is funny. We were the exact opposite. She was certainly devastated but we saw no sportsmanship at all. I thought she was a real b*tch. And I've always tried really hard to like her because I think she has the absolute best taste in all of figure skating and she's gorgeous (hey...it's no worse than picking teams based on helmets!).

I never had a problem with Lipinski, either. But, what I meant by not following it is we watch the major Olympic events and that was it. So, if she's ever done anything outside that we wouldn't have witnessed it. And, since she basically disappeared (from my view anyway) after she won there's not much to go on there.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Funny how people see different things watching the same thing. I thought she was devastated when she lost to Lipinski, but handled it with sportsmanship.

Wow, that is funny. We were the exact opposite. She was certainly devastated but we saw no sportsmanship at all. I thought she was a real b*tch. And I've always tried really hard to like her because I think she has the absolute best taste in all of figure skating and she's gorgeous (hey...it's no worse than picking teams based on helmets!).

I never had a problem with Lipinski, either. But, what I meant by not following it is we watch the major Olympic events and that was it. So, if she's ever done anything outside that we wouldn't have witnessed it. And, since she basically disappeared (from my view anyway) after she won there's not much to go on there.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Funny how people see different things watching the same thing. I thought she was devastated when she lost to Lipinski, but handled it with sportsmanship.

Wow, that is funny. We were the exact opposite. She was certainly devastated but we saw no sportsmanship at all. I thought she was a real b*tch. And I've always tried really hard to like her because I think she has the absolute best taste in all of figure skating and she's gorgeous (hey...it's no worse than picking teams based on helmets!).

I never had a problem with Lipinski, either. But, what I meant by not following it is we watch the major Olympic events and that was it. So, if she's ever done anything outside that we wouldn't have witnessed it. And, since she basically disappeared (from my view anyway) after she won there's not much to go on there.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Funny how people see different things watching the same thing. I thought she was devastated when she lost to Lipinski, but handled it with sportsmanship.

Wow, that is funny. We were the exact opposite. She was certainly devastated but we saw no sportsmanship at all. I thought she was a real b*tch. And I've always tried really hard to like her because I think she has the absolute best taste in all of figure skating and she's gorgeous (hey...it's no worse than picking teams based on helmets!).

I never had a problem with Lipinski, either. But, what I meant by not following it is we watch the major Olympic events and that was it. So, if she's ever done anything outside that we wouldn't have witnessed it. And, since she basically disappeared (from my view anyway) after she won there's not much to go on there.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Funny how people see different things watching the same thing. I thought she was devastated when she lost to Lipinski, but handled it with sportsmanship.

Wow, that is funny. We were the exact opposite. She was certainly devastated but we saw no sportsmanship at all. I thought she was a real b*tch. And I've always tried really hard to like her because I think she has the absolute best taste in all of figure skating and she's gorgeous (hey...it's no worse than picking teams based on helmets!).

I never had a problem with Lipinski, either. But, what I meant by not following it is we watch the major Olympic events and that was it. So, if she's ever done anything outside that we wouldn't have witnessed it. And, since she basically disappeared (from my view anyway) after she won there's not much to go on there.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

[SouthernHockeyChick]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

[Wingman69]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

Actually they did it 7 hours ago ;) , but it was a very nice move. :eek2: :usa:

[Wingman69]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

Actually they did it 7 hours ago ;) , but it was a very nice move. :eek2: :usa:

[Wingman69]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

Actually they did it 7 hours ago ;) , but it was a very nice move. :eek2: :usa:

[Wingman69]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

Actually they did it 7 hours ago ;) , but it was a very nice move. :eek2: :usa:

[Wingman69]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

Actually they did it 7 hours ago ;) , but it was a very nice move. :eek2: :usa:

[Wingman69]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

Actually they did it 7 hours ago ;) , but it was a very nice move. :eek2: :usa:

[Wingman69]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

Actually they did it 7 hours ago ;) , but it was a very nice move. :eek2: :usa:

[Canesluver]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

And they have the best costumes, too. ;)

[Canesluver]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

And they have the best costumes, too. ;)

[Canesluver]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

And they have the best costumes, too. ;)

[Canesluver]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

And they have the best costumes, too. ;)

[Canesluver]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

And they have the best costumes, too. ;)

[Canesluver]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

And they have the best costumes, too. ;)

[Canesluver]

The American pairs skaters Inoue and Baldwin (I think that's right) just landed the first throw triple axle (axel?) ever in Olympic history!

It was pretty freakin' cool, too. :eek2:

And they have the best costumes, too. ;)

[StormChaserBH]

Karen Kadavy - I'm impressed. Didn't someone else here get lessons from Elena Bechke? StormchaserBH maybe?

Yup... As a refresher from when I learned to skate many moons ago and to prep for getting into playing rec-league hockey (and because I was bringing my kids for their lessons anyway) I was taking the class at Cary Ice House for a few months a couple years ago ... Elena was the teacher for the adult group. Very nice, and also pretty demanding as you may expect -- she'd demonstrate some outside-edge stuff we were supposed to do and we'd look at each other with a "Yeah, RIGHT!" kind of look... :eek:

[StormChaserBH]

Karen Kadavy - I'm impressed. Didn't someone else here get lessons from Elena Bechke? StormchaserBH maybe?

Yup... As a refresher from when I learned to skate many moons ago and to prep for getting into playing rec-league hockey (and because I was bringing my kids for their lessons anyway) I was taking the class at Cary Ice House for a few months a couple years ago ... Elena was the teacher for the adult group. Very nice, and also pretty demanding as you may expect -- she'd demonstrate some outside-edge stuff we were supposed to do and we'd look at each other with a "Yeah, RIGHT!" kind of look... :eek:

[StormChaserBH]

Karen Kadavy - I'm impressed. Didn't someone else here get lessons from Elena Bechke? StormchaserBH maybe?

Yup... As a refresher from when I learned to skate many moons ago and to prep for getting into playing rec-league hockey (and because I was bringing my kids for their lessons anyway) I was taking the class at Cary Ice House for a few months a couple years ago ... Elena was the teacher for the adult group. Very nice, and also pretty demanding as you may expect -- she'd demonstrate some outside-edge stuff we were supposed to do and we'd look at each other with a "Yeah, RIGHT!" kind of look... :eek:

[StormChaserBH]

Karen Kadavy - I'm impressed. Didn't someone else here get lessons from Elena Bechke? StormchaserBH maybe?

Yup... As a refresher from when I learned to skate many moons ago and to prep for getting into playing rec-league hockey (and because I was bringing my kids for their lessons anyway) I was taking the class at Cary Ice House for a few months a couple years ago ... Elena was the teacher for the adult group. Very nice, and also pretty demanding as you may expect -- she'd demonstrate some outside-edge stuff we were supposed to do and we'd look at each other with a "Yeah, RIGHT!" kind of look... :eek:

[StormChaserBH]

Karen Kadavy - I'm impressed. Didn't someone else here get lessons from Elena Bechke? StormchaserBH maybe?

Yup... As a refresher from when I learned to skate many moons ago and to prep for getting into playing rec-league hockey (and because I was bringing my kids for their lessons anyway) I was taking the class at Cary Ice House for a few months a couple years ago ... Elena was the teacher for the adult group. Very nice, and also pretty demanding as you may expect -- she'd demonstrate some outside-edge stuff we were supposed to do and we'd look at each other with a "Yeah, RIGHT!" kind of look... :eek:

[StormChaserBH]

Karen Kadavy - I'm impressed. Didn't someone else here get lessons from Elena Bechke? StormchaserBH maybe?

Yup... As a refresher from when I learned to skate many moons ago and to prep for getting into playing rec-league hockey (and because I was bringing my kids for their lessons anyway) I was taking the class at Cary Ice House for a few months a couple years ago ... Elena was the teacher for the adult group. Very nice, and also pretty demanding as you may expect -- she'd demonstrate some outside-edge stuff we were supposed to do and we'd look at each other with a "Yeah, RIGHT!" kind of look... :eek:

[StormChaserBH]

Karen Kadavy - I'm impressed. Didn't someone else here get lessons from Elena Bechke? StormchaserBH maybe?

Yup... As a refresher from when I learned to skate many moons ago and to prep for getting into playing rec-league hockey (and because I was bringing my kids for their lessons anyway) I was taking the class at Cary Ice House for a few months a couple years ago ... Elena was the teacher for the adult group. Very nice, and also pretty demanding as you may expect -- she'd demonstrate some outside-edge stuff we were supposed to do and we'd look at each other with a "Yeah, RIGHT!" kind of look... :eek:

[nccanes]

Elena was on a recent episode of Art of the Athlete, on FitTV. The show was actually about Kristi Yamaguchi and her career/life, but it featured interviews with Elena along with Bret (and Kristi's coach, family, etc.). Lots of video of the RZ and the Garner Icehouse (with Kristi watching Bret practice and Elena coach, respectively).

Okay - just because we've had this Kwan/injury discussion I looked around a bit.

I believe she can withdraw up until 2/19 and Hughes can be her replacement. Ironically, Kwan was in Lillihammer in '94 after the Kerrigan/Harding incident in case Nancy couldn't skate (obviously she did). I think Kwan was 14 or something. So if the worst were to happen, Emily could step in it seems.

This article spells it out and she's quoted as saying:

"Physically, if I'm not able to skate, I would give my spot up," she said.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/olympics/2006/02/11/bc.oly.fig.kwanworkout.ap/

This article says Kwan was 13 in Lillihammer. I know they've raised the min age since then, but damn - that's young!

[nccanes]

Elena was on a recent episode of Art of the Athlete, on FitTV. The show was actually about Kristi Yamaguchi and her career/life, but it featured interviews with Elena along with Bret (and Kristi's coach, family, etc.). Lots of video of the RZ and the Garner Icehouse (with Kristi watching Bret practice and Elena coach, respectively).

Okay - just because we've had this Kwan/injury discussion I looked around a bit.

I believe she can withdraw up until 2/19 and Hughes can be her replacement. Ironically, Kwan was in Lillihammer in '94 after the Kerrigan/Harding incident in case Nancy couldn't skate (obviously she did). I think Kwan was 14 or something. So if the worst were to happen, Emily could step in it seems.

This article spells it out and she's quoted as saying:

"Physically, if I'm not able to skate, I would give my spot up," she said.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/olympics/2006/02/11/bc.oly.fig.kwanworkout.ap/

This article says Kwan was 13 in Lillihammer. I know they've raised the min age since then, but damn - that's young!

[nccanes]

Elena was on a recent episode of Art of the Athlete, on FitTV. The show was actually about Kristi Yamaguchi and her career/life, but it featured interviews with Elena along with Bret (and Kristi's coach, family, etc.). Lots of video of the RZ and the Garner Icehouse (with Kristi watching Bret practice and Elena coach, respectively).

Okay - just because we've had this Kwan/injury discussion I looked around a bit.

I believe she can withdraw up until 2/19 and Hughes can be her replacement. Ironically, Kwan was in Lillihammer in '94 after the Kerrigan/Harding incident in case Nancy couldn't skate (obviously she did). I think Kwan was 14 or something. So if the worst were to happen, Emily could step in it seems.

This article spells it out and she's quoted as saying:

"Physically, if I'm not able to skate, I would give my spot up," she said.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/olympics/2006/02/11/bc.oly.fig.kwanworkout.ap/

This article says Kwan was 13 in Lillihammer. I know they've raised the min age since then, but damn - that's young!

[nccanes]

Elena was on a recent episode of Art of the Athlete, on FitTV. The show was actually about Kristi Yamaguchi and her career/life, but it featured interviews with Elena along with Bret (and Kristi's coach, family, etc.). Lots of video of the RZ and the Garner Icehouse (with Kristi watching Bret practice and Elena coach, respectively).

Okay - just because we've had this Kwan/injury discussion I looked around a bit.

I believe she can withdraw up until 2/19 and Hughes can be her replacement. Ironically, Kwan was in Lillihammer in '94 after the Kerrigan/Harding incident in case Nancy couldn't skate (obviously she did). I think Kwan was 14 or something. So if the worst were to happen, Emily could step in it seems.

This article spells it out and she's quoted as saying:

"Physically, if I'm not able to skate, I would give my spot up," she said.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/olympics/2006/02/11/bc.oly.fig.kwanworkout.ap/

This article says Kwan was 13 in Lillihammer. I know they've raised the min age since then, but damn - that's young!

[nccanes]

Elena was on a recent episode of Art of the Athlete, on FitTV. The show was actually about Kristi Yamaguchi and her career/life, but it featured interviews with Elena along with Bret (and Kristi's coach, family, etc.). Lots of video of the RZ and the Garner Icehouse (with Kristi watching Bret practice and Elena coach, respectively).

Okay - just because we've had this Kwan/injury discussion I looked around a bit.

I believe she can withdraw up until 2/19 and Hughes can be her replacement. Ironically, Kwan was in Lillihammer in '94 after the Kerrigan/Harding incident in case Nancy couldn't skate (obviously she did). I think Kwan was 14 or something. So if the worst were to happen, Emily could step in it seems.

This article spells it out and she's quoted as saying:

"Physically, if I'm not able to skate, I would give my spot up," she said.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/olympics/2006/02/11/bc.oly.fig.kwanworkout.ap/

This article says Kwan was 13 in Lillihammer. I know they've raised the min age since then, but damn - that's young!

[nccanes]

Elena was on a recent episode of Art of the Athlete, on FitTV. The show was actually about Kristi Yamaguchi and her career/life, but it featured interviews with Elena along with Bret (and Kristi's coach, family, etc.). Lots of video of the RZ and the Garner Icehouse (with Kristi watching Bret practice and Elena coach, respectively).

Okay - just because we've had this Kwan/injury discussion I looked around a bit.

I believe she can withdraw up until 2/19 and Hughes can be her replacement. Ironically, Kwan was in Lillihammer in '94 after the Kerrigan/Harding incident in case Nancy couldn't skate (obviously she did). I think Kwan was 14 or something. So if the worst were to happen, Emily could step in it seems.

This article spells it out and she's quoted as saying:

"Physically, if I'm not able to skate, I would give my spot up," she said.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/olympics/2006/02/11/bc.oly.fig.kwanworkout.ap/

This article says Kwan was 13 in Lillihammer. I know they've raised the min age since then, but damn - that's young!

[nccanes]

Elena was on a recent episode of Art of the Athlete, on FitTV. The show was actually about Kristi Yamaguchi and her career/life, but it featured interviews with Elena along with Bret (and Kristi's coach, family, etc.). Lots of video of the RZ and the Garner Icehouse (with Kristi watching Bret practice and Elena coach, respectively).

Okay - just because we've had this Kwan/injury discussion I looked around a bit.

I believe she can withdraw up until 2/19 and Hughes can be her replacement. Ironically, Kwan was in Lillihammer in '94 after the Kerrigan/Harding incident in case Nancy couldn't skate (obviously she did). I think Kwan was 14 or something. So if the worst were to happen, Emily could step in it seems.

This article spells it out and she's quoted as saying:

"Physically, if I'm not able to skate, I would give my spot up," she said.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/olympics/2006/02/11/bc.oly.fig.kwanworkout.ap/

This article says Kwan was 13 in Lillihammer. I know they've raised the min age since then, but damn - that's young!

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Thanks for splitting this off! After it got going, I was wondering if I should have started an actual thread.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Thanks for splitting this off! After it got going, I was wondering if I should have started an actual thread.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Thanks for splitting this off! After it got going, I was wondering if I should have started an actual thread.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Thanks for splitting this off! After it got going, I was wondering if I should have started an actual thread.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Thanks for splitting this off! After it got going, I was wondering if I should have started an actual thread.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Thanks for splitting this off! After it got going, I was wondering if I should have started an actual thread.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

Thanks for splitting this off! After it got going, I was wondering if I should have started an actual thread.

[nccanes]

Thought of another bit if Kwan trivia. Several years ago, in the tradition of Bret/Kristi, she dated Brad Ference for a decent length of time. I always wondered if B/K fixed them up, since I think they were both playing for the Panthers at the time.

[nccanes]

Thought of another bit if Kwan trivia. Several years ago, in the tradition of Bret/Kristi, she dated Brad Ference for a decent length of time. I always wondered if B/K fixed them up, since I think they were both playing for the Panthers at the time.

[nccanes]

Thought of another bit if Kwan trivia. Several years ago, in the tradition of Bret/Kristi, she dated Brad Ference for a decent length of time. I always wondered if B/K fixed them up, since I think they were both playing for the Panthers at the time.

[nccanes]

Thought of another bit if Kwan trivia. Several years ago, in the tradition of Bret/Kristi, she dated Brad Ference for a decent length of time. I always wondered if B/K fixed them up, since I think they were both playing for the Panthers at the time.

[nccanes]

Thought of another bit if Kwan trivia. Several years ago, in the tradition of Bret/Kristi, she dated Brad Ference for a decent length of time. I always wondered if B/K fixed them up, since I think they were both playing for the Panthers at the time.

[nccanes]

Thought of another bit if Kwan trivia. Several years ago, in the tradition of Bret/Kristi, she dated Brad Ference for a decent length of time. I always wondered if B/K fixed them up, since I think they were both playing for the Panthers at the time.

[nccanes]

Thought of another bit if Kwan trivia. Several years ago, in the tradition of Bret/Kristi, she dated Brad Ference for a decent length of time. I always wondered if B/K fixed them up, since I think they were both playing for the Panthers at the time.

[SouthernHockeyChick]

OK, so, now I'm all crying for Michelle Kwan.

I don't care for her but it's sad to see this happen. I'm glad she did the right thing. And credit to her for doing the right thing. I can't imagine how hard it was.

Kwan drops out of Turin Olympics with groin injury; Hughes named as replacement

By NANCY ARMOUR, AP National Writer

TURIN, Italy (AP) -- Michelle Kwan's decade-long quest for Olympic gold came to a sorrowful end Sunday when she withdrew because of an injury, taking the biggest name out of the Turin Games.

Kwan cut short her first practice of the games the day before after straining a groin muscle, and the injury worsened as the day wore on. She withdrew after Dr. Jim Moeller evaluated her early Sunday morning and recommended she not continue.

"I wish I was here in better circumstances," Kwan said Sunday morning, her voice flat and her eyes puffy. "When I first put in my petition, I said I believed I'd be 100 percent by time the Olympics came around. But yesterday, after going on ice and feeling stiff ... I don't think that I can be 100 percent.

"I respect the Olympics too much to compete and I don't feel I can be at my best."

Emily Hughes was chosen by the U.S. Olympic Committee as Kwan's replacement.

Kwan has been the face of figure skating for a decade, and she owned the spotlight at these games -- despite being here for only four days. Her withdrawal is a loss for everyone, USOC chairman Peter Ueberroth said.

"Michelle Kwan means more to the United States Olympic Committee than maybe any athlete that's ever performed for the U.S. Olympic Committee," Ueberroth said. "She's been a leader, she's been gracious, she's somebody that cares for so many youngsters that are training in our country.

"She's a real loss to all of the United States Olympic Committee and to the United States of America, and I think to the world. She's made a courageous decision."

Olympic officials wasted little time approving the petition to put Hughes on the team. The 17-year-old, younger sister of 2002 Olympic champion Sarah Hughes, was third at last month's national championships.

She said in a Saturday interview with WNBC-TV in New York that she would be ready to travel to Turin if needed.

"Just point me in the direction and I'm there," Hughes said.

But that could be a challenge: Blizzard warnings were posted for the New York City area, where she lives, and dozens of flights were canceled at the city's three major airports.

When Hughes gets here, she'll join Sasha Cohen and Kimmie Meissner on the U.S. team. The women's competition begins Feb. 21.

Kwan said she would return to the United States so as not to be a distraction.

"I'm a little bit shocked," Cohen said. "I know how tough it is to come back from an injury and get yourself together. It's great she tried, but things don't always work out."

Kwan missed last month's U.S. nationals with a groin injury, and needed a medical exemption to join the Turin team. She was evaluated several times by U.S. Figure Skating doctors before she arrived in Turin, and they declared her fit to skate.

But she said she pulled the groin when she tried a triple flip Saturday, and the injury worsened throughout the day. After examining her, Moeller said Sunday he does not believe the current injury is related to the groin problem Kwan had during the national championships.

"She was cleared medically and told she had a complete recovery from the prior injuries," Moeller said. "Based on my assessment at this moment, I would have to say it's an acute new injury."

This was Kwan's last gasp for Olympic gold. Though she's defined the sport for the past decade, winning five world and nine U.S. titles, she came up heartbreakingly short at the Olympics. The favorite in both Nagano and Salt Lake City, she settled for silver in 1998 and a bronze in 2002.

Now 25, she hung around the past four years for one more shot at gold. But her hopes faded fast.

She missed the Grand Prix season with a hip injury, then missed the nationals with the groin injury. She looked sharp during a Jan. 27 monitoring session that solidified her spot on the team, doing back-to-back run-throughs of her long and short programs.

But she said the long plane ride to Italy, followed by marching in the opening ceremony, took a toll. By the time she returned to the athletes' village, she was starting to hurt.

When she woke up Saturday morning, it wasn't any better.

"It's an honor to represent your country. I didn't think twice about not going to the opening ceremony, or not going to practice. I have to get my legs under me," she said Sunday. "When I felt stiff, it's the Olympics, you've got to push. Unfortunately, it happened."

She didn't do her first jump, a smooth triple toe loop, until almost 14 minutes into the workout. She did a single flip, landed on two feet on her first triple flip, and fell hard on her next attempt at the jump. Kwan made one last try, but could only do a double, and the frustration was clear on her face.

More telling was her demeanor. With coach Rafael Arutunian still in transit, U.S. team leader Roger Glenn held her hand several times to comfort her. She had to wipe her eyes several times, and she left the practice 15 minutes before it ended -- an early exit for a woman who is meticulous about preparation.

She got treatment in the afternoon, but by evening she knew something was terribly wrong.

"It's physical pain that's keeping me from performing and skating," she said. "But it's also emotional pain as well because I had to make this tough decision."

That was clear with one look at her Sunday. Dressed in black, her eyes swollen, she had none of the sparkle the world has come to know. And though she tried to smile bravely, pain was etched across her face.

"It's always been a dream to win the Olympics and it's always an honor to represent your country," said Kwan, whose eyes filled with tears with every word she spoke. "My parents are here ... and they always want me to be happy, for their baby to win the gold and make my dreams come true.

"I have no regrets," she added, pausing to compose herself. "I tried my hardest. And if I don't win the gold, it's OK. I've had a great career. I've been very lucky. This is a sport, and it's beautiful."

[SouthernHockeyChick]

OK, so, now I'm all crying for Michelle Kwan.

I don't care for her but it's sad to see this happen. I'm glad she did the right thing. And credit to her for doing the right thing. I can't imagine how hard it was.

Kwan drops out of Turin Olympics with groin injury; Hughes named as replacement

By NANCY ARMOUR, AP National Writer

TURIN, Italy (AP) -- Michelle Kwan's decade-long quest for Olympic gold came to a sorrowful end Sunday when she withdrew because of an injury, taking the biggest name out of the Turin Games.

Kwan cut short her first practice of the games the day before after straining a groin muscle, and the injury worsened as the day wore on. She withdrew after Dr. Jim Moeller evaluated her early Sunday morning and recommended she not continue.

"I wish I was here in better circumstances," Kwan said Sunday morning, her voice flat and her eyes puffy. "When I first put in my petition, I said I believed I'd be 100 percent by time the Olympics came around. But yesterday, after going on ice and feeling stiff ... I don't think that I can be 100 percent.

"I respect the Olympics too much to compete and I don't feel I can be at my best."

Emily Hughes was chosen by the U.S. Olympic Committee as Kwan's replacement.

Kwan has been the face of figure skating for a decade, and she owned the spotlight at these games -- despite being here for only four days. Her withdrawal is a loss for everyone, USOC chairman Peter Ueberroth said.

"Michelle Kwan means more to the United States Olympic Committee than maybe any athlete that's ever performed for the U.S. Olympic Committee," Ueberroth said. "She's been a leader, she's been gracious, she's somebody that cares for so many youngsters that are training in our country.

"She's a real loss to all of the United States Olympic Committee and to the United States of America, and I think to the world. She's made a courageous decision."

Olympic officials wasted little time approving the petition to put Hughes on the team. The 17-year-old, younger sister of 2002 Olympic champion Sarah Hughes, was third at last month's national championships.

She said in a Saturday interview with WNBC-TV in New York that she would be ready to travel to Turin if needed.

"Just point me in the direction and I'm there," Hughes said.

But that could be a challenge: Blizzard warnings were posted for the New York City area, where she lives, and dozens of flights were canceled at the city's three major airports.

When Hughes gets here, she'll join Sasha Cohen and Kimmie Meissner on the U.S. team. The women's competition begins Feb. 21.

Kwan said she would return to the United States so as not to be a distraction.

"I'm a little bit shocked," Cohen said. "I know how tough it is to come back from an injury and get yourself together. It's great she tried, but things don't always work out."

Kwan missed last month's U.S. nationals with a groin injury, and needed a medical exemption to join the Turin team. She was evaluated several times by U.S. Figure Skating doctors before she arrived in Turin, and they declared her fit to skate.

But she said she pulled the groin when she tried a triple flip Saturday, and the injury worsened throughout the day. After examining her, Moeller said Sunday he does not believe the current injury is related to the groin problem Kwan had during the national championships.

"She was cleared medically and told she had a complete recovery from the prior injuries," Moeller said. "Based on my assessment at this moment, I would have to say it's an acute new injury."

This was Kwan's last gasp for Olympic gold. Though she's defined the sport for the past decade, winning five world and nine U.S. titles, she came up heartbreakingly short at the Olympics. The favorite in both Nagano and Salt Lake City, she settled for silver in 1998 and a bronze in 2002.

Now 25, she hung around the past four years for one more shot at gold. But her hopes faded fast.

She missed the Grand Prix season with a hip injury, then missed the nationals with the groin injury. She looked sharp during a Jan. 27 monitoring session that solidified her spot on the team, doing back-to-back run-throughs of her long and short programs.

But she said the long plane ride to Italy, followed by marching in the opening ceremony, took a toll. By the time she returned to the athletes' village, she was starting to hurt.

When she woke up Saturday morning, it wasn't any better.

"It's an honor to represent your country. I didn't think twice about not going to the opening ceremony, or not going to practice. I have to get my legs under me," she said Sunday. "When I felt stiff, it's the Olympics, you've got to push. Unfortunately, it happened."

She didn't do her first jump, a smooth triple toe loop, until almost 14 minutes into the workout. She did a single flip, landed on two feet on her first triple flip, and fell hard on her next attempt at the jump. Kwan made one last try, but could only do a double, and the frustration was clear on her face.

More telling was her demeanor. With coach Rafael Arutunian still in transit, U.S. team leader Roger Glenn held her hand several times to comfort her. She had to wipe her eyes several times, and she left the practice 15 minutes before it ended -- an early exit for a woman who is meticulous about preparation.

She got treatment in the afternoon, but by evening she knew something was terribly wrong.

"It's physical pain that's keeping me from performing and skating," she said. "But it's also emotional pain as well because I had to make this tough decision."

That was clear with one look at her Sunday. Dressed in black, her eyes swollen, she had none of the sparkle the world has come to know. And though she tried to smile bravely, pain was etched across her face.

"It's always been a dream to win the Olympics and it's always an honor to represent your country," said Kwan, whose eyes filled with tears with every word she spoke. "My parents are here ... and they always want me to be happy, for their baby to win the gold and make my dreams come true.

"I have no regrets," she added, pausing to compose herself. "I tried my hardest. And if I don't win the gold, it's OK. I've had a great career. I've been very lucky. This is a sport, and it's beautiful."

[SouthernHockeyChick]

OK, so, now I'm all crying for Michelle Kwan.

I don't care for her but it's sad to see this happen. I'm glad she did the right thing. And credit to her for doing the right thing. I can't imagine how hard it was.

Kwan drops out of Turin Olympics with groin injury; Hughes named as replacement

By NANCY ARMOUR, AP National Writer

TURIN, Italy (AP) -- Michelle Kwan's decade-long quest for Olympic gold came to a sorrowful end Sunday when she withdrew because of an injury, taking the biggest name out of the Turin Games.

Kwan cut short her first practice of the games the day before after straining a groin muscle, and the injury worsened as the day wore on. She withdrew after Dr. Jim Moeller evaluated her early Sunday morning and recommended she not continue.

"I wish I was here in better circumstances," Kwan said Sunday morning, her voice flat and her eyes puffy. "When I first put in my petition, I said I believed I'd be 100 percent by time the Olympics came around. But yesterday, after going on ice and feeling stiff ... I don't think that I can be 100 percent.

"I respect the Olympics too much to compete and I don't feel I can be at my best."

Emily Hughes was chosen by the U.S. Olympic Committee as Kwan's replacement.

Kwan has been the face of figure skating for a decade, and she owned the spotlight at these games -- despite being here for only four days. Her withdrawal is a loss for everyone, USOC chairman Peter Ueberroth said.

"Michelle Kwan means more to the United States Olympic Committee than maybe any athlete that's ever performed for the U.S. Olympic Committee," Ueberroth said. "She's been a leader, she's been gracious, she's somebody that cares for so many youngsters that are training in our country.

"She's a real loss to all of the United States Olympic Committee and to the United States of America, and I think to the world. She's made a courageous decision."

Olympic officials wasted little time approving the petition to put Hughes on the team. The 17-year-old, younger sister of 2002 Olympic champion Sarah Hughes, was third at last month's national championships.

She said in a Saturday interview with WNBC-TV in New York that she would be ready to travel to Turin if needed.

"Just point me in the direction and I'm there," Hughes said.

But that could be a challenge: Blizzard warnings were posted for the New York City area, where she lives, and dozens of flights were canceled at the city's three major airports.

When Hughes gets here, she'll join Sasha Cohen and Kimmie Meissner on the U.S. team. The women's competition begins Feb. 21.

Kwan said she would return to the United States so as not to be a distraction.

"I'm a little bit shocked," Cohen said. "I know how tough it is to come back from an injury and get yourself together. It's great she tried, but things don't always work out."

Kwan missed last month's U.S. nationals with a groin injury, and needed a medical exemption to join the Turin team. She was evaluated several times by U.S. Figure Skating doctors before she arrived in Turin, and they declared her fit to skate.

But she said she pulled the groin when she tried a triple flip Saturday, and the injury worsened throughout the day. After examining her, Moeller said Sunday he does not believe the current injury is related to the groin problem Kwan had during the national championships.

"She was cleared medically and told she had a complete recovery from the prior injuries," Moeller said. "Based on my assessment at this moment, I would have to say it's an acute new injury."

This was Kwan's last gasp for Olympic gold. Though she's defined the sport for the past decade, winning five world and nine U.S. titles, she came up heartbreakingly short at the Olympics. The favorite in both Nagano and Salt Lake City, she settled for silver in 1998 and a bronze in 2002.

Now 25, she hung around the past four years for one more shot at gold. But her hopes faded fast.

She missed the Grand Prix season with a hip injury, then missed the nationals with the groin injury. She looked sharp during a Jan. 27 monitoring session that solidified her spot on the team, doing back-to-back run-throughs of her long and short programs.

But she said the long plane ride to Italy, followed by marching in the opening ceremony, took a toll. By the time she returned to the athletes' village, she was starting to hurt.

When she woke up Saturday morning, it wasn't any better.

"It's an honor to represent your country. I didn't think twice about not going to the opening ceremony, or not going to practice. I have to get my legs under me," she said Sunday. "When I felt stiff, it's the Olympics, you've got to push. Unfortunately, it happened."

She didn't do her first jump, a smooth triple toe loop, until almost 14 minutes into the workout. She did a single flip, landed on two feet on her first triple flip, and fell hard on her next attempt at the jump. Kwan made one last try, but could only do a double, and the frustration was clear on her face.

More telling was her demeanor. With coach Rafael Arutunian still in transit, U.S. team leader Roger Glenn held her hand several times to comfort her. She had to wipe her eyes several times, and she left the practice 15 minutes before it ended -- an early exit for a woman who is meticulous about preparation.

She got treatment in the afternoon, but by evening she knew something was terribly wrong.

"It's physical pain that's keeping me from performing and skating," she said. "But it's also emotional pain as well because I had to make this tough decision."

That was clear with one look at her Sunday. Dressed in black, her eyes swollen, she had none of the sparkle the world has come to know. And though she tried to smile bravely, pain was etched across her face.

"It's always been a dream to win the Olympics and it's always an honor to represent your country," said Kwan, whose eyes filled with tears with every word she spoke. "My parents are here ... and they always want me to be happy, for their baby to win the gold and make my dreams come true.

"I have no regrets," she added, pausing to compose herself. "I tried my hardest. And if I don't win the gold, it's OK. I've had a great career. I've been very lucky. This is a sport, and it's beautiful."

[SouthernHockeyChick]

OK, so, now I'm all crying for Michelle Kwan.

I don't care for her but it's sad to see this happen. I'm glad she did the right thing. And credit to her for doing the right thing. I can't imagine how hard it was.

Kwan drops out of Turin Olympics with groin injury; Hughes named as replacement

By NANCY ARMOUR, AP National Writer

TURIN, Italy (AP) -- Michelle Kwan's decade-long quest for Olympic gold came to a sorrowful end Sunday when she withdrew because of an injury, taking the biggest name out of the Turin Games.

Kwan cut short her first practice of the games the day before after straining a groin muscle, and the injury worsened as the day wore on. She withdrew after Dr. Jim Moeller evaluated her early Sunday morning and recommended she not continue.

"I wish I was here in better circumstances," Kwan said Sunday morning, her voice flat and her eyes puffy. "When I first put in my petition, I said I believed I'd be 100 percent by time the Olympics came around. But yesterday, after going on ice and feeling stiff ... I don't think that I can be 100 percent.

"I respect the Olympics too much to compete and I don't feel I can be at my best."

Emily Hughes was chosen by the U.S. Olympic Committee as Kwan's replacement.

Kwan has been the face of figure skating for a decade, and she owned the spotlight at these games -- despite being here for only four days. Her withdrawal is a loss for everyone, USOC chairman Peter Ueberroth said.

"Michelle Kwan means more to the United States Olympic Committee than maybe any athlete that's ever performed for the U.S. Olympic Committee," Ueberroth said. "She's been a leader, she's been gracious, she's somebody that cares for so many youngsters that are training in our country.

"She's a real loss to all of the United States Olympic Committee and to the United States of America, and I think to the world. She's made a courageous decision."

Olympic officials wasted little time approving the petition to put Hughes on the team. The 17-year-old, younger sister of 2002 Olympic champion Sarah Hughes, was third at last month's national championships.

She said in a Saturday interview with WNBC-TV in New York that she would be ready to travel to Turin if needed.

"Just point me in the direction and I'm there," Hughes said.

But that could be a challenge: Blizzard warnings were posted for the New York City area, where she lives, and dozens of flights were canceled at the city's three major airports.

When Hughes gets here, she'll join Sasha Cohen and Kimmie Meissner on the U.S. team. The women's competition begins Feb. 21.

Kwan said she would return to the United States so as not to be a distraction.

"I'm a little bit shocked," Cohen said. "I know how tough it is to come back from an injury and get yourself together. It's great she tried, but things don't always work out."

Kwan missed last month's U.S. nationals with a groin injury, and needed a medical exemption to join the Turin team. She was evaluated several times by U.S. Figure Skating doctors before she arrived in Turin, and they declared her fit to skate.

But she said she pulled the groin when she tried a triple flip Saturday, and the injury worsened throughout the day. After examining her, Moeller said Sunday he does not believe the current injury is related to the groin problem Kwan had during the national championships.

"She was cleared medically and told she had a complete recovery from the prior injuries," Moeller said. "Based on my assessment at this moment, I would have to say it's an acute new injury."

This was Kwan's last gasp for Olympic gold. Though she's defined the sport for the past decade, winning five world and nine U.S. titles, she came up heartbreakingly short at the Olympics. The favorite in both Nagano and Salt Lake City, she settled for silver in 1998 and a bronze in 2002.

Now 25, she hung around the past four years for one more shot at gold. But her hopes faded fast.

She missed the Grand Prix season with a hip injury, then missed the nationals with the groin injury. She looked sharp during a Jan. 27 monitoring session that solidified her spot on the team, doing back-to-back run-throughs of her long and short programs.

But she said the long plane ride to Italy, followed by marching in the opening ceremony, took a toll. By the time she returned to the athletes' village, she was starting to hurt.

When she woke up Saturday morning, it wasn't any better.

"It's an honor to represent your country. I didn't think twice about not going to the opening ceremony, or not going to practice. I have to get my legs under me," she said Sunday. "When I felt stiff, it's the Olympics, you've got to push. Unfortunately, it happened."

She didn't do her first jump, a smooth triple toe loop, until almost 14 minutes into the workout. She did a single flip, landed on two feet on her first triple flip, and fell hard on her next attempt at the jump. Kwan made one last try, but could only do a double, and the frustration was clear on her face.

More telling was her demeanor. With coach Rafael Arutunian still in transit, U.S. team leader Roger Glenn held her hand several times to comfort her. She had to wipe her eyes several times, and she left the practice 15 minutes before it ended -- an early exit for a woman who is meticulous about preparation.

She got treatment in the afternoon, but by evening she knew something was terribly wrong.

"It's physical pain that's keeping me from performing and skating," she said. "But it's also emotional pain as well because I had to make this tough decision."

That was clear with one look at her Sunday. Dressed in black, her eyes swollen, she had none of the sparkle the world has come to know. And though she tried to smile bravely, pain was etched across her face.

"It's always been a dream to win the Olympics and it's always an honor to represent your country," said Kwan, whose eyes filled with tears with every word she spoke. "My parents are here ... and they always want me to be happy, for their baby to win the gold and make my dreams come true.

"I have no regrets," she added, pausing to compose herself. "I tried my hardest. And if I don't win the gold, it's OK. I've had a great career. I've been very lucky. This is a sport, and it's beautiful."

[SouthernHockeyChick]

OK, so, now I'm all crying for Michelle Kwan.

I don't care for her but it's sad to see this happen. I'm glad she did the right thing. And credit to her for doing the right thing. I can't imagine how hard it was.

Kwan drops out of Turin Olympics with groin injury; Hughes named as replacement

By NANCY ARMOUR, AP National Writer

TURIN, Italy (AP) -- Michelle Kwan's decade-long quest for Olympic gold came to a sorrowful end Sunday when she withdrew because of an injury, taking the biggest name out of the Turin Games.

Kwan cut short her first practice of the games the day before after straining a groin muscle, and the injury worsened as the day wore on. She withdrew after Dr. Jim Moeller evaluated her early Sunday morning and recommended she not continue.

"I wish I was here in better circumstances," Kwan said Sunday morning, her voice flat and her eyes puffy. "When I first put in my petition, I said I believed I'd be 100 percent by time the Olympics came around. But yesterday, after going on ice and feeling stiff ... I don't think that I can be 100 percent.

"I respect the Olympics too much to compete and I don't feel I can be at my best."

Emily Hughes was chosen by the U.S. Olympic Committee as Kwan's replacement.

Kwan has been the face of figure skating for a decade, and she owned the spotlight at these games -- despite being here for only four days. Her withdrawal is a loss for everyone, USOC chairman Peter Ueberroth said.

"Michelle Kwan means more to the United States Olympic Committee than maybe any athlete that's ever performed for the U.S. Olympic Committee," Ueberroth said. "She's been a leader, she's been gracious, she's somebody that cares for so many youngsters that are training in our country.

"She's a real loss to all of the United States Olympic Committee and to the United States of America, and I think to the world. She's made a courageous decision."

Olympic officials wasted little time approving the petition to put Hughes on the team. The 17-year-old, younger sister of 2002 Olympic champion Sarah Hughes, was third at last month's national championships.

She said in a Saturday interview with WNBC-TV in New York that she would be ready to travel to Turin if needed.

"Just point me in the direction and I'm there," Hughes said.

But that could be a challenge: Blizzard warnings were posted for the New York City area, where she lives, and dozens of flights were canceled at the city's three major airports.

When Hughes gets here, she'll join Sasha Cohen and Kimmie Meissner on the U.S. team. The women's competition begins Feb. 21.

Kwan said she would return to the United States so as not to be a distraction.

"I'm a little bit shocked," Cohen said. "I know how tough it is to come back from an injury and get yourself together. It's great she tried, but things don't always work out."

Kwan missed last month's U.S. nationals with a groin injury, and needed a medical exemption to join the Turin team. She was evaluated several times by U.S. Figure Skating doctors before she arrived in Turin, and they declared her fit to skate.

But she said she pulled the groin when she tried a triple flip Saturday, and the injury worsened throughout the day. After examining her, Moeller said Sunday he does not believe the current injury is related to the groin problem Kwan had during the national championships.

"She was cleared medically and told she had a complete recovery from the prior injuries," Moeller said. "Based on my assessment at this moment, I would have to say it's an acute new injury."

This was Kwan's last gasp for Olympic gold. Though she's defined the sport for the past decade, winning five world and nine U.S. titles, she came up heartbreakingly short at the Olympics. The favorite in both Nagano and Salt Lake City, she settled for silver in 1998 and a bronze in 2002.

Now 25, she hung around the past four years for one more shot at gold. But her hopes faded fast.

She missed the Grand Prix season with a hip injury, then missed the nationals with the groin injury. She looked sharp during a Jan. 27 monitoring session that solidified her spot on the team, doing back-to-back run-throughs of her long and short programs.

But she said the long plane ride to Italy, followed by marching in the opening ceremony, took a toll. By the time she returned to the athletes' village, she was starting to hurt.

When she woke up Saturday morning, it wasn't any better.

"It's an honor to represent your country. I didn't think twice about not going to the opening ceremony, or not going to practice. I have to get my legs under me," she said Sunday. "When I felt stiff, it's the Olympics, you've got to push. Unfortunately, it happened."

She didn't do her first jump, a smooth triple toe loop, until almost 14 minutes into the workout. She did a single flip, landed on two feet on her first triple flip, and fell hard on her next attempt at the jump. Kwan made one last try, but could only do a double, and the frustration was clear on her face.

More telling was her demeanor. With coach Rafael Arutunian still in transit, U.S. team leader Roger Glenn held her hand several times to comfort her. She had to wipe her eyes several times, and she left the practice 15 minutes before it ended -- an early exit for a woman who is meticulous about preparation.

She got treatment in the afternoon, but by evening she knew something was terribly wrong.

"It's physical pain that's keeping me from performing and skating," she said. "But it's also emotional pain as well because I had to make this tough decision."

That was clear with one look at her Sunday. Dressed in black, her eyes swollen, she had none of the sparkle the world has come to know. And though she tried to smile bravely, pain was etched across her face.

"It's always been a dream to win the Olympics and it's always an honor to represent your country," said Kwan, whose eyes filled with tears with every word she spoke. "My parents are here ... and they always want me to be happy, for their baby to win the gold and make my dreams come true.

"I have no regrets," she added, pausing to compose herself. "I tried my hardest. And if I don't win the gold, it's OK. I've had a great career. I've been very lucky. This is a sport, and it's beautiful."

[SouthernHockeyChick]

OK, so, now I'm all crying for Michelle Kwan.

I don't care for her but it's sad to see this happen. I'm glad she did the right thing. And credit to her for doing the right thing. I can't imagine how hard it was.

Kwan drops out of Turin Olympics with groin injury; Hughes named as replacement

By NANCY ARMOUR, AP National Writer

TURIN, Italy (AP) -- Michelle Kwan's decade-long quest for Olympic gold came to a sorrowful end Sunday when she withdrew because of an injury, taking the biggest name out of the Turin Games.

Kwan cut short her first practice of the games the day before after straining a groin muscle, and the injury worsened as the day wore on. She withdrew after Dr. Jim Moeller evaluated her early Sunday morning and recommended she not continue.

"I wish I was here in better circumstances," Kwan said Sunday morning, her voice flat and her eyes puffy. "When I first put in my petition, I said I believed I'd be 100 percent by time the Olympics came around. But yesterday, after going on ice and feeling stiff ... I don't think that I can be 100 percent.

"I respect the Olympics too much to compete and I don't feel I can be at my best."

Emily Hughes was chosen by the U.S. Olympic Committee as Kwan's replacement.

Kwan has been the face of figure skating for a decade, and she owned the spotlight at these games -- despite being here for only four days. Her withdrawal is a loss for everyone, USOC chairman Peter Ueberroth said.

"Michelle Kwan means more to the United States Olympic Committee than maybe any athlete that's ever performed for the U.S. Olympic Committee," Ueberroth said. "She's been a leader, she's been gracious, she's somebody that cares for so many youngsters that are training in our country.

"She's a real loss to all of the United States Olympic Committee and to the United States of America, and I think to the world. She's made a courageous decision."

Olympic officials wasted little time approving the petition to put Hughes on the team. The 17-year-old, younger sister of 2002 Olympic champion Sarah Hughes, was third at last month's national championships.

She said in a Saturday interview with WNBC-TV in New York that she would be ready to travel to Turin if needed.

"Just point me in the direction and I'm there," Hughes said.

But that could be a challenge: Blizzard warnings were posted for the New York City area, where she lives, and dozens of flights were canceled at the city's three major airports.

When Hughes gets here, she'll join Sasha Cohen and Kimmie Meissner on the U.S. team. The women's competition begins Feb. 21.

Kwan said she would return to the United States so as not to be a distraction.

"I'm a little bit shocked," Cohen said. "I know how tough it is to come back from an injury and get yourself together. It's great she tried, but things don't always work out."

Kwan missed last month's U.S. nationals with a groin injury, and needed a medical exemption to join the Turin team. She was evaluated several times by U.S. Figure Skating doctors before she arrived in Turin, and they declared her fit to skate.

But she said she pulled the groin when she tried a triple flip Saturday, and the injury worsened throughout the day. After examining her, Moeller said Sunday he does not believe the current injury is related to the groin problem Kwan had during the national championships.

"She was cleared medically and told she had a complete recovery from the prior injuries," Moeller said. "Based on my assessment at this moment, I would have to say it's an acute new injury."

This was Kwan's last gasp for Olympic gold. Though she's defined the sport for the past decade, winning five world and nine U.S. titles, she came up heartbreakingly short at the Olympics. The favorite in both Nagano and Salt Lake City, she settled for silver in 1998 and a bronze in 2002.

Now 25, she hung around the past four years for one more shot at gold. But her hopes faded fast.

She missed the Grand Prix season with a hip injury, then missed the nationals with the groin injury. She looked sharp during a Jan. 27 monitoring session that solidified her spot on the team, doing back-to-back run-throughs of her long and short programs.

But she said the long plane ride to Italy, followed by marching in the opening ceremony, took a toll. By the time she returned to the athletes' village, she was starting to hurt.

When she woke up Saturday morning, it wasn't any better.

"It's an honor to represent your country. I didn't think twice about not going to the opening ceremony, or not going to practice. I have to get my legs under me," she said Sunday. "When I felt stiff, it's the Olympics, you've got to push. Unfortunately, it happened."

She didn't do her first jump, a smooth triple toe loop, until almost 14 minutes into the workout. She did a single flip, landed on two feet on her first triple flip, and fell hard on her next attempt at the jump. Kwan made one last try, but could only do a double, and the frustration was clear on her face.

More telling was her demeanor. With coach Rafael Arutunian still in transit, U.S. team leader Roger Glenn held her hand several times to comfort her. She had to wipe her eyes several times, and she left the practice 15 minutes before it ended -- an early exit for a woman who is meticulous about preparation.

She got treatment in the afternoon, but by evening she knew something was terribly wrong.

"It's physical pain that's keeping me from performing and skating," she said. "But it's also emotional pain as well because I had to make this tough decision."

That was clear with one look at her Sunday. Dressed in black, her eyes swollen, she had none of the sparkle the world has come to know. And though she tried to smile bravely, pain was etched across her face.

"It's always been a dream to win the Olympics and it's always an honor to represent your country," said Kwan, whose eyes filled with tears with every word she spoke. "My parents are here ... and they always want me to be happy, for their baby to win the gold and make my dreams come true.

"I have no regrets," she added, pausing to compose herself. "I tried my hardest. And if I don't win the gold, it's OK. I've had a great career. I've been very lucky. This is a sport, and it's beautiful."

[SouthernHockeyChick]

OK, so, now I'm all crying for Michelle Kwan.

I don't care for her but it's sad to see this happen. I'm glad she did the right thing. And credit to her for doing the right thing. I can't imagine how hard it was.

Kwan drops out of Turin Olympics with groin injury; Hughes named as replacement

By NANCY ARMOUR, AP National Writer

TURIN, Italy (AP) -- Michelle Kwan's decade-long quest for Olympic gold came to a sorrowful end Sunday when she withdrew because of an injury, taking the biggest name out of the Turin Games.

Kwan cut short her first practice of the games the day before after straining a groin muscle, and the injury worsened as the day wore on. She withdrew after Dr. Jim Moeller evaluated her early Sunday morning and recommended she not continue.

"I wish I was here in better circumstances," Kwan said Sunday morning, her voice flat and her eyes puffy. "When I first put in my petition, I said I believed I'd be 100 percent by time the Olympics came around. But yesterday, after going on ice and feeling stiff ... I don't think that I can be 100 percent.

"I respect the Olympics too much to compete and I don't feel I can be at my best."

Emily Hughes was chosen by the U.S. Olympic Committee as Kwan's replacement.

Kwan has been the face of figure skating for a decade, and she owned the spotlight at these games -- despite being here for only four days. Her withdrawal is a loss for everyone, USOC chairman Peter Ueberroth said.

"Michelle Kwan means more to the United States Olympic Committee than maybe any athlete that's ever performed for the U.S. Olympic Committee," Ueberroth said. "She's been a leader, she's been gracious, she's somebody that cares for so many youngsters that are training in our country.

"She's a real loss to all of the United States Olympic Committee and to the United States of America, and I think to the world. She's made a courageous decision."

Olympic officials wasted little time approving the petition to put Hughes on the team. The 17-year-old, younger sister of 2002 Olympic champion Sarah Hughes, was third at last month's national championships.

She said in a Saturday interview with WNBC-TV in New York that she would be ready to travel to Turin if needed.

"Just point me in the direction and I'm there," Hughes said.

But that could be a challenge: Blizzard warnings were posted for the New York City area, where she lives, and dozens of flights were canceled at the city's three major airports.

When Hughes gets here, she'll join Sasha Cohen and Kimmie Meissner on the U.S. team. The women's competition begins Feb. 21.

Kwan said she would return to the United States so as not to be a distraction.

"I'm a little bit shocked," Cohen said. "I know how tough it is to come back from an injury and get yourself together. It's great she tried, but things don't always work out."

Kwan missed last month's U.S. nationals with a groin injury, and needed a medical exemption to join the Turin team. She was evaluated several times by U.S. Figure Skating doctors before she arrived in Turin, and they declared her fit to skate.

But she said she pulled the groin when she tried a triple flip Saturday, and the injury worsened throughout the day. After examining her, Moeller said Sunday he does not believe the current injury is related to the groin problem Kwan had during the national championships.

"She was cleared medically and told she had a complete recovery from the prior injuries," Moeller said. "Based on my assessment at this moment, I would have to say it's an acute new injury."

This was Kwan's last gasp for Olympic gold. Though she's defined the sport for the past decade, winning five world and nine U.S. titles, she came up heartbreakingly short at the Olympics. The favorite in both Nagano and Salt Lake City, she settled for silver in 1998 and a bronze in 2002.

Now 25, she hung around the past four years for one more shot at gold. But her hopes faded fast.

She missed the Grand Prix season with a hip injury, then missed the nationals with the groin injury. She looked sharp during a Jan. 27 monitoring session that solidified her spot on the team, doing back-to-back run-throughs of her long and short programs.

But she said the long plane ride to Italy, followed by marching in the opening ceremony, took a toll. By the time she returned to the athletes' village, she was starting to hurt.

When she woke up Saturday morning, it wasn't any better.

"It's an honor to represent your country. I didn't think twice about not going to the opening ceremony, or not going to practice. I have to get my legs under me," she said Sunday. "When I felt stiff, it's the Olympics, you've got to push. Unfortunately, it happened."

She didn't do her first jump, a smooth triple toe loop, until almost 14 minutes into the workout. She did a single flip, landed on two feet on her first triple flip, and fell hard on her next attempt at the jump. Kwan made one last try, but could only do a double, and the frustration was clear on her face.

More telling was her demeanor. With coach Rafael Arutunian still in transit, U.S. team leader Roger Glenn held her hand several times to comfort her. She had to wipe her eyes several times, and she left the practice 15 minutes before it ended -- an early exit for a woman who is meticulous about preparation.

She got treatment in the afternoon, but by evening she knew something was terribly wrong.

"It's physical pain that's keeping me from performing and skating," she said. "But it's also emotional pain as well because I had to make this tough decision."

That was clear with one look at her Sunday. Dressed in black, her eyes swollen, she had none of the sparkle the world has come to know. And though she tried to smile bravely, pain was etched across her face.

"It's always been a dream to win the Olympics and it's always an honor to represent your country," said Kwan, whose eyes filled with tears with every word she spoke. "My parents are here ... and they always want me to be happy, for their baby to win the gold and make my dreams come true.

"I have no regrets," she added, pausing to compose herself. "I tried my hardest. And if I don't win the gold, it's OK. I've had a great career. I've been very lucky. This is a sport, and it's beautiful."

[Canesluver]

Damn, you, SHC!! I was just about to post this! I'm never first at anything!! :lol:

I just read the headline out-loud to Mr CL, and all he said is, "Good!"

Heartless *******!! :lol:

[Canesluver]

Damn, you, SHC!! I was just about to post this! I'm never first at anything!! :lol:

I just read the headline out-loud to Mr CL, and all he said is, "Good!"

Heartless *******!! :lol:

[Canesluver]

Damn, you, SHC!! I was just about to post this! I'm never first at anything!! :lol:

I just read the headline out-loud to Mr CL, and all he said is, "Good!"

Heartless *******!! :lol:

[Canesluver]

Damn, you, SHC!! I was just about to post this! I'm never first at anything!! :lol:

I just read the headline out-loud to Mr CL, and all he said is, "Good!"

Heartless *******!! :lol:

[Canesluver]

Damn, you, SHC!! I was just about to post this! I'm never first at anything!! :lol:

I just read the headline out-loud to Mr CL, and all he said is, "Good!"

Heartless *******!! :lol:

[Canesluver]

Damn, you, SHC!! I was just about to post this! I'm never first at anything!! :lol:

I just read the headline out-loud to Mr CL, and all he said is, "Good!"

Heartless *******!! :lol:

[Canesluver]

Damn, you, SHC!! I was just about to post this! I'm never first at anything!! :lol:

I just read the headline out-loud to Mr CL, and all he said is, "Good!"

Heartless *******!! :lol:

[apolinar]

Yeah, I felt bad after Scott hamilton talked to her and her tears started flowing on tv. You could see how much hard work she put into it. Hard to be sad for her, and Happy for Emily Hughes at the same time, but Kwan went out the right way, giving Emily time to get ready for competition. KWan did it right, and her professional career has been salvaged in the public eye.

[apolinar]

Yeah, I felt bad after Scott hamilton talked to her and her tears started flowing on tv. You could see how much hard work she put into it. Hard to be sad for her, and Happy for Emily Hughes at the same time, but Kwan went out the right way, giving Emily time to get ready for competition. KWan did it right, and her professional career has been salvaged in the public eye.

[apolinar]

Yeah, I felt bad after Scott hamilton talked to her and her tears started flowing on tv. You could see how much hard work she put into it. Hard to be sad for her, and Happy for Emily Hughes at the same time, but Kwan went out the right way, giving Emily time to get ready for competition. KWan did it right, and her professional career has been salvaged in the public eye.

[apolinar]

Yeah, I felt bad after Scott hamilton talked to her and her tears started flowing on tv. You could see how much hard work she put into it. Hard to be sad for her, and Happy for Emily Hughes at the same time, but Kwan went out the right way, giving Emily time to get ready for competition. KWan did it right, and her professional career has been salvaged in the public eye.

[apolinar]

Yeah, I felt bad after Scott hamilton talked to her and her tears started flowing on tv. You could see how much hard work she put into it. Hard to be sad for her, and Happy for Emily Hughes at the same time, but Kwan went out the right way, giving Emily time to get ready for competition. KWan did it right, and her professional career has been salvaged in the public eye.

[apolinar]

Yeah, I felt bad after Scott hamilton talked to her and her tears started flowing on tv. You could see how much hard work she put into it. Hard to be sad for her, and Happy for Emily Hughes at the same time, but Kwan went out the right way, giving Emily time to get ready for competition. KWan did it right, and her professional career has been salvaged in the public eye.

[apolinar]

Yeah, I felt bad after Scott hamilton talked to her and her tears started flowing on tv. You could see how much hard work she put into it. Hard to be sad for her, and Happy for Emily Hughes at the same time, but Kwan went out the right way, giving Emily time to get ready for competition. KWan did it right, and her professional career has been salvaged in the public eye.

[Shell]

I was excited about the new scoring system and silly me hoped it would take a lot of the subjectiveness out of the judging. I am sorely disappointed. You have one couple issued 1 point for making Olympic History and doing somethat that had never been done. Meanwhile, the Chinese man just threw his partner across the ice injuring her in an ugly fall. They stopped the program for 5 minutes and then started over where they left off. The bad wipeout was only a 1 point deduction and they placed second. That is a travesty in my opinion. I would much rather see someone who did not fall down get the medal.

Disclaimer: I do think it was brave and admirable that they continued their program, but they do not deserve a medal IMO.

[Shell]

I was excited about the new scoring system and silly me hoped it would take a lot of the subjectiveness out of the judging. I am sorely disappointed. You have one couple issued 1 point for making Olympic History and doing somethat that had never been done. Meanwhile, the Chinese man just threw his partner across the ice injuring her in an ugly fall. They stopped the program for 5 minutes and then started over where they left off. The bad wipeout was only a 1 point deduction and they placed second. That is a travesty in my opinion. I would much rather see someone who did not fall down get the medal.

Disclaimer: I do think it was brave and admirable that they continued their program, but they do not deserve a medal IMO.

[Shell]

I was excited about the new scoring system and silly me hoped it would take a lot of the subjectiveness out of the judging. I am sorely disappointed. You have one couple issued 1 point for making Olympic History and doing somethat that had never been done. Meanwhile, the Chinese man just threw his partner across the ice injuring her in an ugly fall. They stopped the program for 5 minutes and then started over where they left off. The bad wipeout was only a 1 point deduction and they placed second. That is a travesty in my opinion. I would much rather see someone who did not fall down get the medal.

Disclaimer: I do think it was brave and admirable that they continued their program, but they do not deserve a medal IMO.

[Shell]

I was excited about the new scoring system and silly me hoped it would take a lot of the subjectiveness out of the judging. I am sorely disappointed. You have one couple issued 1 point for making Olympic History and doing somethat that had never been done. Meanwhile, the Chinese man just threw his partner across the ice injuring her in an ugly fall. They stopped the program for 5 minutes and then started over where they left off. The bad wipeout was only a 1 point deduction and they placed second. That is a travesty in my opinion. I would much rather see someone who did not fall down get the medal.

Disclaimer: I do think it was brave and admirable that they continued their program, but they do not deserve a medal IMO.

[Shell]

I was excited about the new scoring system and silly me hoped it would take a lot of the subjectiveness out of the judging. I am sorely disappointed. You have one couple issued 1 point for making Olympic History and doing somethat that had never been done. Meanwhile, the Chinese man just threw his partner across the ice injuring her in an ugly fall. They stopped the program for 5 minutes and then started over where they left off. The bad wipeout was only a 1 point deduction and they placed second. That is a travesty in my opinion. I would much rather see someone who did not fall down get the medal.

Disclaimer: I do think it was brave and admirable that they continued their program, but they do not deserve a medal IMO.

[Shell]

I was excited about the new scoring system and silly me hoped it would take a lot of the subjectiveness out of the judging. I am sorely disappointed. You have one couple issued 1 point for making Olympic History and doing somethat that had never been done. Meanwhile, the Chinese man just threw his partner across the ice injuring her in an ugly fall. They stopped the program for 5 minutes and then started over where they left off. The bad wipeout was only a 1 point deduction and they placed second. That is a travesty in my opinion. I would much rather see someone who did not fall down get the medal.

Disclaimer: I do think it was brave and admirable that they continued their program, but they do not deserve a medal IMO.

[Shell]

I was excited about the new scoring system and silly me hoped it would take a lot of the subjectiveness out of the judging. I am sorely disappointed. You have one couple issued 1 point for making Olympic History and doing somethat that had never been done. Meanwhile, the Chinese man just threw his partner across the ice injuring her in an ugly fall. They stopped the program for 5 minutes and then started over where they left off. The bad wipeout was only a 1 point deduction and they placed second. That is a travesty in my opinion. I would much rather see someone who did not fall down get the medal.

Disclaimer: I do think it was brave and admirable that they continued their program, but they do not deserve a medal IMO.

[talkingcanes]

I was excited about the new scoring system and silly me hoped it would take a lot of the subjectiveness out of the judging. I am sorely disappointed. You have one couple issued 1 point for making Olympic History and doing somethat that had never been done. Meanwhile, the Chinese man just threw his partner across the ice injuring her in an ugly fall. They stopped the program for 5 minutes and then started over where they left off. The bad wipeout was only a 1 point deduction and they placed second. That is a travesty in my opinion. I would much rather see someone who did not fall down get the medal.

Disclaimer: I do think it was brave and admirable that they continued their program, but they do not deserve a medal IMO.

couldn't agree more, Shell. it's one of the reasons I have so little interest in the Olympics this time around. whatever it was about the Olympics that I used to enjoy so much is now largely missing IMO.

[talkingcanes]

I was excited about the new scoring system and silly me hoped it would take a lot of the subjectiveness out of the judging. I am sorely disappointed. You have one couple issued 1 point for making Olympic History and doing somethat that had never been done. Meanwhile, the Chinese man just threw his partner across the ice injuring her in an ugly fall. They stopped the program for 5 minutes and then started over where they left off. The bad wipeout was only a 1 point deduction and they placed second. That is a travesty in my opinion. I would much rather see someone who did not fall down get the medal.

Disclaimer: I do think it was brave and admirable that they continued their program, but they do not deserve a medal IMO.

couldn't agree more, Shell. it's one of the reasons I have so little interest in the Olympics this time around. whatever it was about the Olympics that I used to enjoy so much is now largely missing IMO.

[talkingcanes]

I was excited about the new scoring system and silly me hoped it would take a lot of the subjectiveness out of the judging. I am sorely disappointed. You have one couple issued 1 point for making Olympic History and doing somethat that had never been done. Meanwhile, the Chinese man just threw his partner across the ice injuring her in an ugly fall. They stopped the program for 5 minutes and then started over where they left off. The bad wipeout was only a 1 point deduction and they placed second. That is a travesty in my opinion. I would much rather see someone who did not fall down get the medal.

Disclaimer: I do think it was brave and admirable that they continued their program, but they do not deserve a medal IMO.

couldn't agree more, Shell. it's one of the reasons I have so little interest in the Olympics this time around. whatever it was about the Olympics that I used to enjoy so much is now largely missing IMO.

[talkingcanes]

I was excited about the new scoring system and silly me hoped it would take a lot of the subjectiveness out of the judging. I am sorely disappointed. You have one couple issued 1 point for making Olympic History and doing somethat that had never been done. Meanwhile, the Chinese man just threw his partner across the ice injuring her in an ugly fall. They stopped the program for 5 minutes and then started over where they left off. The bad wipeout was only a 1 point deduction and they placed second. That is a travesty in my opinion. I would much rather see someone who did not fall down get the medal.

Disclaimer: I do think it was brave and admirable that they continued their program, but they do not deserve a medal IMO.

couldn't agree more, Shell. it's one of the reasons I have so little interest in the Olympics this time around. whatever it was about the Olympics that I used to enjoy so much is now largely missing IMO.

[talkingcanes]

I was excited about the new scoring system and silly me hoped it would take a lot of the subjectiveness out of the judging. I am sorely disappointed. You have one couple issued 1 point for making Olympic History and doing somethat that had never been done. Meanwhile, the Chinese man just threw his partner across the ice injuring her in an ugly fall. They stopped the program for 5 minutes and then started over where they left off. The bad wipeout was only a 1 point deduction and they placed second. That is a travesty in my opinion. I would much rather see someone who did not fall down get the medal.

Disclaimer: I do think it was brave and admirable that they continued their program, but they do not deserve a medal IMO.

couldn't agree more, Shell. it's one of the reasons I have so little interest in the Olympics this time around. whatever it was about the Olympics that I used to enjoy so much is now largely missing IMO.

[talkingcanes]

I was excited about the new scoring system and silly me hoped it would take a lot of the subjectiveness out of the judging. I am sorely disappointed. You have one couple issued 1 point for making Olympic History and doing somethat that had never been done. Meanwhile, the Chinese man just threw his partner across the ice injuring her in an ugly fall. They stopped the program for 5 minutes and then started over where they left off. The bad wipeout was only a 1 point deduction and they placed second. That is a travesty in my opinion. I would much rather see someone who did not fall down get the medal.

Disclaimer: I do think it was brave and admirable that they continued their program, but they do not deserve a medal IMO.

couldn't agree more, Shell. it's one of the reasons I have so little interest in the Olympics this time around. whatever it was about the Olympics that I used to enjoy so much is now largely missing IMO.

[talkingcanes]

I was excited about the new scoring system and silly me hoped it would take a lot of the subjectiveness out of the judging. I am sorely disappointed. You have one couple issued 1 point for making Olympic History and doing somethat that had never been done. Meanwhile, the Chinese man just threw his partner across the ice injuring her in an ugly fall. They stopped the program for 5 minutes and then started over where they left off. The bad wipeout was only a 1 point deduction and they placed second. That is a travesty in my opinion. I would much rather see someone who did not fall down get the medal.

Disclaimer: I do think it was brave and admirable that they continued their program, but they do not deserve a medal IMO.

couldn't agree more, Shell. it's one of the reasons I have so little interest in the Olympics this time around. whatever it was about the Olympics that I used to enjoy so much is now largely missing IMO.

[SoCalcaniac]

Oh wow- I watched that last night, and my eyes got heavy and fell asleep, thinking they were toast for any kind of medal! Holy cow. I'm kinda speechless- I didnt' realize the 'new system' would be so rewarding. Oy vey. But the Russian couple won eh? Please say they did, it was really beautiful..... ;)

[SoCalcaniac]

Oh wow- I watched that last night, and my eyes got heavy and fell asleep, thinking they were toast for any kind of medal! Holy cow. I'm kinda speechless- I didnt' realize the 'new system' would be so rewarding. Oy vey. But the Russian couple won eh? Please say they did, it was really beautiful..... ;)

[SoCalcaniac]

Oh wow- I watched that last night, and my eyes got heavy and fell asleep, thinking they were toast for any kind of medal! Holy cow. I'm kinda speechless- I didnt' realize the 'new system' would be so rewarding. Oy vey. But the Russian couple won eh? Please say they did, it was really beautiful..... ;)

[SoCalcaniac]

Oh wow- I watched that last night, and my eyes got heavy and fell asleep, thinking they were toast for any kind of medal! Holy cow. I'm kinda speechless- I didnt' realize the 'new system' would be so rewarding. Oy vey. But the Russian couple won eh? Please say they did, it was really beautiful..... ;)

[SoCalcaniac]

Oh wow- I watched that last night, and my eyes got heavy and fell asleep, thinking they were toast for any kind of medal! Holy cow. I'm kinda speechless- I didnt' realize the 'new system' would be so rewarding. Oy vey. But the Russian couple won eh? Please say they did, it was really beautiful..... ;)

[SoCalcaniac]

Oh wow- I watched that last night, and my eyes got heavy and fell asleep, thinking they were toast for any kind of medal! Holy cow. I'm kinda speechless- I didnt' realize the 'new system' would be so rewarding. Oy vey. But the Russian couple won eh? Please say they did, it was really beautiful..... ;)

[SoCalcaniac]

Oh wow- I watched that last night, and my eyes got heavy and fell asleep, thinking they were toast for any kind of medal! Holy cow. I'm kinda speechless- I didnt' realize the 'new system' would be so rewarding. Oy vey. But the Russian couple won eh? Please say they did, it was really beautiful..... ;)

[talkingcanes]

Oh wow- I watched that last night, and my eyes got heavy and fell asleep, thinking they were toast for any kind of medal! Holy cow. I'm kinda speechless- I didnt' realize the 'new system' would be so rewarding. Oy vey. But the Russian couple won eh? Please say they did, it was really beautiful..... ;)

the Russian couple did win. if they're giving points for bravery, then the Chinese man who had major surgery on his ruptured achilles tendon 6 months ago should have been a shoe in for the gold, with or without a partner! they showed that incision line in some report they were doing and ouch :eek2: can't even imagine how he did it or why he wanted to, but then again that may be why I've never been very competitive :beatup:

[talkingcanes]

Oh wow- I watched that last night, and my eyes got heavy and fell asleep, thinking they were toast for any kind of medal! Holy cow. I'm kinda speechless- I didnt' realize the 'new system' would be so rewarding. Oy vey. But the Russian couple won eh? Please say they did, it was really beautiful..... ;)

the Russian couple did win. if they're giving points for bravery, then the Chinese man who had major surgery on his ruptured achilles tendon 6 months ago should have been a shoe in for the gold, with or without a partner! they showed that incision line in some report they were doing and ouch :eek2: can't even imagine how he did it or why he wanted to, but then again that may be why I've never been very competitive :beatup:

[talkingcanes]

Oh wow- I watched that last night, and my eyes got heavy and fell asleep, thinking they were toast for any kind of medal! Holy cow. I'm kinda speechless- I didnt' realize the 'new system' would be so rewarding. Oy vey. But the Russian couple won eh? Please say they did, it was really beautiful..... ;)

the Russian couple did win. if they're giving points for bravery, then the Chinese man who had major surgery on his ruptured achilles tendon 6 months ago should have been a shoe in for the gold, with or without a partner! they showed that incision line in some report they were doing and ouch :eek2: can't even imagine how he did it or why he wanted to, but then again that may be why I've never been very competitive :beatup:

[talkingcanes]

Oh wow- I watched that last night, and my eyes got heavy and fell asleep, thinking they were toast for any kind of medal! Holy cow. I'm kinda speechless- I didnt' realize the 'new system' would be so rewarding. Oy vey. But the Russian couple won eh? Please say they did, it was really beautiful..... ;)

the Russian couple did win. if they're giving points for bravery, then the Chinese man who had major surgery on his ruptured achilles tendon 6 months ago should have been a shoe in for the gold, with or without a partner! they showed that incision line in some report they were doing and ouch :eek2: can't even imagine how he did it or why he wanted to, but then again that may be why I've never been very competitive :beatup:

[talkingcanes]

Oh wow- I watched that last night, and my eyes got heavy and fell asleep, thinking they were toast for any kind of medal! Holy cow. I'm kinda speechless- I didnt' realize the 'new system' would be so rewarding. Oy vey. But the Russian couple won eh? Please say they did, it was really beautiful..... ;)

the Russian couple did win. if they're giving points for bravery, then the Chinese man who had major surgery on his ruptured achilles tendon 6 months ago should have been a shoe in for the gold, with or without a partner! they showed that incision line in some report they were doing and ouch :eek2: can't even imagine how he did it or why he wanted to, but then again that may be why I've never been very competitive :beatup:

[talkingcanes]

Oh wow- I watched that last night, and my eyes got heavy and fell asleep, thinking they were toast for any kind of medal! Holy cow. I'm kinda speechless- I didnt' realize the 'new system' would be so rewarding. Oy vey. But the Russian couple won eh? Please say they did, it was really beautiful..... ;)

the Russian couple did win. if they're giving points for bravery, then the Chinese man who had major surgery on his ruptured achilles tendon 6 months ago should have been a shoe in for the gold, with or without a partner! they showed that incision line in some report they were doing and ouch :eek2: can't even imagine how he did it or why he wanted to, but then again that may be why I've never been very competitive :beatup:

[talkingcanes]

Oh wow- I watched that last night, and my eyes got heavy and fell asleep, thinking they were toast for any kind of medal! Holy cow. I'm kinda speechless- I didnt' realize the 'new system' would be so rewarding. Oy vey. But the Russian couple won eh? Please say they did, it was really beautiful..... ;)

the Russian couple did win. if they're giving points for bravery, then the Chinese man who had major surgery on his ruptured achilles tendon 6 months ago should have been a shoe in for the gold, with or without a partner! they showed that incision line in some report they were doing and ouch :eek2: can't even imagine how he did it or why he wanted to, but then again that may be why I've never been very competitive :beatup:

[Guyute]

utter travesty. a 1 point deduction for a total wipe, a 5 minute break, and a restart? u.n.r.e.a.l.

people wonder why I like curling so much... for one, there's no arbitrary juding!!! :)

[Guyute]

utter travesty. a 1 point deduction for a total wipe, a 5 minute break, and a restart? u.n.r.e.a.l.

people wonder why I like curling so much... for one, there's no arbitrary juding!!! :)

[Guyute]

utter travesty. a 1 point deduction for a total wipe, a 5 minute break, and a restart? u.n.r.e.a.l.

people wonder why I like curling so much... for one, there's no arbitrary juding!!! :)

[Guyute]

utter travesty. a 1 point deduction for a total wipe, a 5 minute break, and a restart? u.n.r.e.a.l.

people wonder why I like curling so much... for one, there's no arbitrary juding!!! :)

[Guyute]

utter travesty. a 1 point deduction for a total wipe, a 5 minute break, and a restart? u.n.r.e.a.l.

people wonder why I like curling so much... for one, there's no arbitrary juding!!! :)

[Guyute]

utter travesty. a 1 point deduction for a total wipe, a 5 minute break, and a restart? u.n.r.e.a.l.

people wonder why I like curling so much... for one, there's no arbitrary juding!!! :)

[Guyute]

utter travesty. a 1 point deduction for a total wipe, a 5 minute break, and a restart? u.n.r.e.a.l.

people wonder why I like curling so much... for one, there's no arbitrary juding!!! :)

[IceSaber]

I thought I saw them go over that point system and it was -3 for a fall.

[IceSaber]

I thought I saw them go over that point system and it was -3 for a fall.

[IceSaber]

I thought I saw them go over that point system and it was -3 for a fall.

[IceSaber]

I thought I saw them go over that point system and it was -3 for a fall.

[IceSaber]

I thought I saw them go over that point system and it was -3 for a fall.

[IceSaber]

I thought I saw them go over that point system and it was -3 for a fall.

[IceSaber]

I thought I saw them go over that point system and it was -3 for a fall.

[Guyute]

didn't see them explain how the system is supposed to work...

but damn sure last night, that fall only costed them a 1pt deduction.

[Guyute]

didn't see them explain how the system is supposed to work...

but damn sure last night, that fall only costed them a 1pt deduction.

[Guyute]

didn't see them explain how the system is supposed to work...

but damn sure last night, that fall only costed them a 1pt deduction.

[Guyute]

didn't see them explain how the system is supposed to work...

but damn sure last night, that fall only costed them a 1pt deduction.

[Guyute]

didn't see them explain how the system is supposed to work...

but damn sure last night, that fall only costed them a 1pt deduction.

[Guyute]

didn't see them explain how the system is supposed to work...

but damn sure last night, that fall only costed them a 1pt deduction.

[Guyute]

didn't see them explain how the system is supposed to work...

but damn sure last night, that fall only costed them a 1pt deduction.

[nccanes]

Here's my 2 cents history of figure skating judging.

The old system was known as ordinals. Basically, it really didn't matter if one judge gave skaters A 5.7/5.7 and another judge gave them a 5.3/5.3, but rather whom they put skaters ahead or behind. Once all the skaters have skated, you see how many times the skater was placed 1st, 2nd, 3rd and the skater with the most 1st is in 1st, and so on.

Now, after the French judge scandal in SLC, they sprang into action to change the judging system in a number of ways - and it definitely has it's critics, for good reason imo.

First off they changed the system to be much more like gymnastics, where points are totaled up for 'degree of difficulty' and such, instead of the ordinal system.

The other change was that the judges scores are now anonymous. They actually have more judges than are actually used to score, so there is supposedly no sure fire way to 'broker a deal' between judges. You don't know if your score is going to count, so it should supposedly disuade the back room negotiations. For each discipline, the computer pick x numbers of judges scores to use (I forget the number).

Of course, it also basically acknowledges that you can't trust your judges to leave bias (or deal making) out of it. Think of the SLC scandal with no way to tie a judge to their score. :crazy:

Figure Skating's biggest criticism is that they basically follow "protocol judging". Meaning that Team A is known to be "better skaters" than team B an C and so on. Thus, in some folks opinions, the Americans got dinged on the short program that included the throw triple axel. They are not 'perceived' to be better than those that finished above them, so even with their big throw, the judges found a way to hold them down over more talented skaters that had more errors.

Crazy sport.

[nccanes]

Here's my 2 cents history of figure skating judging.

The old system was known as ordinals. Basically, it really didn't matter if one judge gave skaters A 5.7/5.7 and another judge gave them a 5.3/5.3, but rather whom they put skaters ahead or behind. Once all the skaters have skated, you see how many times the skater was placed 1st, 2nd, 3rd and the skater with the most 1st is in 1st, and so on.

Now, after the French judge scandal in SLC, they sprang into action to change the judging system in a number of ways - and it definitely has it's critics, for good reason imo.

First off they changed the system to be much more like gymnastics, where points are totaled up for 'degree of difficulty' and such, instead of the ordinal system.

The other change was that the judges scores are now anonymous. They actually have more judges than are actually used to score, so there is supposedly no sure fire way to 'broker a deal' between judges. You don't know if your score is going to count, so it should supposedly disuade the back room negotiations. For each discipline, the computer pick x numbers of judges scores to use (I forget the number).

Of course, it also basically acknowledges that you can't trust your judges to leave bias (or deal making) out of it. Think of the SLC scandal with no way to tie a judge to their score. :crazy:

Figure Skating's biggest criticism is that they basically follow "protocol judging". Meaning that Team A is known to be "better skaters" than team B an C and so on. Thus, in some folks opinions, the Americans got dinged on the short program that included the throw triple axel. They are not 'perceived' to be better than those that finished above them, so even with their big throw, the judges found a way to hold them down over more talented skaters that had more errors.

Crazy sport.

[nccanes]

Here's my 2 cents history of figure skating judging.

The old system was known as ordinals. Basically, it really didn't matter if one judge gave skaters A 5.7/5.7 and another judge gave them a 5.3/5.3, but rather whom they put skaters ahead or behind. Once all the skaters have skated, you see how many times the skater was placed 1st, 2nd, 3rd and the skater with the most 1st is in 1st, and so on.

Now, after the French judge scandal in SLC, they sprang into action to change the judging system in a number of ways - and it definitely has it's critics, for good reason imo.

First off they changed the system to be much more like gymnastics, where points are totaled up for 'degree of difficulty' and such, instead of the ordinal system.

The other change was that the judges scores are now anonymous. They actually have more judges than are actually used to score, so there is supposedly no sure fire way to 'broker a deal' between judges. You don't know if your score is going to count, so it should supposedly disuade the back room negotiations. For each discipline, the computer pick x numbers of judges scores to use (I forget the number).

Of course, it also basically acknowledges that you can't trust your judges to leave bias (or deal making) out of it. Think of the SLC scandal with no way to tie a judge to their score. :crazy:

Figure Skating's biggest criticism is that they basically follow "protocol judging". Meaning that Team A is known to be "better skaters" than team B an C and so on. Thus, in some folks opinions, the Americans got dinged on the short program that included the throw triple axel. They are not 'perceived' to be better than those that finished above them, so even with their big throw, the judges found a way to hold them down over more talented skaters that had more errors.

Crazy sport.

[nccanes]

Here's my 2 cents history of figure skating judging.

The old system was known as ordinals. Basically, it really didn't matter if one judge gave skaters A 5.7/5.7 and another judge gave them a 5.3/5.3, but rather whom they put skaters ahead or behind. Once all the skaters have skated, you see how many times the skater was placed 1st, 2nd, 3rd and the skater with the most 1st is in 1st, and so on.

Now, after the French judge scandal in SLC, they sprang into action to change the judging system in a number of ways - and it definitely has it's critics, for good reason imo.

First off they changed the system to be much more like gymnastics, where points are totaled up for 'degree of difficulty' and such, instead of the ordinal system.

The other change was that the judges scores are now anonymous. They actually have more judges than are actually used to score, so there is supposedly no sure fire way to 'broker a deal' between judges. You don't know if your score is going to count, so it should supposedly disuade the back room negotiations. For each discipline, the computer pick x numbers of judges scores to use (I forget the number).

Of course, it also basically acknowledges that you can't trust your judges to leave bias (or deal making) out of it. Think of the SLC scandal with no way to tie a judge to their score. :crazy:

Figure Skating's biggest criticism is that they basically follow "protocol judging". Meaning that Team A is known to be "better skaters" than team B an C and so on. Thus, in some folks opinions, the Americans got dinged on the short program that included the throw triple axel. They are not 'perceived' to be better than those that finished above them, so even with their big throw, the judges found a way to hold them down over more talented skaters that had more errors.

Crazy sport.

[nccanes]

Here's my 2 cents history of figure skating judging.

The old system was known as ordinals. Basically, it really didn't matter if one judge gave skaters A 5.7/5.7 and another judge gave them a 5.3/5.3, but rather whom they put skaters ahead or behind. Once all the skaters have skated, you see how many times the skater was placed 1st, 2nd, 3rd and the skater with the most 1st is in 1st, and so on.

Now, after the French judge scandal in SLC, they sprang into action to change the judging system in a number of ways - and it definitely has it's critics, for good reason imo.

First off they changed the system to be much more like gymnastics, where points are totaled up for 'degree of difficulty' and such, instead of the ordinal system.

The other change was that the judges scores are now anonymous. They actually have more judges than are actually used to score, so there is supposedly no sure fire way to 'broker a deal' between judges. You don't know if your score is going to count, so it should supposedly disuade the back room negotiations. For each discipline, the computer pick x numbers of judges scores to use (I forget the number).

Of course, it also basically acknowledges that you can't trust your judges to leave bias (or deal making) out of it. Think of the SLC scandal with no way to tie a judge to their score. :crazy:

Figure Skating's biggest criticism is that they basically follow "protocol judging". Meaning that Team A is known to be "better skaters" than team B an C and so on. Thus, in some folks opinions, the Americans got dinged on the short program that included the throw triple axel. They are not 'perceived' to be better than those that finished above them, so even with their big throw, the judges found a way to hold them down over more talented skaters that had more errors.

Crazy sport.

[nccanes]

Here's my 2 cents history of figure skating judging.

The old system was known as ordinals. Basically, it really didn't matter if one judge gave skaters A 5.7/5.7 and another judge gave them a 5.3/5.3, but rather whom they put skaters ahead or behind. Once all the skaters have skated, you see how many times the skater was placed 1st, 2nd, 3rd and the skater with the most 1st is in 1st, and so on.

Now, after the French judge scandal in SLC, they sprang into action to change the judging system in a number of ways - and it definitely has it's critics, for good reason imo.

First off they changed the system to be much more like gymnastics, where points are totaled up for 'degree of difficulty' and such, instead of the ordinal system.

The other change was that the judges scores are now anonymous. They actually have more judges than are actually used to score, so there is supposedly no sure fire way to 'broker a deal' between judges. You don't know if your score is going to count, so it should supposedly disuade the back room negotiations. For each discipline, the computer pick x numbers of judges scores to use (I forget the number).

Of course, it also basically acknowledges that you can't trust your judges to leave bias (or deal making) out of it. Think of the SLC scandal with no way to tie a judge to their score. :crazy:

Figure Skating's biggest criticism is that they basically follow "protocol judging". Meaning that Team A is known to be "better skaters" than team B an C and so on. Thus, in some folks opinions, the Americans got dinged on the short program that included the throw triple axel. They are not 'perceived' to be better than those that finished above them, so even with their big throw, the judges found a way to hold them down over more talented skaters that had more errors.

Crazy sport.

[nccanes]

Here's my 2 cents history of figure skating judging.

The old system was known as ordinals. Basically, it really didn't matter if one judge gave skaters A 5.7/5.7 and another judge gave them a 5.3/5.3, but rather whom they put skaters ahead or behind. Once all the skaters have skated, you see how many times the skater was placed 1st, 2nd, 3rd and the skater with the most 1st is in 1st, and so on.

Now, after the French judge scandal in SLC, they sprang into action to change the judging system in a number of ways - and it definitely has it's critics, for good reason imo.

First off they changed the system to be much more like gymnastics, where points are totaled up for 'degree of difficulty' and such, instead of the ordinal system.

The other change was that the judges scores are now anonymous. They actually have more judges than are actually used to score, so there is supposedly no sure fire way to 'broker a deal' between judges. You don't know if your score is going to count, so it should supposedly disuade the back room negotiations. For each discipline, the computer pick x numbers of judges scores to use (I forget the number).

Of course, it also basically acknowledges that you can't trust your judges to leave bias (or deal making) out of it. Think of the SLC scandal with no way to tie a judge to their score. :crazy:

Figure Skating's biggest criticism is that they basically follow "protocol judging". Meaning that Team A is known to be "better skaters" than team B an C and so on. Thus, in some folks opinions, the Americans got dinged on the short program that included the throw triple axel. They are not 'perceived' to be better than those that finished above them, so even with their big throw, the judges found a way to hold them down over more talented skaters that had more errors.

Crazy sport.

[Canesluver]

NCC-- you closet toe-looper, you!!! Your vast knowledge of figure skating continues to impress me!*

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:

* I will admit, though, to reading My Sergei, Ekaterina Gordeava's book, so I'm a closet toe-looper, too!!!! he,he,he

[Canesluver]

NCC-- you closet toe-looper, you!!! Your vast knowledge of figure skating continues to impress me!*

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:

* I will admit, though, to reading My Sergei, Ekaterina Gordeava's book, so I'm a closet toe-looper, too!!!! he,he,he

[Canesluver]

NCC-- you closet toe-looper, you!!! Your vast knowledge of figure skating continues to impress me!*

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:

* I will admit, though, to reading My Sergei, Ekaterina Gordeava's book, so I'm a closet toe-looper, too!!!! he,he,he

[Canesluver]

NCC-- you closet toe-looper, you!!! Your vast knowledge of figure skating continues to impress me!*

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:

* I will admit, though, to reading My Sergei, Ekaterina Gordeava's book, so I'm a closet toe-looper, too!!!! he,he,he

[Canesluver]

NCC-- you closet toe-looper, you!!! Your vast knowledge of figure skating continues to impress me!*

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:

* I will admit, though, to reading My Sergei, Ekaterina Gordeava's book, so I'm a closet toe-looper, too!!!! he,he,he

[Canesluver]

NCC-- you closet toe-looper, you!!! Your vast knowledge of figure skating continues to impress me!*

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:

* I will admit, though, to reading My Sergei, Ekaterina Gordeava's book, so I'm a closet toe-looper, too!!!! he,he,he

[Canesluver]

NCC-- you closet toe-looper, you!!! Your vast knowledge of figure skating continues to impress me!*

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:

* I will admit, though, to reading My Sergei, Ekaterina Gordeava's book, so I'm a closet toe-looper, too!!!! he,he,he

[Guyute]

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:


http://www.tridead.net/canes/images/smilies/rofl.gif

[Guyute]

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:


http://www.tridead.net/canes/images/smilies/rofl.gif

[Guyute]

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:


http://www.tridead.net/canes/images/smilies/rofl.gif

[Guyute]

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:


http://www.tridead.net/canes/images/smilies/rofl.gif

[Guyute]

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:


http://www.tridead.net/canes/images/smilies/rofl.gif

[Guyute]

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:


http://www.tridead.net/canes/images/smilies/rofl.gif

[Guyute]

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:


http://www.tridead.net/canes/images/smilies/rofl.gif

[nccanes]

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:


http://www.tridead.net/canes/images/smilies/rofl.gif

:lol: :lol:

No never! .....I don't cover those beautiful white skates!

:lol:

[nccanes]

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:


http://www.tridead.net/canes/images/smilies/rofl.gif

:lol: :lol:

No never! .....I don't cover those beautiful white skates!

:lol:

[nccanes]

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:


http://www.tridead.net/canes/images/smilies/rofl.gif

:lol: :lol:

No never! .....I don't cover those beautiful white skates!

:lol:

[nccanes]

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:


http://www.tridead.net/canes/images/smilies/rofl.gif

:lol: :lol:

No never! .....I don't cover those beautiful white skates!

:lol:

[nccanes]

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:


http://www.tridead.net/canes/images/smilies/rofl.gif

:lol: :lol:

No never! .....I don't cover those beautiful white skates!

:lol:

[nccanes]

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:


http://www.tridead.net/canes/images/smilies/rofl.gif

:lol: :lol:

No never! .....I don't cover those beautiful white skates!

:lol:

[nccanes]

If I looked in your closet, would I find a little lycra skating dress w/flesh colored insets, and a pair of biege tights that you can pull-over your skate boot tops?! :laugh:


http://www.tridead.net/canes/images/smilies/rofl.gif

:lol: :lol:

No never! .....I don't cover those beautiful white skates!

:lol:

[Alicia]

I didn't think they deserved a medal, either...but props to her for picking up where they left off, letting him throw her (again! :crazy:), and completing their routine.

[Alicia]

I didn't think they deserved a medal, either...but props to her for picking up where they left off, letting him throw her (again! :crazy:), and completing their routine.

[Alicia]

I didn't think they deserved a medal, either...but props to her for picking up where they left off, letting him throw her (again! :crazy:), and completing their routine.

[Alicia]

I didn't think they deserved a medal, either...but props to her for picking up where they left off, letting him throw her (again! :crazy:), and completing their routine.

[Alicia]

I didn't think they deserved a medal, either...but props to her for picking up where they left off, letting him throw her (again! :crazy:), and completing their routine.

[Alicia]

I didn't think they deserved a medal, either...but props to her for picking up where they left off, letting him throw her (again! :crazy:), and completing their routine.

[Alicia]

I didn't think they deserved a medal, either...but props to her for picking up where they left off, letting him throw her (again! :crazy:), and completing their routine.

[Shell]

IceSaber - I have been watching way too much of the figure skating in the last week :beatup: Here is what I have figured out: It's a 1 point deduction for a fall (not enough imo). Each trick is awarded a certain value, but the judges can move it 3 points up or back depending on the execution of the trick.. Also, sometimes they say "That is a 3 point deduction" after someone falls.. the deduction isn't for the fall, but it is because the skater was supposed to do a triple and only managed a double for falling, hence 3 points off the point value assigned to the trick.

[Shell]

IceSaber - I have been watching way too much of the figure skating in the last week :beatup: Here is what I have figured out: It's a 1 point deduction for a fall (not enough imo). Each trick is awarded a certain value, but the judges can move it 3 points up or back depending on the execution of the trick.. Also, sometimes they say "That is a 3 point deduction" after someone falls.. the deduction isn't for the fall, but it is because the skater was supposed to do a triple and only managed a double for falling, hence 3 points off the point value assigned to the trick.

[Shell]

IceSaber - I have been watching way too much of the figure skating in the last week :beatup: Here is what I have figured out: It's a 1 point deduction for a fall (not enough imo). Each trick is awarded a certain value, but the judges can move it 3 points up or back depending on the execution of the trick.. Also, sometimes they say "That is a 3 point deduction" after someone falls.. the deduction isn't for the fall, but it is because the skater was supposed to do a triple and only managed a double for falling, hence 3 points off the point value assigned to the trick.

[Shell]

IceSaber - I have been watching way too much of the figure skating in the last week :beatup: Here is what I have figured out: It's a 1 point deduction for a fall (not enough imo). Each trick is awarded a certain value, but the judges can move it 3 points up or back depending on the execution of the trick.. Also, sometimes they say "That is a 3 point deduction" after someone falls.. the deduction isn't for the fall, but it is because the skater was supposed to do a triple and only managed a double for falling, hence 3 points off the point value assigned to the trick.

[Shell]

IceSaber - I have been watching way too much of the figure skating in the last week :beatup: Here is what I have figured out: It's a 1 point deduction for a fall (not enough imo). Each trick is awarded a certain value, but the judges can move it 3 points up or back depending on the execution of the trick.. Also, sometimes they say "That is a 3 point deduction" after someone falls.. the deduction isn't for the fall, but it is because the skater was supposed to do a triple and only managed a double for falling, hence 3 points off the point value assigned to the trick.

[Shell]

IceSaber - I have been watching way too much of the figure skating in the last week :beatup: Here is what I have figured out: It's a 1 point deduction for a fall (not enough imo). Each trick is awarded a certain value, but the judges can move it 3 points up or back depending on the execution of the trick.. Also, sometimes they say "That is a 3 point deduction" after someone falls.. the deduction isn't for the fall, but it is because the skater was supposed to do a triple and only managed a double for falling, hence 3 points off the point value assigned to the trick.

[Shell]

IceSaber - I have been watching way too much of the figure skating in the last week :beatup: Here is what I have figured out: It's a 1 point deduction for a fall (not enough imo). Each trick is awarded a certain value, but the judges can move it 3 points up or back depending on the execution of the trick.. Also, sometimes they say "That is a 3 point deduction" after someone falls.. the deduction isn't for the fall, but it is because the skater was supposed to do a triple and only managed a double for falling, hence 3 points off the point value assigned to the trick.

[IceSaber]

Wouldn't you think a fall should subtract more than say doing a double instead of a triple? I don't get it...I totally misunderstood when they were explaining. I thought it was -3 dfor a fall - the most loss - fair in my opinion and then the sliding +/- depending on the execution and difficulty of the tricks. They are lucky I'm not a judge - I'd be brutal :beatup: .

Thanks for the info!!!

[IceSaber]

Wouldn't you think a fall should subtract more than say doing a double instead of a triple? I don't get it...I totally misunderstood when they were explaining. I thought it was -3 dfor a fall - the most loss - fair in my opinion and then the sliding +/- depending on the execution and difficulty of the tricks. They are lucky I'm not a judge - I'd be brutal :beatup: .

Thanks for the info!!!

[IceSaber]

Wouldn't you think a fall should subtract more than say doing a double instead of a triple? I don't get it...I totally misunderstood when they were explaining. I thought it was -3 dfor a fall - the most loss - fair in my opinion and then the sliding +/- depending on the execution and difficulty of the tricks. They are lucky I'm not a judge - I'd be brutal :beatup: .

Thanks for the info!!!

[IceSaber]

Wouldn't you think a fall should subtract more than say doing a double instead of a triple? I don't get it...I totally misunderstood when they were explaining. I thought it was -3 dfor a fall - the most loss - fair in my opinion and then the sliding +/- depending on the execution and difficulty of the tricks. They are lucky I'm not a judge - I'd be brutal :beatup: .

Thanks for the info!!!

[IceSaber]

Wouldn't you think a fall should subtract more than say doing a double instead of a triple? I don't get it...I totally misunderstood when they were explaining. I thought it was -3 dfor a fall - the most loss - fair in my opinion and then the sliding +/- depending on the execution and difficulty of the tricks. They are lucky I'm not a judge - I'd be brutal :beatup: .

Thanks for the info!!!

[IceSaber]

Wouldn't you think a fall should subtract more than say doing a double instead of a triple? I don't get it...I totally misunderstood when they were explaining. I thought it was -3 dfor a fall - the most loss - fair in my opinion and then the sliding +/- depending on the execution and difficulty of the tricks. They are lucky I'm not a judge - I'd be brutal :beatup: .

Thanks for the info!!!

[IceSaber]

Wouldn't you think a fall should subtract more than say doing a double instead of a triple? I don't get it...I totally misunderstood when they were explaining. I thought it was -3 dfor a fall - the most loss - fair in my opinion and then the sliding +/- depending on the execution and difficulty of the tricks. They are lucky I'm not a judge - I'd be brutal :beatup: .

Thanks for the info!!!

[nccanes]

I think there are 2 things at work. They have the "judges" that assigned deductions to elements that aren't done properly, but here is also 1 "technical specialist". He is the one that assigns the point values as they go along. I think this simplified things for the judges that had learned the old judgins system over decades. This way, only 1 person has to focus on what elements are actually being done and the point value associated. Even things like "footwork sequences" can be rated a "level 1" or 2 or 3 from the specialist.

So if someone is supposed to do a triple and does it - he assigns that element an X value. If they only do a double, it's a Y value. If they do an X, and rotate it completely, but fall on the landing, it's a deduction (I guess the -1 you are talking about). If they just bust ass and don't even fully rotate it, then I guess it's the -3 you are talking about. I believe also, that the "technical specialist" can also reduce a triple jump down to the value of a double jump, if he/she deems that the skater didn't fully rotate it, even if they landed it.

I may be off on a few things, I've been ff'ing thru the little lessons from Tracy Wilson.

[nccanes]

I think there are 2 things at work. They have the "judges" that assigned deductions to elements that aren't done properly, but here is also 1 "technical specialist". He is the one that assigns the point values as they go along. I think this simplified things for the judges that had learned the old judgins system over decades. This way, only 1 person has to focus on what elements are actually being done and the point value associated. Even things like "footwork sequences" can be rated a "level 1" or 2 or 3 from the specialist.

So if someone is supposed to do a triple and does it - he assigns that element an X value. If they only do a double, it's a Y value. If they do an X, and rotate it completely, but fall on the landing, it's a deduction (I guess the -1 you are talking about). If they just bust ass and don't even fully rotate it, then I guess it's the -3 you are talking about. I believe also, that the "technical specialist" can also reduce a triple jump down to the value of a double jump, if he/she deems that the skater didn't fully rotate it, even if they landed it.

I may be off on a few things, I've been ff'ing thru the little lessons from Tracy Wilson.

[nccanes]

I think there are 2 things at work. They have the "judges" that assigned deductions to elements that aren't done properly, but here is also 1 "technical specialist". He is the one that assigns the point values as they go along. I think this simplified things for the judges that had learned the old judgins system over decades. This way, only 1 person has to focus on what elements are actually being done and the point value associated. Even things like "footwork sequences" can be rated a "level 1" or 2 or 3 from the specialist.

So if someone is supposed to do a triple and does it - he assigns that element an X value. If they only do a double, it's a Y value. If they do an X, and rotate it completely, but fall on the landing, it's a deduction (I guess the -1 you are talking about). If they just bust ass and don't even fully rotate it, then I guess it's the -3 you are talking about. I believe also, that the "technical specialist" can also reduce a triple jump down to the value of a double jump, if he/she deems that the skater didn't fully rotate it, even if they landed it.

I may be off on a few things, I've been ff'ing thru the little lessons from Tracy Wilson.

[nccanes]

I think there are 2 things at work. They have the "judges" that assigned deductions to elements that aren't done properly, but here is also 1 "technical specialist". He is the one that assigns the point values as they go along. I think this simplified things for the judges that had learned the old judgins system over decades. This way, only 1 person has to focus on what elements are actually being done and the point value associated. Even things like "footwork sequences" can be rated a "level 1" or 2 or 3 from the specialist.

So if someone is supposed to do a triple and does it - he assigns that element an X value. If they only do a double, it's a Y value. If they do an X, and rotate it completely, but fall on the landing, it's a deduction (I guess the -1 you are talking about). If they just bust ass and don't even fully rotate it, then I guess it's the -3 you are talking about. I believe also, that the "technical specialist" can also reduce a triple jump down to the value of a double jump, if he/she deems that the skater didn't fully rotate it, even if they landed it.

I may be off on a few things, I've been ff'ing thru the little lessons from Tracy Wilson.

[nccanes]

I think there are 2 things at work. They have the "judges" that assigned deductions to elements that aren't done properly, but here is also 1 "technical specialist". He is the one that assigns the point values as they go along. I think this simplified things for the judges that had learned the old judgins system over decades. This way, only 1 person has to focus on what elements are actually being done and the point value associated. Even things like "footwork sequences" can be rated a "level 1" or 2 or 3 from the specialist.

So if someone is supposed to do a triple and does it - he assigns that element an X value. If they only do a double, it's a Y value. If they do an X, and rotate it completely, but fall on the landing, it's a deduction (I guess the -1 you are talking about). If they just bust ass and don't even fully rotate it, then I guess it's the -3 you are talking about. I believe also, that the "technical specialist" can also reduce a triple jump down to the value of a double jump, if he/she deems that the skater didn't fully rotate it, even if they landed it.

I may be off on a few things, I've been ff'ing thru the little lessons from Tracy Wilson.

[nccanes]

I think there are 2 things at work. They have the "judges" that assigned deductions to elements that aren't done properly, but here is also 1 "technical specialist". He is the one that assigns the point values as they go along. I think this simplified things for the judges that had learned the old judgins system over decades. This way, only 1 person has to focus on what elements are actually being done and the point value associated. Even things like "footwork sequences" can be rated a "level 1" or 2 or 3 from the specialist.

So if someone is supposed to do a triple and does it - he assigns that element an X value. If they only do a double, it's a Y value. If they do an X, and rotate it completely, but fall on the landing, it's a deduction (I guess the -1 you are talking about). If they just bust ass and don't even fully rotate it, then I guess it's the -3 you are talking about. I believe also, that the "technical specialist" can also reduce a triple jump down to the value of a double jump, if he/she deems that the skater didn't fully rotate it, even if they landed it.

I may be off on a few things, I've been ff'ing thru the little lessons from Tracy Wilson.

[nccanes]

I think there are 2 things at work. They have the "judges" that assigned deductions to elements that aren't done properly, but here is also 1 "technical specialist". He is the one that assigns the point values as they go along. I think this simplified things for the judges that had learned the old judgins system over decades. This way, only 1 person has to focus on what elements are actually being done and the point value associated. Even things like "footwork sequences" can be rated a "level 1" or 2 or 3 from the specialist.

So if someone is supposed to do a triple and does it - he assigns that element an X value. If they only do a double, it's a Y value. If they do an X, and rotate it completely, but fall on the landing, it's a deduction (I guess the -1 you are talking about). If they just bust ass and don't even fully rotate it, then I guess it's the -3 you are talking about. I believe also, that the "technical specialist" can also reduce a triple jump down to the value of a double jump, if he/she deems that the skater didn't fully rotate it, even if they landed it.

I may be off on a few things, I've been ff'ing thru the little lessons from Tracy Wilson.

[puckin_A]

I don't know about you guys, but I am loving the entertainment of Johnny Wier. He is pretty funny.......and what a flamer....lol

[puckin_A]

I don't know about you guys, but I am loving the entertainment of Johnny Wier. He is pretty funny.......and what a flamer....lol

[puckin_A]

I don't know about you guys, but I am loving the entertainment of Johnny Wier. He is pretty funny.......and what a flamer....lol

[puckin_A]

I don't know about you guys, but I am loving the entertainment of Johnny Wier. He is pretty funny.......and what a flamer....lol

[puckin_A]

I don't know about you guys, but I am loving the entertainment of Johnny Wier. He is pretty funny.......and what a flamer....lol

[puckin_A]

I don't know about you guys, but I am loving the entertainment of Johnny Wier. He is pretty funny.......and what a flamer....lol

[puckin_A]

I don't know about you guys, but I am loving the entertainment of Johnny Wier. He is pretty funny.......and what a flamer....lol

[nccanes]

I fell asleep before the end of the broadcast last night, but after reading about the ice dancing falls in the paper, I quickly ff'd thru just to see them this morning.

The Italian pair (who came out of retirement just to compete at home) was one of the pairs that fell. The article indicated that Fusar-Poli bore holes in her partner. I LMAO this morning as they stood at center ice, hands on hips, like a standoff for about 20 seconds, before they did their little curtsey/bow thing. Fusar-Poli is basically accepted to be the much stronger of the pair, so I guess she was none to pleased.

http://us.news2.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20060219/capt.olypa24002192153.winter_olympics_figure_skati ng_ice_dancing_tr2_italy_olypa240.jpg

:lol:

I noticed that Mauricio (who is Ladies Thread material, btw ;) ) made sure not to say "I'm sorry" or "my fault" or anything remotely close to appearing to take blame.

[nccanes]

I fell asleep before the end of the broadcast last night, but after reading about the ice dancing falls in the paper, I quickly ff'd thru just to see them this morning.

The Italian pair (who came out of retirement just to compete at home) was one of the pairs that fell. The article indicated that Fusar-Poli bore holes in her partner. I LMAO this morning as they stood at center ice, hands on hips, like a standoff for about 20 seconds, before they did their little curtsey/bow thing. Fusar-Poli is basically accepted to be the much stronger of the pair, so I guess she was none to pleased.

http://us.news2.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20060219/capt.olypa24002192153.winter_olympics_figure_skati ng_ice_dancing_tr2_italy_olypa240.jpg

:lol:

I noticed that Mauricio (who is Ladies Thread material, btw ;) ) made sure not to say "I'm sorry" or "my fault" or anything remotely close to appearing to take blame.

[nccanes]

I fell asleep before the end of the broadcast last night, but after reading about the ice dancing falls in the paper, I quickly ff'd thru just to see them this morning.

The Italian pair (who came out of retirement just to compete at home) was one of the pairs that fell. The article indicated that Fusar-Poli bore holes in her partner. I LMAO this morning as they stood at center ice, hands on hips, like a standoff for about 20 seconds, before they did their little curtsey/bow thing. Fusar-Poli is basically accepted to be the much stronger of the pair, so I guess she was none to pleased.

http://us.news2.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20060219/capt.olypa24002192153.winter_olympics_figure_skati ng_ice_dancing_tr2_italy_olypa240.jpg

:lol:

I noticed that Mauricio (who is Ladies Thread material, btw ;) ) made sure not to say "I'm sorry" or "my fault" or anything remotely close to appearing to take blame.

[nccanes]

I fell asleep before the end of the broadcast last night, but after reading about the ice dancing falls in the paper, I quickly ff'd thru just to see them this morning.

The Italian pair (who came out of retirement just to compete at home) was one of the pairs that fell. The article indicated that Fusar-Poli bore holes in her partner. I LMAO this morning as they stood at center ice, hands on hips, like a standoff for about 20 seconds, before they did their little curtsey/bow thing. Fusar-Poli is basically accepted to be the much stronger of the pair, so I guess she was none to pleased.

http://us.news2.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20060219/capt.olypa24002192153.winter_olympics_figure_skati ng_ice_dancing_tr2_italy_olypa240.jpg

:lol:

I noticed that Mauricio (who is Ladies Thread material, btw ;) ) made sure not to say "I'm sorry" or "my fault" or anything remotely close to appearing to take blame.

[nccanes]

I fell asleep before the end of the broadcast last night, but after reading about the ice dancing falls in the paper, I quickly ff'd thru just to see them this morning.

The Italian pair (who came out of retirement just to compete at home) was one of the pairs that fell. The article indicated that Fusar-Poli bore holes in her partner. I LMAO this morning as they stood at center ice, hands on hips, like a standoff for about 20 seconds, before they did their little curtsey/bow thing. Fusar-Poli is basically accepted to be the much stronger of the pair, so I guess she was none to pleased.

http://us.news2.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20060219/capt.olypa24002192153.winter_olympics_figure_skati ng_ice_dancing_tr2_italy_olypa240.jpg

:lol:

I noticed that Mauricio (who is Ladies Thread material, btw ;) ) made sure not to say "I'm sorry" or "my fault" or anything remotely close to appearing to take blame.