The iconic Skate Canada International figure skating competition kicked off with a dazzling display of talent and artistry in the women’s short program. Defending champion Kaori Sakamoto of Japan delivered a mesmerizing performance that left the audience in awe and put her in prime position to claim another title.
Sakamoto Soars to the Top
Skating to a captivating soundtrack, Kaori Sakamoto showcased her signature grace, power, and precision on the ice. The three-time world champion earned a score of 74.97 points for her short program, setting the bar exceptionally high for her competitors.
Kaori was absolutely breathtaking out there. Her jumps were huge, her spins were fast and centered, and her artistry was unparalleled. She’s in a league of her own right now.
– A renowned figure skating expert
Sakamoto’s program featured a dizzying array of challenging elements, including:
- A soaring triple Axel
- Lightning-fast spins
- Intricate footwork
- Expressive choreography
Alysa Liu and Kimmy Repond Round Out Top Three
American rising star Alysa Liu delivered an impressive performance to claim second place with 67.68 points. The 2022 Olympian showcased her immense potential and is poised to challenge for the podium in the free skate.
Switzerland’s Kimmy Repond finished third with a score of 66.94 points. The up-and-coming skater displayed poise and polish beyond her years, announcing herself as a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.
Stellato-Dudek and Deschamps Lead Pairs Short Program
In the pairs competition, reigning world champions Deanna Stellato-Dudek and Maxime Deschamps of Canada took the lead with a commanding performance. Despite a minor miscue on their throw triple loop, the duo still earned an impressive 73.23 points.
Going out there, being in front of our home crowd, for the first time since worlds — that was great. We did a lot of stuff that we improved since the last competition, and we’re happy with that.
– Maxime Deschamps
Germany’s Annika Hocke and Robert Kunkel sit in second with 64.82 points, narrowly ahead of Australia’s Anastasia Golubeva and Hektor Giotopoulos Moore who earned 64.81 points.
Anticipation Builds for Free Programs
With the short programs complete, all eyes now turn to the free skates, where the medals will ultimately be decided. Kaori Sakamoto is in pole position to defend her Skate Canada title, but the likes of Alysa Liu and Kimmy Repond will be hot on her heels, ready to pounce on any opportunity.
In the pairs event, Stellato-Dudek and Deschamps will look to extend their lead and claim victory on home ice. However, the chasing pack, led by Hocke/Kunkel and Golubeva/Giotopoulos Moore, will be determined to make things difficult for the Canadian champions.
As the competition reaches its climax, figure skating fans around the world will be glued to their screens, eagerly awaiting the breathtaking displays of skill, artistry, and emotion that have come to define this captivating sport. Will Kaori Sakamoto reign supreme once again? Can Deanna Stellato-Dudek and Maxime Deschamps thrill their home crowd with a golden performance? The stage is set for an unforgettable conclusion to Skate Canada International.
