Lights and Shadows at the Scandinavium by Sonia Bianchetti Garbato
Men's Final - ContinuedJoubert also expressed the opinion that we need to give more points for the quads, which is correct. The scale of values of the jumps should be totally revised. Still, Buttle fully deserved to be first in the technical score due to the quality of his skating and of all his elements. Even if the ISU leadership claims that in figure skating, being a sport, difficulty must prevail over quality and artistry, it would simply be suicidal for figure skating if one single jump, as difficult as it may be, could determine the overall result.
As Jeffrey said, “Figure skating is everything. It is not just about the jumps. I definitely feel like I earned the title and I am happy”. And “I started skating because I watched Kurt Browning and Brian Orser. You remember the programs, not the elements. That's what I'm most passionate about”. Correct, Jeffrey! And what appears very encouraging to me is that it seems that this is the prevailing philosophy also among the Canadian officials and coaches: Jessica Dube and Bryce Davison in pairs, Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir in ice dancing, Joannie Rochette in ladies and, of course, Jeffrey Buttle in men are perfect examples. Definitely encouraging for our sport and a great comeback for Canada. Congratulations.
Ice Dancing
As to ice dancing, not being an expert, as is well known, I can only express an opinion as a spectator. Some programs were really outstanding, with beautiful and enjoyable skating . The one I preferred was that of the Canadians Virtue /Moir , followed by Delobel/ Shoenfelder and the Italians Federica Faiella and Massimo Scali.
With the World Championships the skating season comes to the end. As a general remark I would say that it is just depressing to see all these talented skaters, some of whom are real marvels, who are unable to perform at their best because they are required to execute elements beyond their capabilities just to get the highest possible number of points.
The music is just background noise to most skaters and the multitude of restrictive boundaries kill choreography as well as the development of a personal style and creativity in a sport where such elements are essential.
Reprinted With Permission - soniabianchetti.com
March 30, 2008
