Olympic preview part 5: ice dance.
Welcome to the fifth part of my Olympic figure skating preview! This one is for ice dance - the prettiest, craziest, and sparkliest of the four disciplines.
Before we get started, I have a few links to share, based on conversations I've had in the comments to other posts. Some people have expressed interest in the fanfic side of things, which I am happy to encourage; the LJ community for that is ice_slash.
Several people have told me they're frustrated that their local coverage doesn't show the full standings very often or explain how the scores added up. NBC is actually doing a great job of that in their online coverage. While an event is in progress, you can go to the Figure Skating Results page and click on the link to the event. It should give you scores and rankings in real time, including a list of what scores each skater got for each element. This should work even if you're not a US resident.
And now, on to the dance. Before the 2006 Olympics, I didn't enjoy dance at all: I thought it was boring, silly, and retro, and the lack of jumps made it less dramatic. If that's your assumption, prepare to have it blown away: the changes in the scoring system demand a lot more athleticism from ice dancers. At its best, ice dance is a showcase of stamina and precision - qualities that all elite figure skaters have to have, but that you don't see as clearly in the other disciplines. Another way to think of it is, dance is what happens when you take out the jumps and have to notice everything else.
It is also disproportionately populated with very attractive athletes. And it is the strongest figure skating discipline for the USA and Canada - there is a very real possibility of a North American podium sweep in ice dance at these Olympics.
For those of you just joining us, this is my FAQ about figure skating, and this is the part of that post where I explain how ice dance works.
Belbin & Agosto
Original dance at the 2010 US National Championships, to a traditional Moldavian folk dance
Names: Tanith Belbin and Benjamin Agosto
Country: USA
Ages: 25 & 28
Free dance at the 2010 US National Championships, to Stabat Mater by Gioachino Rossini and "Ave Maria"
Past competitive highlights: 2006 Olympic silver medalists. Two-time and reigning World silver medalists (2005, 2009) and two-time World bronze medalists (2006-7). Five-time US national champions (2004-8), and four-time and reigning US silver medalists (2001-3, 2010). Three-time Four Continents champions (2004-6). 2002 World Junior champions.
They'll do well because: They have a long, successful competitive record, and many feel like it's finally their turn for gold. They changed coaches two years ago, and since then, they've improved their edge depth, precision, and speed, which are especially important in the compulsory dance. They're a dramatic, musical team with an intense, sexy on-ice chemistry.
They might have trouble because: It's possible that they peaked sometime around the last Olympics, and now it seems that some of the younger teams have surpassed them. Agosto has a serious chronic back injury that restricts the kinds of lifts that they can do.
Fun facts: Agosto is of Puerto Rican and Jewish descent. He plays a mean blues guitar. He lives with his longtime girlfriend and their three small dogs. Belbin is originally from Canada and got dual US/Canadian citizenship just in time for the 2006 Olympics, thanks to the passage of a law expediting citizenship for people with unique talents. She recently revealed that she has been struggling with an eating disorder for much of her skating career.
My opinion: This team makes me all fangirl and stupid. They're entirely responsible for my love of ice dance. So I am rooting for them, but with reservations - I think a few teams outskate them now. I'd be over the moon just to see them make the podium in what will probably be the last competition of their career, and I think that's how they feel, too.
Cappellini & Lanotte
Original dance at the 2010 European Championships, to an Italian folk dance medley
Names: Anna Cappellini and Luca Lanotte
Country: Italy
Ages: 22 & 24
Free dance at the 2010 European Championships, to the soundtrack from Requiem for a Dream by Clint Mansell
Past competitive highlights: Four-time and reigning Italian silver medalists (2007-10). They placed sixth at this year's European Championships and tenth at last year's World Championships.
They'll do well because: They're an up-and-coming team with extremely strong technical skills. Their lifts and footwork earn them a lot of points. They had an unexpectedly successful early season, coming in second at both of their Grand Prix events and qualifying for the prestigious Grand Prix Final. They have great on-ice chemistry.
They might have trouble because: They've raised the difficulty of their programs in preparation for the Olympics, but they often look like they've bitten off more than they can chew: their artistry has suffered, and they sometimes look like they're struggling. They've been "up-and-coming" for several years now without really breaking through, and they're in danger of just settling in the middle.
Fun facts: Cappellini and Lanotte used to be an off-ice couple, but they started skating together after they broke up. They're both pretty strong-willed and admit to getting into arguments with each other in training - but she claims that he's the high-strung one who usually starts it.
My opinion: They used to be fiery and fun to watch, but I feel like they've sacrificed a lot in their quest to stay technically competitive with other teams. Their free dance in particular doesn't really seem to suit their personalities or their type of chemistry. I don't think they'll win a medal, but I think they're good enough for the top ten.
Crone & Poirier
Original dance at the 2010 Canadian National Championships, to "En Malaga" by Roger Scannura
Names: Vanessa Crone and Paul Poirier
Country: Canada
Ages: 19 & 18
Free dance at the 2010 Canadian National Champiopnships, to "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen
Past competitive highlights: Two-time and reigning Canadian silver medalists (2009-10). 2008 World Junior silver medalists. They were 12th at last year's World Championships.
They'll do well because: They're an exuberant young team that has shot ahead of more seasoned competitors very quickly. Their level of difficulty is quite high in both footwork and lifts. They're cute and charismatic, and they've figured how to make their unconventional chemistry an asset.
They might have trouble because: Their skating is still rough and raw around the edges, and they often make difficult things look difficult. They have a connection with each other, but their chemistry isn't sexy. Since they're so young, the judges might decide it's not their turn to win yet.
Fun facts: Poirier went to the same high school as Patrick Chan. Like so many male figure skaters, he was originally supposed to play hockey, but his parents signed him up for figure skating lessons because he kept trying to spin around on the dots on the ice. Crone and Poirier skated together in pairs as well but focused on ice dance because they jump in opposite directions.
My opinion: Some Canadian fans are upset that they edged out other teams for this Olympic spot, but I'm very pleased. International judges seem to like these two a lot - although probably not enough to put them anywhere near medal contention this early in their career. I think they have an excellent shot at the podium in 2014. For now, I'll just enjoy watching them, since they're an entertaining team with a unique style.
Davis & White
Original dance at the 2010 US National Championships, to soundtracks from Bunty Aur Bably by Shankar Mahadevan, Ehsaan Noorani, and Loy Mendonsa and Devdas by Sameer and Nusret Badr
Names: Meryl Davis and Charlie White
Country: USA
Ages: 23 & 22
Free dance at the 2010 US National Championships, to The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Past competitive highlights: Two-time and reigning US national champions (2009-10); silver in 2008 and bronze in 2007. 2009 Four Continents champions. 2009 Grand Prix Final champions. They were fourth at the World Championships last year.
They'll do well because: They have won every competition they've entered this year and beaten most of their major rivals in the process. No other team can match their speed or the intricacy and beauty of their footwork. They're great actors who really get into the character of their programs. Their original dance is such a triumph that it's become a viral video on YouTube.
They might have trouble because: They're relatively young, and despite their accomplishments throughout the season, they might not get past old-fashioned ice dance judges who think it's not their turn yet. White sometimes gets overexcited and makes crazy mistakes.
Fun facts: Davis and White have been skating together since 1997, when they were nine and ten years old. Both skaters are part-time students at the University of Michigan, where Davis is a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority. White had to quit playing competitive hockey when he broke his ankle in 2004, ending his and Davis's season and pissing her off.
My opinion: Even if I didn't get a little hot just looking at them, I would be rooting for them. They have risen through this sport at a shocking rate, and now there is no question in my mind that they are the best ice dancers in the world. I believe they will be able to prove that on Olympic ice, and I hope the judges reward them for their brilliance rather than deciding someone else "deserves" it more.
Delobel & Schoenfelder
Original dance at the 2008 World Championships, to a Breton gavotte; their music for this season is a French can can.
Names: Isabelle Delobel & Olivier Schoenfelder
Country: France
Ages: 31 & 32
Free dance at the 2008 Grand Prix Final, to"The Great Gig in the Sky" by Pink Floyd; this season's program is to "La Quête" by Jacques Brel
Past competitive highlights: 2008 World champions. 2007 European champions; silver in 2008 and bronze in 2005. Six-time French national champions (2003-8). 2008 Grand Prix Final champions. They placed fourth at the 2006 Olympics and 16th in 2002.
They'll do well because: They are smart, seasoned competitors who interpret music extremely well. They connect to each other well emotionally and do a great job of telling a story in their programs. They've never won an Olympic medal and know this is their last chance, so they'll be skating their hearts out.
They might have trouble because: While their technical content has been astonishing in the past, recent serious injuries and their age may have limited their ability to perform like they used to. They had to sit out half of last season while Schoenfelder recovered from surgery on his shoulder, and then Delobel got pregnant, sidelining them for the summer and fall. This will be their first competition after that hiatus, which is very risky. Since they were World champions two years ago, the judges might feel that their turn for victory has come and gone.
Fun facts: Both Delobel and Schoenfelder are married to non-skaters, although Delobel's husband is a former Olympic skiier. Schoenfelder and his wife have a three-year-old son, and Delobel's new baby is four months old. Delobel has an identical twin sister, Veronique, who also used to be a competitive ice dancer.
My opinion: I really have no idea - since this team hasn't competed at all in a year, nobody knows what they're going to look like. I have a lot of respect for this team but don't love their skating style, which is a little too theatrical and high concept for me. Other skaters are favored to win, but this team has everything it takes to earn a medal. Or, at least, they did two years ago.
Domnina & Shabalin
Compulsory dance at the 2010 European Championships, to the Tango Romantica
Names: Oksana Domnina and Maxim Shabalin
Country: Russia
Ages: 25 & 28
Free dance at the 2010 European Championships, to the soundtracks from The Double Life of Véronique by Zbigniew Preisner and Requiem for a Dream by Clint Mansell
Past competitive highlights: 2009 World champions. Two-time and reigning European champions (2008, 2010); silver in 2007. 2003 World Junior champions. Three-time and reigning Russian champions (2005, 2007, 2010); silver in 2004 and 2006; bronze in 2003. 2007 Grand Prix Final champions. They placed 9th at the 2006 Olympics.
They'll do well because: Some people, especially in Russia, think they've "earned" Olympic gold, and the judges seem to love them, awarding them very high scores. They have extraordinary edge quality, the best in the sport right now, and their precision and speed in the compulsory dance often gives them a big lead that other teams can't surmount.
They might have trouble because: Their original and free dances are weak this year - if it weren't for the compulsory dance, they would have lost Euros to the Italians this year. Their original dance has also drawn fire for seeming racist, although they say they've changed the costumes. (This is why I chose a picture from their compulsory dance to illustrate this section.) Shabalin is suffering from a chronic knee injury that severely limits him.
Fun facts: Domnina and Shabalin train in suburban Philadelphia, sharing coaches with Americans Belbin and Agosto and Italians Faiella and Scali. Both have complained pretty openly about her hatred for living and training in the United States. Domnina misses her family and city life; Shabalin just can't stand the coffee.
My opinion: I think they peaked two or three years ago, and every subsequent victory has been a gift from the judges. I am far from alone in this opinion, and many of those who hold it, myself included, actually enjoy their skating. In a just and fair world, they will not make the podium, but who ever said ice dance was fair?
Faiella & Scali
Original dance at the 2010 European Championships, to "Tamurriata Nera" and "Tarantella Pizzicata," traditional Italian dances
Names: Federica Faiella and Massimo Scali
Country: Italy
Ages: 29 & 30
Free dance at the 2010 European Championships, to The Immigrants by Nino Rota
Past competitive highlights: Two-time and reigning European silver medalists (2009-10). Seven-time and reigning Italian national champions. They placed eighth at last year's World Championships, 13th at the 2006 Olympics, and 18th at the 2002 Olympics.
They'll do well because: They're an innovative team with some of the most dramatic lifts in ice dance, including a "reverse lift" in which she lifts him. Their programs tend to be creative and even funny, with lots of drama and character. Although they narrowly lost Euros this year, they were first in both the original dance and the free dance.
They might have trouble because: They aren't as strong in the compulsory dance as other teams, and sometimes (as in this year's Euros) they can't make up the distance. Their skating style can look unpolished, and sometimes their programs go so far over the top that the judges don't understand them.
Fun facts: Unlike their training mates, Domnina and Shabalin, these two love training in the United States, and Scali in particular plans to stay in America even after he retires from skating. The team are very close (platonic) friends and tend to laugh and share inside jokes during interviews.
My opinion: I enjoy this team a lot more off the ice than on it. Despite their focus on "keeping the dance in ice dance," I think a lot of their skating looks labored and clunky. They freely admit that other teams are better than them, and it sounds like they're just going to the Olympics to skate and have fun. But sometimes it's just that attitude that brings a dark horse team to the podium.
Kerr & Kerr
Original dance at the 2009 Grand Prix Final, to "I've Been Everywhere" by Johnny Cash
Names: Sinead Kerr and John Kerr
Country: Great Britain
Ages: 31 & 29
Free dance at the 2010 European Championships, to "Krwlng" by Linkin Park
Past competitive highlights: Seven-time and reigning British national champions. 2009 European bronze medalists. They placed 7th at last year's World Championships and 10th at the 2006 Olympics.
They'll do well because: They have some of the most crowd-pleasing programs in ice dance and a really fun presence on the ice. Their lifts are exciting and creative. Unlike many brother-sister teams, who seem a little creepy, the Kerrs relate to each other naturally on the ice.
They might have trouble because: Their skating skills are not as strong as some of the other teams; they skate with less speed and with shallower edges. They've been knocking on the door of the top tier for a long time, but they seem to have stood still while other teams have surpassed them.
Fun facts: The Kerrs frequently skate to popular artists like Muse and Enigma, so many of their best programs aren't available on YouTube. They're Scottish and very proud of it! Both skaters have worked as models and actors.
My opinion: This team won't place particularly high, although you'll probably see them within the top ten. They're notable mostly because they are one of the most entertaining teams in the sport, much more concerned with convincing the audience than the judges. Like them, I don't really care about their scores - I care that they'll put on a fabulous show.
Khokhlova & Novitski
Original dance at the 2010 European Championships, to "Vdol po Piterskoi," a traditional Russian dance
Names: Jana Khokhlova and Sergei Novitski
Country: Russia
Ages: 24 & 28
Free dance at the 2010 European Championships, to The Firebird by Igor Stravinsky
Past competitive highlights: 2009 European champions; bronze in 2008 and 2010. 2008 World bronze medalists; they were 6th last year. Two-time Russian national champions (2008-9); silver in 2007; bronze in 2005 and 2006. They placed 12th at the 2006 Olympics.
They'll do well because: They are a quirky, dynamic team with a new free dance that plays to their oddball on-ice personalities. Khokhlova is astonishingly poised and flexible, and their lifts are tremendous.
They might have trouble because: They have been struggling through a terrible season, plagued by injuries, illness, and bickering. They had to change their free dance mid-season because it was too conservative to work for them, so they haven't had many opportunities to test drive their Firebird program.
Fun facts: Move over, Plushenko - Sergei Novitski has the most ridiculous mullet in figure skating. Both skaters had a rocky road to elite-level ice dance: Khokhlova spent years in a children's ice ballet, while Novitski tried for singles but couldn't get his triple jumps. They both suffered through several bad partnerships before finding each other and seemed to come out of nowhere once they did.
My opinion: I love watching this team, and I'd love to see them show up to the Olympics refreshed and healthy. Unfortunately, with Novitski's knee problems, I'm not keeping my hopes up too high. Most of their successes have come because other teams have withdrawn or made mistakes. If this Olympics is a dance splatfest like the last one, Khokhlova and Novitski could contort and monster-face their way to a medal, but otherwise they'll be lucky to squeak into the top five.
Péchalat & Bourzat
Original dance at the 2010 European Championships, to an American country music medley
Names: Nathalie Péchalat and Fabian Bourzat
Country: France
Ages: 26 & 29
Free dance at the 2010 European Championships, to "Kika" by Ezekiel and the soundtrack to Requiem for a Dream by Clint Mansell
Past competitive highlights: 2009 French national champions; three-time national silver medalists and two-time bronze medalists. They have placed fourth at the past two European Championships (2009-2010). They were fifth at last year's World Championships and 18th at the 2006 Olympics.
They'll do well because: They are fast and lyrical skaters with an intense style that ice dance judges tend to like. Their programs are unusual and memorable, with creative choreography and difficult lifts.
They might have trouble because: Their programs tend to cross the line between innovative and just plain bizarre. Sometimes judges mark down what they don't understand. They're a good team but not a great one, as evidenced by the fact that they've never won a senior-level international competition. Their footwork and lifts often look sloppy and even painful.
Fun facts: Two years ago, Péchalat and Bourzat left their longtime French coaches to study with legendary Russian coach Alexander Zhulin - kind of a slap in the face to the French skating administration. Because their rink is largely booked with hockey games, they were practicing from midnight to 5 AM for a while. They say that their free dance was inspired by Tim Burton movies.
My opinion: I am not a big fan of this team; I think their programs are so conceptual they're just ridiculous, and I find their skating ugly and unpolished, even now that Zhulin is purportedly helping them fix that. I think they'll land in the lower reaches of the top ten, probably at the expense of other teams more pleasurable to watch.
Samuelson & Bates
Original dance at the 2010 US National Championships, to "Long Time Gone" and "White Trash Wedding" by The Dixie Chicks
Names: Emily Samuelson and Evan Bates
Country: USA
Ages: 19 & 20
Free dance at the 2010 US National Championships, to "Canto Della Terra" by Francesco Sartori
Past competitive highlights: 2008 World Junior champions. 2010 US National bronze medalists; silver in 2009; junior national champions in 2007. They placed 11th at last year's World Championships.
They'll do well because: They are terrific technical skaters, especially in the depth of their edges and the intricacy and power of their lifts. Although they're a young team, they skate with a lot of maturity and polish. Their original dance is crowd-pleasing, and they skate it wonderfully.
They might have trouble because: This is another team who might suffer from their youth - both because the judges might think it's not their turn and because they seem to get overwhelmed in the free dance at major competitions. They also might have to make up ground after their compulsory dance; other teams are stronger in that.
Fun facts: Samuelson was a finalist in a Miss Teen Michigan pageant as a teenager and would like to be on Survivor someday. Both skaters are part-time students at the University of Michigan. Bates lives in a house on campus with Charlie White and two other male figure skaters. One of his goals at the Olympics is to pose for a picture with every member of the Detroit Red Wings who is competing in the Games.
My opinion: I watch these two and am convinced that US ice dance has a shining future ahead of it. I really enjoy Bates's dorky attention-whore on-ice persona, and I think they've figured out how to make their personalities and bodies work for them on the ice. I really hope they'll make the top 10 and think they can do it even in this crowded field. Even if they don't, they'll be fun to watch.
Virtue & Moir
Original dance at the 2010 Canadian National Championships, to "Farrulas" by Pepe Romero
Names: Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir
Country: Canada
Ages: 20 & 22
Free dance at the 2009 Grand Prix Final, to Symphony No. 5 by Gustav Mahler
Past competitive highlights: 2008 World silver medalists and 2009 World bronze medalists. Three-time and reigning Canadian national champions (2008-10); silver in 2007 and bronze in 2006. 2008 Four Continents champions. 2006 World Junior champions.
They'll do well because: They're among the best ice dancers in the world: a well-rounded and well-matched team, and extremely powerful skaters. His strength and speed in their lifts is astonishing, as is their ability to maintain unison in blindingly fast footwork. They'll have the home team advantage, and their recent history of World medals might convince the judges that despite their youth, now is their time.
They might have trouble because: It seems like Davis and White, who have always been a step behind them in the past, have now surged ahead of them. They've lost their fresh, youthful quality awfully fast - they skate older than they are. (That might actually be an asset.) They lost most of the 2008-9 season because Tessa was injured, and they still haven't regained all their momentum.
Fun facts: Like several of the current top teams, they've been skating together since they were in grade school; they were paired together in 1997 and have never skated with another partner. Both are the youngest children in large families, and Moir is from a family in which everyone skates: his older brothers play hockey, and two of his cousins are championship-level synchronized skaters. Earlier in the season, their free dance featured a lift in which Virtue balanced on Moir's back, nicknamed the Canada Goose, but it turned out to break the rules for ice dance lifts, so they will not be performing it at the Olympics. You bet they're bitter about that.
My opinion: I was madly in love with this team when they were coming up from juniors, but I've cooled to them in the past couple of years. I feel like their emotional connection isn't as strong as it used to be, and their skating has gotten a lot more conservative and less interesting. But I love their original dance, and their technique is pretty breathtaking. You'll almost definitely see them on the podium, and they're strong contenders for gold. But I'd rather see the USA run away with this one.
Before we get started, I have a few links to share, based on conversations I've had in the comments to other posts. Some people have expressed interest in the fanfic side of things, which I am happy to encourage; the LJ community for that is ice_slash.
Several people have told me they're frustrated that their local coverage doesn't show the full standings very often or explain how the scores added up. NBC is actually doing a great job of that in their online coverage. While an event is in progress, you can go to the Figure Skating Results page and click on the link to the event. It should give you scores and rankings in real time, including a list of what scores each skater got for each element. This should work even if you're not a US resident.
And now, on to the dance. Before the 2006 Olympics, I didn't enjoy dance at all: I thought it was boring, silly, and retro, and the lack of jumps made it less dramatic. If that's your assumption, prepare to have it blown away: the changes in the scoring system demand a lot more athleticism from ice dancers. At its best, ice dance is a showcase of stamina and precision - qualities that all elite figure skaters have to have, but that you don't see as clearly in the other disciplines. Another way to think of it is, dance is what happens when you take out the jumps and have to notice everything else.
It is also disproportionately populated with very attractive athletes. And it is the strongest figure skating discipline for the USA and Canada - there is a very real possibility of a North American podium sweep in ice dance at these Olympics.
For those of you just joining us, this is my FAQ about figure skating, and this is the part of that post where I explain how ice dance works.
Belbin & Agosto
Original dance at the 2010 US National Championships, to a traditional Moldavian folk dance
Names: Tanith Belbin and Benjamin Agosto
Country: USA
Ages: 25 & 28
Free dance at the 2010 US National Championships, to Stabat Mater by Gioachino Rossini and "Ave Maria"
Past competitive highlights: 2006 Olympic silver medalists. Two-time and reigning World silver medalists (2005, 2009) and two-time World bronze medalists (2006-7). Five-time US national champions (2004-8), and four-time and reigning US silver medalists (2001-3, 2010). Three-time Four Continents champions (2004-6). 2002 World Junior champions.
They'll do well because: They have a long, successful competitive record, and many feel like it's finally their turn for gold. They changed coaches two years ago, and since then, they've improved their edge depth, precision, and speed, which are especially important in the compulsory dance. They're a dramatic, musical team with an intense, sexy on-ice chemistry.
They might have trouble because: It's possible that they peaked sometime around the last Olympics, and now it seems that some of the younger teams have surpassed them. Agosto has a serious chronic back injury that restricts the kinds of lifts that they can do.
Click to viewFun facts: Agosto is of Puerto Rican and Jewish descent. He plays a mean blues guitar. He lives with his longtime girlfriend and their three small dogs. Belbin is originally from Canada and got dual US/Canadian citizenship just in time for the 2006 Olympics, thanks to the passage of a law expediting citizenship for people with unique talents. She recently revealed that she has been struggling with an eating disorder for much of her skating career.
My opinion: This team makes me all fangirl and stupid. They're entirely responsible for my love of ice dance. So I am rooting for them, but with reservations - I think a few teams outskate them now. I'd be over the moon just to see them make the podium in what will probably be the last competition of their career, and I think that's how they feel, too.
Cappellini & Lanotte
Original dance at the 2010 European Championships, to an Italian folk dance medley
Names: Anna Cappellini and Luca Lanotte
Country: Italy
Ages: 22 & 24
Free dance at the 2010 European Championships, to the soundtrack from Requiem for a Dream by Clint Mansell
Past competitive highlights: Four-time and reigning Italian silver medalists (2007-10). They placed sixth at this year's European Championships and tenth at last year's World Championships.
They'll do well because: They're an up-and-coming team with extremely strong technical skills. Their lifts and footwork earn them a lot of points. They had an unexpectedly successful early season, coming in second at both of their Grand Prix events and qualifying for the prestigious Grand Prix Final. They have great on-ice chemistry.
They might have trouble because: They've raised the difficulty of their programs in preparation for the Olympics, but they often look like they've bitten off more than they can chew: their artistry has suffered, and they sometimes look like they're struggling. They've been "up-and-coming" for several years now without really breaking through, and they're in danger of just settling in the middle.
Fun facts: Cappellini and Lanotte used to be an off-ice couple, but they started skating together after they broke up. They're both pretty strong-willed and admit to getting into arguments with each other in training - but she claims that he's the high-strung one who usually starts it.
My opinion: They used to be fiery and fun to watch, but I feel like they've sacrificed a lot in their quest to stay technically competitive with other teams. Their free dance in particular doesn't really seem to suit their personalities or their type of chemistry. I don't think they'll win a medal, but I think they're good enough for the top ten.
Crone & Poirier
Original dance at the 2010 Canadian National Championships, to "En Malaga" by Roger Scannura
Names: Vanessa Crone and Paul Poirier
Country: Canada
Ages: 19 & 18
Free dance at the 2010 Canadian National Champiopnships, to "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen
Past competitive highlights: Two-time and reigning Canadian silver medalists (2009-10). 2008 World Junior silver medalists. They were 12th at last year's World Championships.
They'll do well because: They're an exuberant young team that has shot ahead of more seasoned competitors very quickly. Their level of difficulty is quite high in both footwork and lifts. They're cute and charismatic, and they've figured how to make their unconventional chemistry an asset.
They might have trouble because: Their skating is still rough and raw around the edges, and they often make difficult things look difficult. They have a connection with each other, but their chemistry isn't sexy. Since they're so young, the judges might decide it's not their turn to win yet.
Fun facts: Poirier went to the same high school as Patrick Chan. Like so many male figure skaters, he was originally supposed to play hockey, but his parents signed him up for figure skating lessons because he kept trying to spin around on the dots on the ice. Crone and Poirier skated together in pairs as well but focused on ice dance because they jump in opposite directions.
My opinion: Some Canadian fans are upset that they edged out other teams for this Olympic spot, but I'm very pleased. International judges seem to like these two a lot - although probably not enough to put them anywhere near medal contention this early in their career. I think they have an excellent shot at the podium in 2014. For now, I'll just enjoy watching them, since they're an entertaining team with a unique style.
Davis & White
Original dance at the 2010 US National Championships, to soundtracks from Bunty Aur Bably by Shankar Mahadevan, Ehsaan Noorani, and Loy Mendonsa and Devdas by Sameer and Nusret Badr
Names: Meryl Davis and Charlie White
Country: USA
Ages: 23 & 22
Free dance at the 2010 US National Championships, to The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Past competitive highlights: Two-time and reigning US national champions (2009-10); silver in 2008 and bronze in 2007. 2009 Four Continents champions. 2009 Grand Prix Final champions. They were fourth at the World Championships last year.
They'll do well because: They have won every competition they've entered this year and beaten most of their major rivals in the process. No other team can match their speed or the intricacy and beauty of their footwork. They're great actors who really get into the character of their programs. Their original dance is such a triumph that it's become a viral video on YouTube.
They might have trouble because: They're relatively young, and despite their accomplishments throughout the season, they might not get past old-fashioned ice dance judges who think it's not their turn yet. White sometimes gets overexcited and makes crazy mistakes.
Fun facts: Davis and White have been skating together since 1997, when they were nine and ten years old. Both skaters are part-time students at the University of Michigan, where Davis is a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority. White had to quit playing competitive hockey when he broke his ankle in 2004, ending his and Davis's season and pissing her off.
My opinion: Even if I didn't get a little hot just looking at them, I would be rooting for them. They have risen through this sport at a shocking rate, and now there is no question in my mind that they are the best ice dancers in the world. I believe they will be able to prove that on Olympic ice, and I hope the judges reward them for their brilliance rather than deciding someone else "deserves" it more.
Delobel & Schoenfelder
Original dance at the 2008 World Championships, to a Breton gavotte; their music for this season is a French can can.
Names: Isabelle Delobel & Olivier Schoenfelder
Country: France
Ages: 31 & 32
Free dance at the 2008 Grand Prix Final, to"The Great Gig in the Sky" by Pink Floyd; this season's program is to "La Quête" by Jacques Brel
Past competitive highlights: 2008 World champions. 2007 European champions; silver in 2008 and bronze in 2005. Six-time French national champions (2003-8). 2008 Grand Prix Final champions. They placed fourth at the 2006 Olympics and 16th in 2002.
They'll do well because: They are smart, seasoned competitors who interpret music extremely well. They connect to each other well emotionally and do a great job of telling a story in their programs. They've never won an Olympic medal and know this is their last chance, so they'll be skating their hearts out.
They might have trouble because: While their technical content has been astonishing in the past, recent serious injuries and their age may have limited their ability to perform like they used to. They had to sit out half of last season while Schoenfelder recovered from surgery on his shoulder, and then Delobel got pregnant, sidelining them for the summer and fall. This will be their first competition after that hiatus, which is very risky. Since they were World champions two years ago, the judges might feel that their turn for victory has come and gone.
Fun facts: Both Delobel and Schoenfelder are married to non-skaters, although Delobel's husband is a former Olympic skiier. Schoenfelder and his wife have a three-year-old son, and Delobel's new baby is four months old. Delobel has an identical twin sister, Veronique, who also used to be a competitive ice dancer.
My opinion: I really have no idea - since this team hasn't competed at all in a year, nobody knows what they're going to look like. I have a lot of respect for this team but don't love their skating style, which is a little too theatrical and high concept for me. Other skaters are favored to win, but this team has everything it takes to earn a medal. Or, at least, they did two years ago.
Domnina & Shabalin
Compulsory dance at the 2010 European Championships, to the Tango Romantica
Names: Oksana Domnina and Maxim Shabalin
Country: Russia
Ages: 25 & 28
Free dance at the 2010 European Championships, to the soundtracks from The Double Life of Véronique by Zbigniew Preisner and Requiem for a Dream by Clint Mansell
Past competitive highlights: 2009 World champions. Two-time and reigning European champions (2008, 2010); silver in 2007. 2003 World Junior champions. Three-time and reigning Russian champions (2005, 2007, 2010); silver in 2004 and 2006; bronze in 2003. 2007 Grand Prix Final champions. They placed 9th at the 2006 Olympics.
They'll do well because: Some people, especially in Russia, think they've "earned" Olympic gold, and the judges seem to love them, awarding them very high scores. They have extraordinary edge quality, the best in the sport right now, and their precision and speed in the compulsory dance often gives them a big lead that other teams can't surmount.
They might have trouble because: Their original and free dances are weak this year - if it weren't for the compulsory dance, they would have lost Euros to the Italians this year. Their original dance has also drawn fire for seeming racist, although they say they've changed the costumes. (This is why I chose a picture from their compulsory dance to illustrate this section.) Shabalin is suffering from a chronic knee injury that severely limits him.
Fun facts: Domnina and Shabalin train in suburban Philadelphia, sharing coaches with Americans Belbin and Agosto and Italians Faiella and Scali. Both have complained pretty openly about her hatred for living and training in the United States. Domnina misses her family and city life; Shabalin just can't stand the coffee.
My opinion: I think they peaked two or three years ago, and every subsequent victory has been a gift from the judges. I am far from alone in this opinion, and many of those who hold it, myself included, actually enjoy their skating. In a just and fair world, they will not make the podium, but who ever said ice dance was fair?
Faiella & Scali
Original dance at the 2010 European Championships, to "Tamurriata Nera" and "Tarantella Pizzicata," traditional Italian dances
Names: Federica Faiella and Massimo Scali
Country: Italy
Ages: 29 & 30
Free dance at the 2010 European Championships, to The Immigrants by Nino Rota
Past competitive highlights: Two-time and reigning European silver medalists (2009-10). Seven-time and reigning Italian national champions. They placed eighth at last year's World Championships, 13th at the 2006 Olympics, and 18th at the 2002 Olympics.
They'll do well because: They're an innovative team with some of the most dramatic lifts in ice dance, including a "reverse lift" in which she lifts him. Their programs tend to be creative and even funny, with lots of drama and character. Although they narrowly lost Euros this year, they were first in both the original dance and the free dance.
They might have trouble because: They aren't as strong in the compulsory dance as other teams, and sometimes (as in this year's Euros) they can't make up the distance. Their skating style can look unpolished, and sometimes their programs go so far over the top that the judges don't understand them.
Fun facts: Unlike their training mates, Domnina and Shabalin, these two love training in the United States, and Scali in particular plans to stay in America even after he retires from skating. The team are very close (platonic) friends and tend to laugh and share inside jokes during interviews.
My opinion: I enjoy this team a lot more off the ice than on it. Despite their focus on "keeping the dance in ice dance," I think a lot of their skating looks labored and clunky. They freely admit that other teams are better than them, and it sounds like they're just going to the Olympics to skate and have fun. But sometimes it's just that attitude that brings a dark horse team to the podium.
Kerr & Kerr
Original dance at the 2009 Grand Prix Final, to "I've Been Everywhere" by Johnny Cash
Names: Sinead Kerr and John Kerr
Country: Great Britain
Ages: 31 & 29
Free dance at the 2010 European Championships, to "Krwlng" by Linkin Park
Past competitive highlights: Seven-time and reigning British national champions. 2009 European bronze medalists. They placed 7th at last year's World Championships and 10th at the 2006 Olympics.
They'll do well because: They have some of the most crowd-pleasing programs in ice dance and a really fun presence on the ice. Their lifts are exciting and creative. Unlike many brother-sister teams, who seem a little creepy, the Kerrs relate to each other naturally on the ice.
They might have trouble because: Their skating skills are not as strong as some of the other teams; they skate with less speed and with shallower edges. They've been knocking on the door of the top tier for a long time, but they seem to have stood still while other teams have surpassed them.
Fun facts: The Kerrs frequently skate to popular artists like Muse and Enigma, so many of their best programs aren't available on YouTube. They're Scottish and very proud of it! Both skaters have worked as models and actors.
My opinion: This team won't place particularly high, although you'll probably see them within the top ten. They're notable mostly because they are one of the most entertaining teams in the sport, much more concerned with convincing the audience than the judges. Like them, I don't really care about their scores - I care that they'll put on a fabulous show.
Khokhlova & Novitski
Original dance at the 2010 European Championships, to "Vdol po Piterskoi," a traditional Russian dance
Names: Jana Khokhlova and Sergei Novitski
Country: Russia
Ages: 24 & 28
Free dance at the 2010 European Championships, to The Firebird by Igor Stravinsky
Past competitive highlights: 2009 European champions; bronze in 2008 and 2010. 2008 World bronze medalists; they were 6th last year. Two-time Russian national champions (2008-9); silver in 2007; bronze in 2005 and 2006. They placed 12th at the 2006 Olympics.
They'll do well because: They are a quirky, dynamic team with a new free dance that plays to their oddball on-ice personalities. Khokhlova is astonishingly poised and flexible, and their lifts are tremendous.
They might have trouble because: They have been struggling through a terrible season, plagued by injuries, illness, and bickering. They had to change their free dance mid-season because it was too conservative to work for them, so they haven't had many opportunities to test drive their Firebird program.
Fun facts: Move over, Plushenko - Sergei Novitski has the most ridiculous mullet in figure skating. Both skaters had a rocky road to elite-level ice dance: Khokhlova spent years in a children's ice ballet, while Novitski tried for singles but couldn't get his triple jumps. They both suffered through several bad partnerships before finding each other and seemed to come out of nowhere once they did.
My opinion: I love watching this team, and I'd love to see them show up to the Olympics refreshed and healthy. Unfortunately, with Novitski's knee problems, I'm not keeping my hopes up too high. Most of their successes have come because other teams have withdrawn or made mistakes. If this Olympics is a dance splatfest like the last one, Khokhlova and Novitski could contort and monster-face their way to a medal, but otherwise they'll be lucky to squeak into the top five.
Péchalat & Bourzat
Original dance at the 2010 European Championships, to an American country music medley
Names: Nathalie Péchalat and Fabian Bourzat
Country: France
Ages: 26 & 29
Free dance at the 2010 European Championships, to "Kika" by Ezekiel and the soundtrack to Requiem for a Dream by Clint Mansell
Past competitive highlights: 2009 French national champions; three-time national silver medalists and two-time bronze medalists. They have placed fourth at the past two European Championships (2009-2010). They were fifth at last year's World Championships and 18th at the 2006 Olympics.
They'll do well because: They are fast and lyrical skaters with an intense style that ice dance judges tend to like. Their programs are unusual and memorable, with creative choreography and difficult lifts.
They might have trouble because: Their programs tend to cross the line between innovative and just plain bizarre. Sometimes judges mark down what they don't understand. They're a good team but not a great one, as evidenced by the fact that they've never won a senior-level international competition. Their footwork and lifts often look sloppy and even painful.
Fun facts: Two years ago, Péchalat and Bourzat left their longtime French coaches to study with legendary Russian coach Alexander Zhulin - kind of a slap in the face to the French skating administration. Because their rink is largely booked with hockey games, they were practicing from midnight to 5 AM for a while. They say that their free dance was inspired by Tim Burton movies.
My opinion: I am not a big fan of this team; I think their programs are so conceptual they're just ridiculous, and I find their skating ugly and unpolished, even now that Zhulin is purportedly helping them fix that. I think they'll land in the lower reaches of the top ten, probably at the expense of other teams more pleasurable to watch.
Samuelson & Bates
Original dance at the 2010 US National Championships, to "Long Time Gone" and "White Trash Wedding" by The Dixie Chicks
Names: Emily Samuelson and Evan Bates
Country: USA
Ages: 19 & 20
Free dance at the 2010 US National Championships, to "Canto Della Terra" by Francesco Sartori
Past competitive highlights: 2008 World Junior champions. 2010 US National bronze medalists; silver in 2009; junior national champions in 2007. They placed 11th at last year's World Championships.
They'll do well because: They are terrific technical skaters, especially in the depth of their edges and the intricacy and power of their lifts. Although they're a young team, they skate with a lot of maturity and polish. Their original dance is crowd-pleasing, and they skate it wonderfully.
They might have trouble because: This is another team who might suffer from their youth - both because the judges might think it's not their turn and because they seem to get overwhelmed in the free dance at major competitions. They also might have to make up ground after their compulsory dance; other teams are stronger in that.
Fun facts: Samuelson was a finalist in a Miss Teen Michigan pageant as a teenager and would like to be on Survivor someday. Both skaters are part-time students at the University of Michigan. Bates lives in a house on campus with Charlie White and two other male figure skaters. One of his goals at the Olympics is to pose for a picture with every member of the Detroit Red Wings who is competing in the Games.
My opinion: I watch these two and am convinced that US ice dance has a shining future ahead of it. I really enjoy Bates's dorky attention-whore on-ice persona, and I think they've figured out how to make their personalities and bodies work for them on the ice. I really hope they'll make the top 10 and think they can do it even in this crowded field. Even if they don't, they'll be fun to watch.
Virtue & Moir
Original dance at the 2010 Canadian National Championships, to "Farrulas" by Pepe Romero
Names: Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir
Country: Canada
Ages: 20 & 22
Free dance at the 2009 Grand Prix Final, to Symphony No. 5 by Gustav Mahler
Past competitive highlights: 2008 World silver medalists and 2009 World bronze medalists. Three-time and reigning Canadian national champions (2008-10); silver in 2007 and bronze in 2006. 2008 Four Continents champions. 2006 World Junior champions.
They'll do well because: They're among the best ice dancers in the world: a well-rounded and well-matched team, and extremely powerful skaters. His strength and speed in their lifts is astonishing, as is their ability to maintain unison in blindingly fast footwork. They'll have the home team advantage, and their recent history of World medals might convince the judges that despite their youth, now is their time.
They might have trouble because: It seems like Davis and White, who have always been a step behind them in the past, have now surged ahead of them. They've lost their fresh, youthful quality awfully fast - they skate older than they are. (That might actually be an asset.) They lost most of the 2008-9 season because Tessa was injured, and they still haven't regained all their momentum.
Fun facts: Like several of the current top teams, they've been skating together since they were in grade school; they were paired together in 1997 and have never skated with another partner. Both are the youngest children in large families, and Moir is from a family in which everyone skates: his older brothers play hockey, and two of his cousins are championship-level synchronized skaters. Earlier in the season, their free dance featured a lift in which Virtue balanced on Moir's back, nicknamed the Canada Goose, but it turned out to break the rules for ice dance lifts, so they will not be performing it at the Olympics. You bet they're bitter about that.
My opinion: I was madly in love with this team when they were coming up from juniors, but I've cooled to them in the past couple of years. I feel like their emotional connection isn't as strong as it used to be, and their skating has gotten a lot more conservative and less interesting. But I love their original dance, and their technique is pretty breathtaking. You'll almost definitely see them on the podium, and they're strong contenders for gold. But I'd rather see the USA run away with this one.