- Joined
- Nov 8, 2008
I'd just like to point out that the judging panel for the Ladies was: KOR TPE CHN JPN MEX USA CAN AUS. Four Asian judges vs one US judge. Sorry, I don't see any politics in this judging, it was all about the SKATING. Ashley was clean and dynamic, while Mao was slow and cautious, did a 3a<, had a hand down on the lutz, and doubled the salchow.
The whole competition is inflated as usual and the tech caller is not very strict. There are no 'e' calls on Flip or Lutz, a lot of jumps that are on border line get away with no < for all the skaters. But I think in the end Ashley is rightful winner. I think the podium placement is right and good for all skaters. Mao knows she needs to work hard on her jumps and hopefully everything will be according to the plan. Ashley will have more comfident heading to world where she will face off again with Mao, Kostner and Akiko. I think all four will be podium contender.