Everyone is entitled to their opinion. I sense some negativity here which is unfortunate. I really do hope Canada pulls it together but how can someone not notice objectively Canada is in trouble or translation in a rebuilding state and don't have a lot of consistent or solid contenders. Where as you say for sure France has a very solid ice dance gold medal threat and at least a medal in pairs.
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Skater boy : we have discussed this before : you are very welcome to comment current events. You do so in your own style and I often agree with some of your descriptions and impressions of actual events. You have a great sense of fashion
The negativity you get here is simply when you keep harping on THE FUTURE.... when you speak about right now, you can back up with facts... when you speak about the future, you often see the glass half empty... actually you see it empty, which is what is exhausting for me (and perhaps others as you noticed that many replied to your posts).
For instance, right now, NO COUNTRY is able to talk about the Olympic team events. NOBODY is clearly set on that : for instance James and Cipres have said they are taking it one year at a time, so France could lose their pairs team in 4 years, just the way Canada could lose Keegan who is hoping to get to the games but not yet committed to that.
So let's agree here : there is no point to talk about the team event. Yes, if it were next week, Canada would be in troubles. But it is not next week, not even next year. And think about it this way : if it were next week, maybe some people who are "retired" or "skipping" may have included it in their planning. I will give you a clear example : Patrick had had enough in the early fall. He lost motivation, skipped Nebelhorn, had issues in Detroit with Marina, more issues at SCI and wanted to retire.... but oh wait... there was an Olympic team event coming up and it gave him the motivation he needed to train and compete, and earn points for his teams contributing to becoming Olympic Champion. If there hadn't been a team event, just singles, I am pretty sure Patrick would not have gone to the games ( i am speculating but when reading all his interviews, I am pretty sure that my between the lines reading is close to reality)
So this is my suggestion : give credit to the athletes, coaches and federations : NOBODY cares about this year... it's rebuilding for everyone... Some change partners, some retire, some change coaches... some try new jumps, new styles etc.... but the aim is NOT to perform at GPF or even worlds... the aim is further down the road. Let's wait and see how everyone gets organized...
