- Joined
- Jan 11, 2008
Valentina Marchei and Ondrej Hotarek- What I love about this pair is the unity of style they create even though they seem somewhat in juxtaposition to each other. Like using contrasting colors to make a more interesting design. You can just feel their unity of purpose. Valentina has such sass and fire (like her good friend Ashley Wagner!), and Ondrej somehow complements and completes those qualities, by being a dramatic presence. Like a bass voice provides support for a good soprano/melody. Their movements are sharp, precise ... and they really packed in the content for last year's FS, to great effect in the first minute.
Aliona Savchenko and Bruno Massot - In addition to their amazing technical talent, I feel that together they have a softer and more integrated approach to being a pair than I expected, especially from her. Last year's FS was a skate where one really felt their artistry and emotion emerging. I really want to see what comes next.
Cheng Peng and Yang Jin - I love their personality on the ice, which I didn't so much notice when they skated with other people. They bring out something special in each other. They can do romantic and soulful, and they do playful and humorous equally well. One thing I love about them is the way their throw jumps just seem to come out of nowhere. The preparation for their elements is so well integrated into the choreography, and so smoothly and speedily executed. The Chinese pairs do this so well, and it's Lori's choreography too, but it takes great technique and working together to execute it so seamlessly.
Alexa Knierim and Chris Knierim - Last year's programs (all newlywed music!) really brought out their connection on the ice. They don't always showcase that particular quality, so I'm really interested to see whether or not their musical choices and choreography will continue in that direction. And I can't go without mentioning their twist. Whether it's a triple or a quadruple, it's just divine, snappy and high. Plus, it looks like he just tosses her in the air like it comes out of nowhere!
Ashley Cain and Timothy LeDuc- It's their ice presence, and their unique look and style among current pairs that shows such potential. Their long, gorgeous lines match, they jump well and their technique is well planned to be harmonious. Love their SBS 3Loop and their 2A-1L-3S. The fact that they both really perform has them standing out in terms of US Pairs. They have a great connection on the ice. Now that they've been to Nina Mozer's camp, I'm really looking forward to seeing how they evolve going forward, since they made such huge strides last season. I know they weren't included in the preview's top pairs, but I think they could be a break-out pair (again!) this year.
Nice summary Skylark - and you mentioned pairs I'm really fond of. : ) I especially agree with you about Cain / LeDuc. I really love their look on the ice. I'm hoping for more success on the jumping front for them because I like that they're doing something different and challenging. I'm nervous and excited for them this season. I hope they can build on their great start!