Thinking about Joe's question, let me first say that I don't hope Sasha goes to Nationals, BUT let me explain why. I think she is extraordinary and has amazing presence on ice that I, at least, can't take my eyes off. But, I don't really think Sasha looks competitive at the moment, and although she might have it in her to work for it, I would just hate to see her off the top of the podium (so for the sake of my nerves, I hope she doesn't risk it --- I also would rather see her go out on a high note too). I though her R&J last year was really amazing, too bad of course that she fell, but it was an amazing program - I'd like to remember that is all.
Anyway, let's say she does go to Nats, wins or at least medals, and goes to
Worlds - AND let's say I'm still alive at this point (LOL), then I would have to say that no, I don't think she can compete with the top at this point (and it doesn't yet look like Weir can either). MAYBE this will be just what she needs to get the fire to push through two programs cleanly, but maybe the nerves of knowing she has to will get to her as well. Again, for the sake of MY nerves, I'd rather see her perform exhibitions where she seems so comfortable and happy and we can all just enjoy. Of course, the ice is slippery and if say, all the Japenese and a few others make mistakes, that does open the door for Sasha but its exactly the IFS that make me say, no, I don't think she looks competitive right now. And yes, I'm thinking really only about the jumps (even thought she seemed slow at marshalls, i bet she could pick up some speed, spin well, and have good step work to compete - it's the jumps i'm doubtful about). Perhaps MM or someone else could figure out how she can get the most points from 5 triples -- maybe seeing the point possiblity here I would say, ok, she has a great shot, but I just don't see her doing more than 5 triples, and even then she might still two foot or even fall.
:agree:
