2010-11 U.S.

FIGURE SKATING FANTASY

CHALLENGE
Axels, Loops, and Spins
2010 NHK Trophy Choices
Ladies A: Mao Asada Ladies B: Kanako Murakami Ladies C: Diane Szmiett

Mens A: Jeremy Abbott Mens B: Yuzuru Hanyu Mens C: Ross Miner

Pairs A: Pang and Tong Pairs B: Takahashi and Tran Pairs C: Zhang and Wang

Dance A: Davis and White Dance B: Weaver and Poje Dance C: Mysliveckova and Novak

Analysis: The women for me was pretty easy. Despite Mao Asada's troubles at the Japan Open, I have a
hard time imagining her not winning. The person who I feel has the best chance of besting her is her
teammate Murakami that's why I picked her as well. I picked Diane Szmiett because I like her style...one
of those head vs. heart situations. The men was a complete toss-up between Jeremy and Daisuke but many
have smartly pointed out he often isn't hot in the early season so I went with Abbott. Men's B was tough
but I think the young Japanese up and comer will prevail here, but Ten, van der Perren, Amodio, and
Sawyer could all surprise me I think...kind of crossed my fingers. I'm hoping Ross' natural performability
makes my C choice a success. Pairs seemed pretty cut and dry...I'll be shocked if I don't get that one near
dead on. The only wiggle I think is with my B choice, if Yankowskas and Coughlin are on they might
sneak up. Dance was easy too except for B. I think it will be very close between the Canadians and the
Russians.