ISU Four Continents Figure Skating Championships 2008
Overview over the top contenders
2007 World Champion Miki Ando (JPN) headlines the Ladies field at the ISU Four Continents Championships and in an interesting rematch will meet compatriot and reigning World silver medallist Mao Asada. Ando achieved a seasonal best of 161.89 at Skate America, while Asada got 191.59 at the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final. Ando didn’t qualify for the ISU Grand Prix Final, where Asada finished second, but then beat her rival in the Free Skating at the Japanese Nationals in December. Both skaters are competing for the first time at Four Continents. Canadian Champion and reigning Four Continents bronze medallist Joannie Rochette is aiming for another podium finish in Goyang City (seasons best 169.91 points). World Junior bronze medallist Ashley Wagner (USA) debutes at the Four Continents Championships and is looking to challenge the leaders (seasons best 158.63 points). Other to watch include Mira Leung (CAN/seasons best 144.57), Chyntia Phaneuf (CAN/129.17), Yan Liu (CHN/126.14), Fumie Suguri (JPN/148.15) and Beatrisa Liang (USA/ 134.60).
World bronze medallist Yu-Na Kim (KOR) withdrew from the event, citing a hip injury.