Canadians Piper Gilles/Paul Poirier triumphed on home ice, claiming their second Skate Canada title of their career. Charlene Guignard/Marco Fabbri of Italy danced to the silver medal while Spain’s Olivia Smart/Adrian Diaz secured the bronze, their first ISU Grand Prix medal.
Piper Gilles and Paul Poirer (CAN) © International Skating Union (ISU)
Dancing to “The Long and Winding Road” by Paul McCartney in a specially arranged version, Gilles/Poirier impressed with a fluid performance and difficult lifts. The Canadian Champions collected a level four for the lifts, combination spin and twizzles. The diagonal step sequence was rated a level two and the one-foot step sequence was a level two for her and a level one for him. The 2021 World bronze medalists scored 125.32 points for the Free Dance and totaled 210.97 points, a season’s best score.
“We are very proud of what we did today. It wasn't our best skate, but again we were trying to work on our nerves. We are not used to skating last in the Free Dance and being first after the Short Program,” Gilles said. “It is kind of nice that we are not skating perfect right now in the beginning of the season. It definitely gives us room to grow.”
Guignard/Fabbri’s touching dance to “Atonement” was highlighted by beautiful lifts and smooth footwork. The 2019 European bronze medalists collected a level four for the combination spin, lifts and her twizzles. The one-foot step sequence garnered a level one only. The Italian Champions netted 121.23 points and accumulated 200.05 points overall.
Charlene Guignard and Marco Fabbri of Italy © International Skating Union (ISU)
“We are very proud of what we did. It was not super easy with the jet lag for us. But it was better than yesterday and the scores were more rewarding,” Fabbri said. “For our next competitions, we will work on every single aspect, especially on the Rhythm Dance, but also this Free Dance could be better.”
Smart/Diaz put out a dynamic performance to “The Mask of Zorro”, picking up a level four for three elements. The Spaniards scored 115.96 points and set a new personal best for their total score with 192.93 points.
“We are very happy to take our first Grand Prix medal and keep the ball rolling,” Smart told the press. “It was a good performance, but we left a few points on the table technically.”
Olivia Smart and Adrian Diaz of Spain © International Skating Union (ISU)
Caroline Green/Michael Parsons (USA) placed fourth with an avant-garde dance to “Eso Concerto” and “The Mind on the (Re) Wind” (186.51 points). Diana Davis/Gleb Smolkin (RUS) moved up from seventh to fifth with their dance to “Moulin Rouge” (180.57 points). Majorie Lajoie/Zachary Lagha (CAN) finished sixth (179.07 points).
For full results, click here.
