A Trip Down Memory Lane #3: Grand Prix

[synnabun]

The Grand Prix series has just ended for 2006. I thought it would be interesting to discuss Michelle's involvement in the GP circuit since it's inception in 1998.

How important do you think the GP series really is? What are the advantages and disadvantages of competing?
What are your favorite performances by Michelle (or anyone!)?

Also, here's some food for thought. There'd be very little figure skating coverage/competitions for the upper levels if the GP series did not exist. If the GP series was not around, what events would stay and what events would go?

[Lisa Seye]

First thought regarding GP series. It gets the skaters in front of the judges so they can see who is bringing what to the ice as well as who is improving by Worlds. However, it is hard on the skaters who might be scheduled in events close together.
Someone said in another thread that MK only won GP final once?? Not sure if true, but if so, then it seems irrelevant to her wins at Worlds.
On one note, it is good to give the skaters some international experience so when they get to the World stage or Olympics, they will not feel too overwhelmed (hopefully).

[WorldsGreatestMK]

The good thing is that you have a chance to see Michelle...when she's there. And it gives us the oppurtunity to see a program progress to the end of the season's World Champs, Nat'ls. :D

[Lisa Seye]

Second thoughts about the GP: the ISu needs to change the system by which they skaters make the final.
Favs of mine are any in which MK skated. I like Salome at the beginning of the season when she wowed everyone for the first time. :-)

[IceSkate98]

I also believe the ISU needs to change the system regarding the CoP. There were too many injuries this year regarding the GP final. There was an article last year where Johnny's coach discussed the skaters not having enough rest time or breaks in between their jumps, spins and footwork.

I think the GP series is important and should continue, but there needs to be a change in the CoP system hopefully reducing the vast amount of injuries involved among the skaters.