Star Chinese pair Pang Qing and Tong Jian overwhelmed rivals yesterday to take the NHK Trophy in Japan, a win that catapults them to the elite Grand Prix Final in South Korea next month.
“There were a few minor mistakes, but overall it was our best performance of this season,” Tong said after his pair’s seemingly flawless free skating.
“The most serious issue that we have faced so far in the season is our leg injuries. I am glad that we came out to Japan, without withdrawing from the competition, and were given such a high score,” he said.
PHOTO: AP
Skating to a collection of tango tunes in their free skating, the 2006 world champions leapt higher, performed more powerful and acrobatic jumps and showcased faster and more stable spins than their rivals, wowing the crowd packing the National Yoyogi Stadium.
Tong said the pair would consult medical advisers over the upcoming competition schedule, but said he hoped they would take part in as many meets as possible.
Second place went to John Baldwin and Rena Inoue from the USA, followed by Canadians Jessica Dube and Bryce Davison.
The NHK Trophy in Tokyo is the last in the six-round qualifying series for the elite Grand Prix Final.
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