- Joined
- Oct 24, 2014
I'm sorry if you feel so offended by some who are using Chock/Bates here as a points of comparision to Shibutanis and put them in negative light/assessment.
But the reality of the outcome produced in US Nationals is that it is inevitable to have this kind of comparision. I am not a fan of Madison and Evan myself, but I can't deny - they can be entertaining for some who like this kind of style/expression on ice. I can't deny they do have skills (they won't be able to high placements without them). But in my opinion, this year is a step back for them comparing to Shibutanis 3 steps forward, let's face it - 3 or more versions of their SD, constant deliberating, switching back and forth is never good to get a solid confidence for the ID segment where you can't win the whole competition, but you can lose it big time. And a constant re-working Rachmaninoff FD - this is a sign they are striving for perfection there, but since the beginning of the season they don't look fully comfortable with it in my eyes.
Last year - a very original, eye-catching SD (with all level 4s at Worlds) and a keeper FD to 'American in Paris' theme, totally their alley. I don't have to be a fan to appreciate good, suitable programs and good execution (if presented). This year - like above, constant switching, changing and still some troubles (I still think that they should have thought about changing their FD instead of SD - SD to Dark Eyes would be maybe difficult at the beginning, but so was their Paso Doble and we know how Worlds looked like...). Moreover - I still cannot see the confidence which was there last season in both technical execution and overall presentation of their programs.
And looking at Shibutanis this season - I see a truly different duo comparing to last season. 2 strong programs, more 'agressive', confident approach, taking a new choreographer on board for their competition program - it all paid off despite of Nepela disappointment at the beginning of the season. And that's the thing which makes me appreciate them even more - they also did have problems and mixed feedback of their programs at the beginning of the season (so many others, like Weaver/Poje), but they really stepped it up since then.
And this difference between 2 teams has shown clearly at US Nationals - hence the whole discussion here including both teams actually. There is really no escape from comparing them head-to-head while they're competing at 'home' event, US Nationals. And this time, with almost tied SD results, FD told the story there.
And the last thing about one team taking another one's program and chances to get good with it - in my opinion this is really pointless dispute and empty argument. For me, regarding American teams - until this very season - Chock/Bates was more stylish team, with characteristic flare for musically, entertaining programs whereas Shibutanis were doing some willy-nilly non-descript programs with no sense at all (at least FDs imo). Then, Coldplay FD emerged and it changed a lot of things - I see now that Shibutanis could do wonders with that modern/contemporary style, even be the best in it.
I do not begrudge Shibs winning the title. What is bothersome ... irksome is the outrageous negativity towards C/B. It wasn't their fault that they were favored then by the judges. Certainly, not their fault that they outshone the Shibs in the previous competitions. Comparisons are great but these should be discussed with respect and courtesy. I don't read much C/B's posts denouncing Shibs' skills and 'persons', have you? Anyway, despite C/B's supposed mediocre skating skills, these won them several awards and they did so in just a few years skating together (they teamed up in mid 2011). Well, the season is not over ... as the saying goes_ "it ain't over till the fat lady sings" .... There's 4CC and the Worlds .... I'm sure the Shibs will win more accolade for their heartwarming FD but who knows what mindsets will triumph by then.