 Archway Anecdotes #3 - Competition BeginsU.S. Figure Skating Correspondent It's only Sunday morning, so how can I be tired already?
Notes from Sunday, Jan 08
Sunday
6:00 a.m.
Alarm goes off, and it’s only been four and a half hours. When I get dressed, I notice my sweater matches my eyes. Unfortunately, my sweater is a red turtleneck.
7:10 a.m.
I’m on the bus to go to Savvis for junior dance practice. Very proud of myself for making it, even if I’m a little late. The skaters from the third practice group are on the bus with me. It starts pulling away, but we are missing Evan Bates. His partner, Emily Samuelson, is on the cell phone, giving play by play of Evan’s progress through the hotel. After many of us scream at the bus driver to stop, he does. Evan and family board and we are off.
7:20 a.m.
It is so cold in Savvis that I actually saw a polar bear. Now either I’m now on Lost, or this is he coldest arena in history. Most likely the latter. I actually am struggling to type because I can’t feel my hands. Should have brought my coat.
8:30 a.m.
Some of the dancers from the first practice group come over to look at their photos on my laptop. Katrina Reyes notes she needs to smile more, and Clare Farrell tries to figure out if painting eyes on her eyelids will make it look like her eyes are open. Daphne is running around taking off-ice photos.
9:03 a.m.
I think a penguin may feel quite at home here. Seriously cold.
9:10 a.m.
Wireless Internet works! Yay! Family Arena had it, too. Modern technology rocks! (Web editor's note: Except when you are launching an event microsite).
10:05 a.m.
Hop the bus from Savvis to Family Arena. During the ride I go through my photos, check out the scenery and get pumped for the competition to begin.
10:56 a.m.
Arrive at Family. So that means 51 minutes to go from arena to arena when there is no traffic.
11:28 a.m.
Novice men are at the gate. It’s time!
1:00 p.m.
I’m down in the mixed zone waiting for Brandon Mroz who slipped away after the draw. The local TV station is here to interview hometown skater. That's Brandon in the photo, getting props from his brother after his skate.
2:46 p.m.
My article is in with a little time to chill (literally, being that it’s still cold here, but not as arctic as Savvis) and get ready for novice ladies. No hot tea in the hospitality room. Sometimes I wish I drank coffee. Will have to get by on adrenaline.
3:06 p.m.
Time for novice ladies. Later! v
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