Here are Cathy and Chris Reed, the two-time Japanese national champions in ice dance, at the 2009 Stars, Stripes and Skates benefit in Danbury, Connecticut. The brother and sister team began representing Japan during the 2006-2007 season (they have dual citizenship in Japan and the U.S.) and Cathy told me that the last two seasons have been challenging with Chris' three(!) knee surgeries. But, the two are back stronger than ever and very excited about their programs this season. Their original dance is to a Japanese folk melody (see above, LOVE the gorgeous costumes) and they even traveled to New York to work with a Japanese dance instructor on the art of their dance. Their free program is to the soundtrack to Angels and Demons and you'll have to see the interview to see which one is the angel and which one plays the demon.
Chris also said that since his surgeries, he has been doing a lot of off-ice training, including boxing and weights. He believed that incorporating these kinds of workouts have improved his strength and interestingly, maturity, in his skating. The duo has a busy season ahead, starting with the NHK Trophy, then Four Continents, then their first Olympics, and then Worlds. They were also excited that little sister Allison qualified for the Olympics as well and will represent Georgia with ice dance partner Otar Japaridze. Best of luck to the entire Reed family and we'll be watching!
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