Miki Ando performs new freeskate at Stars, Stripes and Skates

Here's Japanese superstar Miki Ando performing her freeskate to Rome and Marco Polo at the Stars, Stripes and Skates benefit on September 26. The two-time Japanese national champion, 2007 World champion and 2009 World bronze medalist took time before the show to chat with me about preparations for this Olympic year and her programs this season. She couldn't talk too much about the short but she said she was excited about the long because she was telling the story of a woman's life and what she was feeling inside. She also thought that last year's freeskate was not really story-centered so she was looking forward to playing a character that the audience could relate to. Miki's Grand Prix assignments are the Rostelecom Cup and the NHK Trophy but she said her focus must also be on her nationals in December, since that's when the Olympic team is selected. Is there any doubt that she will be on the Japanese national team?

Comments

[Atsuko]

That was a great interview, because she's talking about her determination and how she thinks about her new programs in her own words, which her fans will be happy to hear. And finally you didn't ask a Japanese skater for a comment for her Japanese fans. Oh,I miss it! :)

[Kara]

This must be her first English interview. She should do more of them she will get thousands of American fans. She is charming. Thanks Lifeskate!

[Atko]

Hi Susan, I finally translated this interview into my blog. Thank you for the information.

[Maria Galvez]

Good luck to Ando Miki!being the 30th to perform will be a big pressure,just pray,and God will be with you!!!you'll make it!Also good luck to Asada Mao!!!Good luck Japanese scaters!!!!