As I’m sure you could have guessed the Grand Prix Final did not really go as well as I would have liked it to. After a decent short program, I just simply did not give the performance I had hoped to in the long. Really it was one to forget!

I could have easily stood on the podium had I given a performance that showed off all that I am capable of. It’s really frustrating not to have that happen. I finished fifth, but it was the poor performance that bothers me more than the final standings.

There we many factors that contributed in this situation. There is fatigue and jet lag due to the time difference, but there is also the will to be there.

I arrived in Japan only three days after Skate Canada and it was almost like it didn’t really interest me to get back to competition so soon.

I know that I can do better than that, even without being in top shape. When you miss the first two jumps in your program, it’s not really your lack of training or poor condition that is the cause. It’s mental.

At the same time, even without being perfect, I could have skated a lot better. My disappointment comes from that fact.

I think the lesson I learned from this experience was that it is time for me to come back to Quebec, rest up and recharge.

Once I returned home from Japan, I took some time off and I did not do any major practising. Instead, I decided not to accept any touring contracts during the holiday season, but to spend time with my family. I also cancelled a Christmas tour in Germany that I was scheduled to participate in.

I have also adjusted my training regiment from now until the Olympic Games in Vancouver. I will spend more of my time on the ice then at the gym. While training in the gym is important, only a small percent, 20-30%, of it can be transferred onto the ice. I will now be doing many more full run-throughs on the ice. Hopefully this week, my muscle memory will improve and it can be something I can rely on during competitions.

Last week, my choreographer Shae-Lynn Bourne came down to Saint-Leonard to help me with my programs. We made some changes to my short program that I mentioned in my last blog. We really just want the program to be more musical. The ultimate goal is to give me more time to perform my spins properly, which will allow me to obtain the highest levels possible.

I am now concentrating on the Canadian Championships in early January in London, Ontario. Until then, wishing you all a very Happy Holidays!