icenetwork.com

Grant Hochstein relates the happenings from Skate Canada. (Jacque Tiegs)

By Grant Hochstein, special to icenetwork.com

(10/31/2010) - Grant Hochstein's blog from behind-the-scenes at Skate Canada.

Sunday, Oct. 31
The competition here at Skate Canada isn't over because the exhibition is still going on, but I would have to say that this was such an amazing experience! I enjoyed every moment of it and learned so much.

I was lucky enough to win the fan vote to get into the exhibition, and I had a BLAST! The Canadian fans are amazing and treat all the athletes like they are one of their own. I want to thank all the fans at this competition -- Canadian, American and everyone else -- for making this competition so memorable.

My long program went very well, especially considering my short program wasn't exactly as good I would have liked. I landed six triples and came ever so close to landing my triple Axel. I felt very under control and business-like. It didn't have the same emotion that my Finlandia long program had, but I felt very committed and free.

This competition has given me so many great memories, and I am so thankful to have been given this opportunity. Now, it's back to work...sectionals is in 11 days!

Talk to you later,
Grant

Saturday, Oct. 30
Sooo, bummer about that short program, huh?

In all actuality, I didn't feel like I skated THAT badly. I mean, yes, I should have done the triple-triple, but I got off the ice feeling like I did a decent job. And I do still feel that way. I'm not beating myself up over it because it is a privilege to even be here. Every step I am taking at this competition is a learning experience, and I can only gain from being here. Everything is positive, and I will be a better skater because of it.

I had a really solid practice today and feel really confident heading into my long. My mom and sister are here as are Lindsay's parents, so I'm really enjoying sharing this experience with them. I'm going to have breakfast with them and then might explore a little bit of Kingston before heading back here for an awesome competition. I'm going to stay to watch the ladies long tonight, so I will be able to give a report on that either later tonight or tomorrow.

Okay, off to breakfast. Talk to you all later!

Grant

PS. Anybody see that wicked awesome triple Axel I did on warm-up?!? ;)

Friday, Oct. 29
Hello from Skate Canada!

I can't believe I'm here at my first senior Grand Prix. It's a dream come true, and I can't wait for my event to start.

I'm here to watch the ladies short program this morning. Of course, my laptop decided to quit working since I knew I would need it to blog for this competition. Thankfully, there are computers available for us to use backstage.

I'm really excited to watch the ladies event. Alissa Czisny and I used to train together at St. Clair Shores, and I still skate with her once a week when I go to DSC for choreography. So, of course, I'm rooting for her but also for my other teammates Alexe Gilles and Agnes Zawadzki.

Unfortunately, I'm not going to be able to watch the pairs event, but I did see them practice this morning, and both teams are looking strong.

The event is getting ready to start, so I'm going to have to cut this blog entry a little short. Talk to you all soon. Keep your fingers crossed for some strong results for Team USA!

Grant