Originally posted 4/18/2000. As we all get ready to head off to AN, I thought this would be a good time to resurrect this post. Maybe another first-timer will follow it up when they get back ...
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I just got back from my first trip to Adult Nationals, and I was so
impressed with Lake Placid and my fellow skaters. Overall, it was a
wonderful experience: supportive spectators, lots of ice time, and
friendly competitors. On the plane coming home, I jotted down a few
thoughts to share. All are written in the spirit of the event, so don't
try to read TOO much into them.

What I Learned At My First Adult Nationals
1. People who place ahead of you in your group are clearly sandbagging. :-)
2. People who place behind you in your group skate at the appropriate level.
3. Average looking skaters rarely get into the "highlights" video.
4. Skaters who train full time and hire choreograhers almost always place better than those who don't.
5. If you wear a really glitzy costume, you'd better have the skating skills to match it.
6. Club jackets are cool!
7. Doctors should NEVER attend adult pairs events as spectators unless they've recently increased malpractice insurance. The events are as scary as you might think.
8. Interpretive events are either REALLY good or REALLY bad.
9. Adult skaters really do move on the ice differently from people who skated as kids.
10. A good, professional cut of music is worth paying a few extra dollars for.
11. Don't put complicated spins or footwork in your program unless you've seen a video of yourself doing them and they look okay. Don't trust your friends - see for yourself.
12. Adults look silly with hair and body glitter.
13. There are an almost infinite number of ways to "put up" long hair.
14. "Presentation" is actually easier in an arena than in a practice rink.
15. There are very few prima donnas in adult skating.
16. Twelve pairs of ice dancers are too many on one warm-up session.
17. Ten hours under fluorescent arena lights will give you a splitting headache.
18. Don't drastically increase the amount of time you spend on the ice prior to your events. Weak points (e.g., knees or back) will start to complain.
19. Crowds watching competitions are most supportive at lower level events. Support is directly proportional to the skater's need for encouragement.
20. God is saving a special place in Heaven for judges who endure hour after hour of Bronze level freeskates. It is right next to the place in Heaven for the coaches who coach the Bronze level freeskaters.
21. Men should not skate with change in their pockets.

Oh gosh I remember #21!!!!

Oh, yes! I remember this list! I was wondering when it would come out here!

__________________
Cheers,
jazzpants

11-04-2006: Shredded "Pre-Bronze FS for Life" Club Membership card!!!
Silver Moves is the next "Mission Impossible"
(Dare I try for Championship Adult Gold someday???)

Thank you for the support, you guys!!!

And this is probably the most appropriate thread in which to wish all of you - every skater who is going - a fabulous, wonderful week. Sharp blades and great ice. May each and every one of you skate your absolute best, and come off the ice really, really pleased with yourself.

Have a fantastic time, and give my love to all my friends who will be there, especially Bill P, and say I'm looking forward to seeing everybody at the Mountain Cup in a few weeks.

__________________
Mrs Redboots
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I love my computer because my friends live in it!
Ice dancers have lovely big curves!

Thanks, Annabel!

Thanks Annabel!!! Your post gave me chills. I can't wait!

One of these years I WILL get to the Mountain Cup!

Thanks Annabel!
I'm looking forward to getting up there and looking at that beautiful lake, seeing friends, and skating!

Thanks Annabel! Will see you at MC!
Becca
PS How many legs are you bringing this year?

Caveat: Unless they look like they're still in high school.

I love this list...I may have to e-mail it to a couple of AN newbies!

Erin
who is still asked "What high school do you go to?" I'm turning 30 next year!!!

Good luck everyone!!! Especially everyone I met at Easterns - you guys rock! I can't wait until I am old enough to go to ANs - 2006 baby!

Sk8 Gr8 everyone! Wish I could be there to cheer you all on! Have a terrific time in Lake Placid!

To all competitors at AN this week I'm wishing GOOD LUCK!
Most important of all, like skaternum and I always say:

DON'T SUCK!

Sk8Gr8 everyone!!!!!! I too, wish I could be there to cheer you on and toss lots of beanies!!!!!! Bring home lots of medals and memories.

Just want to wish all you guys good luck... and...
GO KICK SOME ICE BUTTS!!!

__________________
Cheers,
jazzpants

11-04-2006: Shredded "Pre-Bronze FS for Life" Club Membership card!!!
Silver Moves is the next "Mission Impossible"
(Dare I try for Championship Adult Gold someday???)

Thank you for the support, you guys!!!

Yeah, hope we don't suck!!

Can we have a link for results for adult Nationals from someone out there?
Thanks,

Thanks everyone!

I leave for the airport in 5 minutes! I can't wait to get there!

PattyP

YAY! I wish I were going and can't wait until next year!

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Champagne in 2005, 2008, 2009 - who's next out of the pre-bronze club...?

Wang chung!

Only 2, but lots of warts! (And that is all I am going to say about it!).

See you soon....

__________________
Mrs Redboots
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I love my computer because my friends live in it!
Ice dancers have lovely big curves!