UK Dancing on Ice competition

[samba]

Hi there

Any Brits see the Dancing on Ice competition last night?www.dancingonice.com/main.php

Glad to see they got rid of the time waster straight away in the first round, but I did feel sorry for her partner.

I must say I was impressed with the others especially when I saw the hard boots they were put into, not exactly a beginners boot.

Well at this early stage its hard to tell who will win but so far the best one for me was Sean Wilson (the guy from Coronation Street), it was nice to see him doing a variety of steps on his own, also watch out for Gaynor Faye she really was "beautifull".

Cheers
Grace

[batikat]

I agree with you about Sean. I dont watch Corrie so I only vaguely knew who he was but for a guy who really hadn't skated before I thought he did great and he has obviously been bitten by the skating bug as he is the one who had put in the extra hours of practice time on his own I think and it showed, as while he obviously needs a lot of polish, he was fast and looked confident.

John Barrowman was good but had the advantage of having skated as a youngster in Canada and being a natural showman with musical ability. I was impressed at the faith Stefan's partner showed in him; allowing him to lift her like that. I was pleased Tamara went - what on earth possessed her to go out in that awful outfit 8O :oops: but her partner was so cute I didn't want him to go :lol:

As in the ballroom dance version, the girls seemed to rely on their partners a lot more - you dont have to be able to skate very well at all to be able to do lifts as a girl -that's a matter of confidence, timing and body strength though Bonnie's headbanger lift looked impressive.

For me the test of their skating comes in their footwork and turns and I hope we get to see more of this and less reliance on flashy lifts but I doubt it somehow.

I also wish the people involved in the publicity, the ITV 2 show and website had bothered to learn a little about skating instead of trotting out the same misrepresentative cliches. Why for instance is there a reference on the website to 'triple axels' in this quote: 'But the problem that seems to have blighted our stars more than anything else is motion sickness. No, not from zooming around the rink at a quite frantic pace. But from being spun on the spot in your typical triple axel.' :roll: :giveup:

I thought TV types were supposed to do research before blithely spouting rubbish! They haven't even bothered to work out the difference between Ice dance and freeskating. Ah well I guess anythgin that promotes ice skating in this country is a good thing on the whole - just hope anyone who tries to take it up doesnt' get too put off when they find that far from dancing with a partner to trendy tunes they will more likely be slogging round the rink alone to the dulcet tones of the ISU's Dutch Waltz and Rhythm Blues etc :?? ;)

[samba]

John Barrowman was good but had the advantage of having skated as a youngster in Canada and being a natural showman with musical ability. And he's gorgeous, not that I noticed...


As in the ballroom dance version, the girls seemed to rely on their partners a lot more - you dont have to be able to skate very well at all to be able to do lifts as a girl -that's a matter of confidence, timing and body strength though Bonnie's headbanger lift looked impressive.

Yes the men have a much more difficult job, and Bonnie is very brave.


For me the test of their skating comes in their footwork and turns and I hope we get to see more of this and less reliance on flashy lifts but I doubt it somehow.
Ditto.


I also wish the people involved in the publicity, the ITV 2 show and website had bothered to learn a little about skating instead of trotting out the same misrepresentative cliches. Why for instance is there a reference on the website to 'triple axels' in this quote: 'But the problem that seems to have blighted our stars more than anything else is motion sickness. No, not from zooming around the rink at a quite frantic pace. But from being spun on the spot in your typical triple axel.' :roll: :giveup:

In her dreams!!


I thought TV types were supposed to do research before blithely spouting rubbish! They haven't even bothered to work out the difference between Ice dance and freeskating. Ah well I guess anythgin that promotes ice skating in this country is a good thing on the whole - just hope anyone who tries to take it up doesnt' get too put off when they find that far from dancing with a partner to trendy tunes they will more likely be slogging round the rink alone to the dulcet tones of the ISU's Dutch Waltz and Rhythm Blues etc :?? ;)
In the end my husband told me to be quiet because I was chuntering on so much he was missing it, well I cant help it if I know everything, ha ha.

Did you notice it was repeated this morning around 11 am, so I guess if we miss it next week we can see it on Sunday.

Cheers
Grace

[batikat]

Thanks for that info about the repeat. I was wondering how I was going to persuade my hubby to record the one on the 28th (which I'll be at with other BISC club members - yeah!) and now I can record it myself.

I was so pleased John was good as I'd be so disappointed if he wasnt' there when we were at the filming. He is rather nice........ :D though sadly I believe ice queen would be fairly accurate for him! :lol:

[Mrs Redboots]

And he's gorgeous, not that I noticed...He's even gorgeouser in the flesh.....

We are going to try to persuade some of them to take up ice-dance properly, as a hobby, and come to dance club and so on, when they are free to do so.

Mind you, if I had partners like theirs, I could skate that well, too.

[samba]

He's even gorgeouser in the flesh.....
I'm so jealous, no-one came to our rink.


We are going to try to persuade some of them to take up ice-dance properly, as a hobby, and come to dance club and so on, when they are free to do so.

Dont be greedy now Annabel, send some over here, one would do, ie John.


Mind you, if I had partners like theirs, I could skate that well, too.

Yeh its easy to skate with someone who knows what they are doing, its when they let go that the problem starts.

I got an e-mail from my dance coach, she said the phone hasnt stopped ringing since Saturday, loads of new business!!

Cheers
Grace

[batikat]

Yes Annabel please send some our way. If Grace is having John then I bagsy Sean!!!!

Wouldnt' that be fun!! Hopefully the show might persuade some guys to give it a go. If any of them go to your dance club I'm coming too!!!!! :lol:

[samba]

Anyone see this last night? I missed the results:cry: I think it should be on later to-day but need to be put out of my missery.

Thanks
Grace

[7Cities]

I have been watching this too.
In case some people are interested, you can apply for free tickets to see the final shows HERE (http://www.applausestore.com/Site/) and then registering and going to "show schedule".

I think this is going to get young people back in to skating. It seems to be quite popular and is great to watch.
I'm following it each week.

[samba]

I think this is going to get young people back in to skating. It seems to be quite popular and is great to watch.
I'm following it each week.

Thanks 7 Cities, I'm sure it will, my coach said her phone hasnt stopped ringing. Must go, the results are about to be shown.

[batikat]

I have been watching this too.
In case some people are interested, you can apply for free tickets to see the final shows HERE (http://www.applausestore.com/Site/) and then registering and going to "show schedule".



There's not a lot of point trying to get tickets now - they will be long gone. Our skating club had tickets booked and confirmed before Christmas and then they emailed last week to say they were withdrawing them due to 'a set change and expanded production guest list' In other words I guess they mean genuine fans are getting pushed aside so that other celebs and their friends can jump on the bandwagon now the show's proved to be popular. I noticed this week they lingered on a few celebs in the audience - bet they wouldnt have been there if the show was a ratings flop.

[NickiT]

There's not a lot of point trying to get tickets now - they will be long gone. Our skating club had tickets booked and confirmed before Christmas and then they emailed last week to say they were withdrawing them due to 'a set change and expanded production guest list' In other words I guess they mean genuine fans are getting pushed aside so that other celebs and their friends can jump on the bandwagon now the show's proved to be popular. I noticed this week they lingered on a few celebs in the audience - bet they wouldnt have been there if the show was a ratings flop.

It's extremely unfair giving that our club's tickets were "secured" a month before there was any publicity at all. A shame for the 50 members of our club who support skating week in, week out lose out to a load of "VIPs" who probably have no interest in the sport. Still that's life. I'll just have to enjoy it from my front room instead!

Nicki

[samba]

I'm sooo glad Andy is out, how condesending "I promise you I won't drop you sweetheart" I wouldn't trust him to give me a donkey ride off the ice let alone a dance lift on the ice, he's much better doing what he does best, eating chocolate and leaving the work to someone else.

This has really been a great programme so far geting the knock-outs right so far but I guess its going to get harder as time goes on, but at least the final decision is down to the judges so personalities dont rule.

John Barrowman was his usual georgous self, oh did he skate as well? and David Seaman looked solid as a rock in those lifts, Bonnie has such a strong back for good positions in the lifts I wish I had it. Nice to see they were given a compulsory step as they were in danger of doing just programmes of lifts.

Kelly get some tights on you will catch a death!!

Can't wait for the next round.

Cheers
Grace

[NickiT]

So what did everyone think of last night's episode? I must admit I was hoping that Kelly would be voted off. To be fair she did skate much better than last week but I really don't like her style. I was disappointed that Andrea got voted off, but it was such a difficult choice between her and Stefan. I really didn't want to lose either of them. I've been following Bonnie closely and think she's great but I daresay, she really didn't do that much actual skating last night, she spent more time being lifted and I can't help but feel there is some bias in the marks given to her. She looks great but she would do given her dance background. As for Dave Seaman, he did really well and I think the low marks were unjustified. I'm glad he wasn't voted off and hopefully his partner's shoulder will be better soon.

Nicki

[samba]

I only saw it this morning because I was out last night, they had it on but I was dodging heads etc, so it was good to see the re-run this morning.

I agree it was a very hard choice, dont really want any of them to go now but I think they made the right decision in Andrea although she really did skate the best that she has done so far and their seemed to be some, dare I say "electriity" between them or was it just that the eye contact was more convincing this time.

Once again I enjoyed watching Bonnie, although I agree with Nicki, not a lot of skating there, but wonderful to watch and I wish I had her bum.

Kelly needs to stop copying me and stooping so much, she has a lot of guts but just doesnt seem as convincing as the others. Well at least she had some tights on this week, but oh those awful boot covers!! my pet hate, especially black ones, they make the smallest of feet look huge.

Sean was great as usual, a real skater. Batikat - your deal sounds good to me, now all we have to do is convince them.

Oh did I mention John Barrowman, so he fell, he's allowed, I would forgive him most things.

Once again a great show, my dance coach is getting more customers through it and lets hope all the rinks benefit from it espeically Alexandra Palace which I understand is under threat at the moment, long may it live.:bow:

Well I guess I had better take some of my own criticism on board and get on down.

Cheers
Grace

[olgdancer]

Hello Everyone

Just wanted to say a big hello , it was so nice to sit and read all your comments about the show , and especially about my 'celebrity' partner , John Barrowman. My name is Olga Sharutenko , and i had the pleasure of touring australia and new zealand during 2004 as a member of the Imperial Ice Stars , and performed the role of the Lilac Fairy in Sleeping Beauty on Ice. The show is still on tour , at the moment it is in Europe. You can see the details on www.imperialicestars.com .

Our director , Tony Mercer , allowed Sergei Malishev and myself to take part in the TV show , although unfortunately , Sergei and his partner were voted off on Week one and Sergei has now gone back to our tour.

You can find a few more details on my own website www.olgasharutenko.com .

For anyone who enjoyed our Imperial Ice Stars tour , i can let you know that we are coming back to Australia and New Zealand with a new show that will start touring there in June 06. I believe we will open the tour in Sydney in June and will tour there until end september.

Once again , it was great to read your site.

Lots of Love

Olga Sharutenko

[batikat]

Hello Olga and a big welcome to skating forums.

I skate at Bracknell (UK) and we were originally expecting (hoping!) that some of the rehearsals for 'Dancing on Ice' would be at our rink but sadly for us it didnt' happen. We were even more disappointed when our tickets to see the show last Saturday were cancelled on us. My daughter particularly likes John as he is in Dr Who.

I think John is fantastic and he and Sean would be most welcome to visit us adult skaters :D at Bracknell rink anytime (only an hour from London!). As adult skaters (who learnt to skate as adults), we really appreciate what they are all going through and have been very impressed - though having had a former Olympic competitor (94 Olympics - Polish ice dance team) as a coach until recently, I know how much help a good partner can give:lol: And you ladies are all being so trusting of the 'celebrity' men with all those lifts - wow!

I saw 'Sleeping Beauty on Ice' at Woking last year and you were in the cast list but I dont know whether it was you or Elena we actually saw - either way it was a fabulous show. My daughter modelled some of her skating tricks on those of the messenger (Catalabutte(?)) I'm also going to see the Imperial Ice Stars again at Oxford soon and am looking forward to that.

Please pass on our best wishes to John for his success in the show (and if he wants to give a namecheck to the members of Bracknell Ice Skating Club that'd be great - especially for Seren Tudor, my daughter - she'd be so thrilled - but not to worry if it's not possible).

Also good luck to Sean who is doing great for someone who'd not skated before (though I reckon they've all had more ice time and lessons in the last few months than I've had in 5 years:lol: )

Thank-you for helping to make Saturday nights such a pleasure recently.

Gail

[samba]

Hi Olga

Wow this is great!!:bow: I nearly fell off my chair when I read your entry, how kind of you to do so.

I am totally addicted to the show and I’m sure you know who my favourite is by now, although I am a little embarrassed at what I said about John:oops: , never mind I’m sure he’s used to it. Anyway you will certainly get an extra vote or two from me this week, now its personal.

You look really great out there, I would love to see you skating with Sergei on the programme, do I sense this may happen? Lets hope they do this show again and he gets another chance. Unfortunately I havent seen any of your shows but I will certainly be looking out for them now.

Anyway must go, best of luck and don’t forget, if you get tired of Bracknell there’s always Peterborough.

Cheers
Grace

[batikat]

oops
just realised it is the 'Russian All stars' I am going to see in Oxford, so I guess it won't be the same people. I shall definitely be looking out for the next Imperial Ice stars tour though, as 'Sleeping Beauty' was so brilliant (especially the Lilac Fairy!!:D )

[Mrs Redboots]

Hi, Olga.

We all miss you at Streatham, do hope you'll be back soon! Loving the show, and am seriously jealous of John's back cross-rolls, which are better than mine.....

[Sk8bob]

Forget everyone else!

Bonnie is the only one you should vote for!!

She is one of the few celebraties that have NEVER skated before, unlike John Barrowman, David Seaman etc....

Everytime I watch her skate she gives me goosebumps. She is a natural performer and she could teach a lot of our national competitors a thing or two!

John annoys the hell out of me. He finishes ever routine with a cheesy punch to the air! If you watch his routines all he does are forward and backward crossovers and countless mohawks...nothing else....boring!!!

My prediction is Bonnie and David in the final, then Bonnie to win!!!!!!!

[batikat]

I'm not sure what you have been watching but I don't recall seeing Bonnie doing very much skating. Dance she does very well - but of course she would, since she's been dancing for some 30 odd years. Therefore since this an ice dance competition, to complain that someone has skated before while thinking it fine that someone has danced before is highly unfair.

Bonnie is great when she is being lifted by her partner and of course she is good at the performing aspect since that is her job in the real world. Of course several of the others are actors/performers too but I don't think any of the others are professional dancers like Bonnie is.

That is why I continue to be impressed by Sean and also Stefan who are neither skaters nor dancers.

I'm not knocking Bonnie - she is doing great but then so is John and while he may have skated a little before it is a whole different thing to ice dancing with a partner and he quite obviously hadn't skated that much, or he'd be a lot better than he is!

I'm sure Bonnie could teach people a lot about dance but she still spends more time with her feet off the ground than on it in her performances. The guys have to be able to not only skate themselves but to be steady enough and confident enough to lift their partner. That isn't easy.

Besides, John's gorgeous and my vote stays with him and Sean.

[olgdancer]

If it were possible , i think every one of the celebrities should be voted for and the programme be extended. They are all trying so hard to master the beautiful art of Ice Skating , which we all love so much , in the full view of 10million people a week. I say well done to every single one of them.

Could i also let you know , that when John arrived to the ice , he had not skated for 25 years!!!!. His ice skating experience had been as a 10/11 year old boy on a frozen lake near his house , and not has been widely reported , as an ice hockey player. And despite what you may see , John is not very confident on ice , and gets extremely nervous , hence , his huge relief to have completed his programme , without collapsing in a heap.

They should all be congratulated , that is my humble opinion.

Keep watching and supporting them please , they are all giving much needed support and attention to our beloved sport.

Lots of Love


Olga S

[batikat]

If it were possible , i think every one of the celebrities should be voted for and the programme be extended. They are all trying so hard to master the beautiful art of Ice Skating , which we all love so much , in the full view of 10million people a week. I say well done to every single one of them.


I totally agree Olga - it would have been great if they could all skate every week and if it had to be a competition then the judges scores and public votes for each week could be combined in some way to get an overall winner at the end of the series. I don't like the voting off process, as each of them brings something unique and exciting and I love watching how much they are enjoying their skating and see them go through the same emotions, thrills and frustrations as I do while learning.

Sadly we have to choose and everyone is bound to have their favourites but they all certainly deserve votes.

I've heard that Pam won't be skating this week - I do hope her injury heals fast

Good Luck to you and all the others for Saturday! (but especially you and John and Sean and Marika - who used to practice with her husband at our rink sometimes, which was lovely to watch).

[Sk8bob]

I recommend that you watch Bonnie's programs. In her routines she is only off the ice for 10-15 secs during the program, the rest of the time she is SKATING! Fact - I have timed it! At least she is doing something as some celebraties end up standing on the spot for a good 10-15 secs doing nothing.

Because Bonnie's lifts are so spectacular they become the most memorable part of the program which makes you think that all she is doing is being lifted. Bonnie caters for everyone, she gives the general public the lifts they like to see and she also shows the skating aficionados that she has real skating ability.

I agree that Marika and Sean are great too. He has a fantastic knee bend, good job too as he has to match Marika's! Unfortunately he doesn't have the charisma and showmanship that some other celebraties have.

Everyone needs to look beyond the glitz and glamour and concentrate on the skating. Then you will be able to see who can skate and who is faking it.

Good bye Kelly! It's your time to go now.....

[batikat]

Everyone needs to look beyond the glitz and glamour and concentrate on the skating. Then you will be able to see who can skate and who is faking it.



As a skater myself that is exactly what I am doing. Bonnie is certainly skating more than she was in the first programme which is good and they are all coming along really well but the guys have to skate ALL the time - they don't have the advantage of 'air time' and I personally find that more impressive than someone of obvious and well known dance ability being spectacularly lifted. I don't expect you to agree on that but I dont like to be told who to vote for - tell us who you're voting for, no problem (as you have!!!!):lol: that is your opinion and you are entitled to it but I am also entitled to mine!

I'm curious to know, given your detailed critique of Johns skating, which skating moves you think you have seen Bonnie doing that are, in your opinon, different or better? (This is a serious question as I shall be watching even closer this week!:) I have seen her do more toe steps but I find these relatively easy myself, so I'm more impressed by use of edges. However I think toe steps are this weeks required element so that should make it interesting! For the real test of skating ability though, it would be great to see them skate without their skate partners - that would show who can skate and who is being 'held up':lol: I believe that was the reason Stefan stayed last week i.e. that the judges felt he had more individual skating ability and was less reliant on a partner.

[samba]

I agree Batikat it would be interesting to see them skate on their own, that would certainly sort out the men from the boys so to speak but unfortunately it wouldn’t be very entertaining at this level but it would most certainly settle the argument.

I still think its anybody’s game at the moment they are all so very good for the short time they have been skating, I have skated for many years and the one time I tried doing even just a semi-lift where my partner basically leaned on me I ended up pulling a muscle with the effort of holding the edge and staying on my feet, so lets not under-estimate the men, they may not be natural prancers but they HAVE to be good on their feet, yes the women have to be brave but I would trust any one of the male professionals in that line up.

That being said I adore Bonnie, always have, always will, she has a wonderful presence on and off the ice, but I would go for John and Sean, jokes aside I’m old enough to be their mum so it’s not just looks I’m going for here, but they are gorgeous.

Olga you are right they should all be congratulated, including yourselves.

WELL DONE AND GOOD LUCK TO YOU ALL:bow: :bow: :bow:

I cant wait to see you tonight.

Cheers
Grace

[dooobedooo]

Nobody's mentioned David Seaman's skating ...

His step sequence was by far the best last week - he actually stuck to the rules, with a step sequence including a drag (lunge) at the beginning and end of the step sequence - and he even included a back drag at the end, which is quite hard as you can catch your skate blade - nobody else attempted this.

Poor Pam O'Connor - I feel so sorry for those top lady skaters being obliged into dangerous lifts from male skaters who can barely stand up. And full marks to Marika Humphries for sticking to traditional values of ice dance - edges, skating quality and unison.

Have to say my fave celebrity is Stefan ...

[samba]

and David Seaman looked solid as a rock in those lifts.
Cheers
Grace

There you go!!
He is the only non professional skater in the programme that I would feel totally safe with lifting me, and yes what a fabulous programme Sean and Marika did, made me want to cry, awh.

Cheers
Grace

[batikat]

I agree David Seamans skating is good - I was impressed by the back drag. Last time I atttempted that in a competition, I caught my blade and fell. The only reason I am not supporting him so much this time is that he already won the BBC's Christmas ice dance show (when I voted for him many many times!!!) so I'd like someone different to win this time. He did have an advantage of having been competent enough to play ice hockey had he wanted to and of course the training he had for the previous show. He's not a natural dancer though, so it is interesting to see how that side is developing.

I think he will be skating with a different partner tonight as Pam is still injured. I saw the photo in the paper of their tumble and it did look bad. Hope Pam will be OK. They do all seem to be attempting some very technical and difficult lifts which seems a bit over ambitious and dangerous when the basic skating is not totally solid.

[Mrs Redboots]

I'm enjoying watching David - I'm typing this with one eye on the programme, but it's a commercial break - as we actually have his sort of problems! Not really looking like dancers, but being more-or-less able to skate.

Although having said that, I hate, hate, hate both drags and especially toe steps, so I'm glad I'm not them this week!

And why on earth is Phillip Schofield wearing a black tie? If he's in mourning, should he be there - and if he isn't, why the black tie? Most inappopriate.

[samba]

Olga And John We Love You, what a great job you both did, so sorry your'e out, hope to see you again sooon.:bow: :bow: :bow: :bow:


Loads of love

Grace

[batikat]

What an absolute travesty of justice. I am devastated that John and Olga are out. Kelly's was by far the weakest performance and I couldn't believe it when she was voted to be safe - can't help thinking that Jason's comments keep winning her the sympathy vote. Tonight's result also proves what I thought all along - that Stefan keeps being woefully undermarked as he has produced some great performances too and neither of them deserved to go tonight.

Olga - you and John were both fantastic again tonight. Please tell John that if he is looking for a skating pantomime to perform in he'd be most welcome at Bracknell Ice rinks annual panto!!! Not sure what it will be this year but there was some talk of it being 'Sleeping Beauty'!! (though obviously not quite to the Imperial Ice Stars standard.) :)

I think that's why I dont like this style of competition as there is too much of the voting for people who are not the best for whatever reason and sometimes the best ones end up at the bottom because people don't vote for them as they think the judges high scores will carry competitors through.

Anyway I think the programme has lost it's best couple and a lot of it's sparkle has gone for me.

[2loop2loop]

Oh No!!! We were all shouting at the tv in my house!

I thought John was a cert to be in at least until the final. After the skate-off I felt sure that John and Olga would be through and I couldn't believe it when Robin put up his vote for Stefan.

I thought there were far weaker performances than either John or Stefan's tonight and that neither particularly deserved to be in the skate-off. All I can think is that the viewers thought that John would be sure to get through and so gave their votes to weaker skaters that they wanted to keep in.

Olga, thanks for stopping by skatingforums to say hi to all of us here. We've enjoyed watching you and we'll look forward to seeing you again next year for series two!!!:bow: :bow: :bow:

[7Cities]

Coool, Olga posts here..... Nice one !

I too was shouting at my TV.
I thought John and Olga did a much better performance tonight and deserved to stay.
I laughed at the final judge who said Stefan was more technical. It was John and Olga that had the most complez moves and were the most amazing.
I thought they would have been in the final. They certainly deserved to be.

Kelly Holmes was one of the ones that should have gone tonight or Stefan in my opinion.

[Sk8bob]

Neither John or Stefan deserved to be in the skate off!

But in the rules in the show is says that all previous performances should be discounted and only the final performance should be marked. John was much weaker. He seemed to have lost his confidence this week and this showed in his performance. He had a weak program in both choreography and elements.

If you were to mark the couples on their past performance Stefan would not have stood a chance. But Stefan pulled it out the bag when it mattered.

As for the fantastic Bonnie NO-ONE can say that she cannot skate after todays routine. Her skating skills just keep on getting better and better....I just wish all of my skating pupils were as good as her!

[samba]

Well its the morning after and I'm feeling really depressed that we lost John and Olga:cry: lets hope we see them again some time soon.

I agree that neither John or Stephan deserved to be in the skate off, I know how Stephan felt because the one time I did dance I started on the wrong foot and it put me out for the whole thing.

Well done to Gaynor for at least attempting a step sequence unaided and congratulations to Bonnie for her toe steps.

What a total gentleman Todd Sands is, so tolerant and patient.

Robin - as much as I love your skating I thought it was really unfair of you to expect Sean to be able to do what World Champions skaters are capable of.

What a fantastic group number, it took my breath away.:bow: :bow: :bow:

Well I'm off to have a bacon buttie as a consolation prize.

[Mrs Redboots]

Another household where we were wailing at the TV!

Olga, come back to Streatham soon, now that you're out - and bring John with you, he could do with learning to dance properly now. Dance Club on Thursday evenings at 7:00 pm.....

The trouble was, the judges did exactly what they were asked to do, and judged the skaters on the skate-off, and, it has to be said, Stefan was better in that. I was going, "Oh no, oh no, they're going to have to save Stefan, he really skated better!"

John said at the beginning of the show that last week's fall had put him off, and, I'm afraid, it showed. And Stefan's footwork really was good in the skate-off.

I don't know if any of you saw the sequel on ITV2 - we did watch, and Robin explained that they have to push their buttons to register their votes before any of them say anything, so although it looked as though he had the casting vote, in fact, he had cast his vote even before Nicky spoke. And the entire cast, or whatever you call them, was seriously in shock! Wasn't everybody?

But for me, much though I mind that John has gone out, the skater of the day had to be Gaynor. Sure, she wasn't brilliant - but she has so improved! She was skating, she wasn't just being hauled round by her partner - and she looked infinitely more confident than she has before.

And yes, the other women have improved too - Bonnie does have a major advantage over the others, of course, in that she looks so good even when being hauled round the ice on two feet (which, to be fair, she isn't being, now!). That's what xxx years of dance does for you, of course!

And I agree, the show number at the beginning was fantastic.

[NickiT]

I cannot believe John and Olga were voted off last night. That's absolutely crazy. The one I think should have gone was Kelly. She's certainly not there for her skating ability. Not that she hasn't improved because she has, but her ability as a skater is a lot lower than all the others. The problem is that the public are voting for who they like rather than who can skate the best. John was right up there near the top in my opinion and I cannot believe that just one week where he looked slightly tentative, he got voted out! Of course it is getting more difficult given that all of the celebrities are improving so much. I really like Bonnie but I feel that the judges are a little biased towards her. Yes she looks fantastic on the ice but she is an experienced dancer and is very petite, so yes, she does look good. I daresay she hasn't been doing as much skating of late though. I've seen some of the others do more technical stuff. However I suspect she's going to come out the over all winner, unless we have another shock vote like last night!

Nicki

[Ice_skater]

I can't believe John and Olga got voted off! I wanted them to win!

[Mrs Redboots]

I can't believe John and Olga got voted off! I wanted them to win!Didn't we all?! 8O:cry:

[olgdancer]

Thank you , Thank You , Thank you....Your messages are beginning to help me feel so much better.

It is now tuesday evening , and i still cant believe what happened on saturday night , there was absolutely no logic to it.

I am absolutely devastated for John , as he did not deserve what happened to him. Being honest , i agreed with the skate off result , stefan was excellant in his routine , but the simple fact was , that John should not have been in the skate-off . I guess everybody thought we were safe after finishing third in the judges voting and forgot to vote for John in an effort to save others.

I can tell you all , that John had worked so hard on his skating , and was trying with all his willpower to try to master our beloved ice skating.

All he had done in his routine on saturday , was to calm down the 'showman' , as he had been asked by the judges , and then that was turned against him by the judges. Yes , he was nervous on saturday , but no more than normal , he was always nervous before every performance.

Anyway , someone had to lose on saturday , and it had to be John and myself , i just didnt feel after his performance , it was John's turn to go out.

All i can tell you , was that he was a great partner and so lovely to work with , if you ever have a chance to see him perform , take the opportunity , check him out on www.Johnbarrowman.com , he has some very nice photos from the show.

In the meantime , i will return to the Imperial Ice Stars tour of Sleeping Beauty on Ice , which is continuing in Germany . I will let you know of the plans for our new show , Swan Lake , as soon as i know anything precise.

Thanks for all the support and your lovely messages. If you want to have a look at my website , you can see some of the 'Dancing on Ice' photos , and in a few days time , the 'Dancing on Ice' performances of John and myself.

Watch out for 'Team Barrowtenko' , performing again in the future.


Lots of Love


Olga S www.olgasharutenko.com

[samba]

Hi Olga

I'm so glad you put another entry in, we were all so sad for you :cry: I certainly voted for you and I'm sure the others that supported you on this website would have but I think you are right this happens some times where the public assume that the good ones are safe and vote for the ones that they think are in danger, you are both still number one in my book.

You say that John is a great partner, well I think you are also, to have taken him from a stumbly to a swan was fantastic and you have supported him mentally at a time when you probably needed someone to support you also.

Best of luck for the future and we look forward to seeing 'Team Barrowtenko' again. Well I must get ready for work, I will read the websites when I get there.

Hugs and kisses to both of you
Grace
xxxx

[Anthony]

Well I don't know much about skating, but I think the 2 worst p0erformances on Saturday were David's and Kelly's, however, everybody had done great. Some of the stuff they are doing is baffeling to me, I get as advanced as forward and backwards(kinda) crssovers and a double spin but with my skates staying in contact with the ground. Olga and John were excellent and should still be in the show.

Nobody has really mentioned stefan and christina, lets hope they aren't in the bottom 2 this week cos I think they're great, Christina always looks so emotional when they are in the skate-off, bless her, they try sooo hard and there routines look good, I hope they aren't in the skate-off this week. Oh yeah, did I mention... Christina's fitttt :D:D

I hope we do see Olga and John again, they made a great partnership :)

[dooobedooo]

My, oh my, oh my .... 8O 8O 8O

DAME KELLY HOLMES wearing .....

..... OVERBOOT TIGHTS !!!!!
..... A COLGATE GRIN !!!!!!!
..... A DEMURE AND SELF-EFFACING MODESTY ON THE PLINTH !!!!!

Eeeeeek. Please pick me up off the floor. She's not turning into a skater, is she????

:mrgreen:

[samba]

Yes - now all she has to do is skate, the only time she let go of her partner was to do the 3 jumps, which in fairness to her, took a lot of guts and she did them very well.

I was so glad Stefan didn’t have to do a re-skate, he didn’t deserve to in the first place, none of the men deserve to because they actually SKATE and are not depending on their partner to make them look good. I was gutted when Sean was voted out, for me he is technically the best one there, he doesn’t depend on his partner to do it all. I’m so glad he is going to continue to skate, who knows we may see him at the British Adults some time.

[samba]

Did I also mention, that on my way out, I cannot believe the amount of adults lining up for the adult course this morning.

Lets hope this fabulous programme goes on and on!!:bow: :bow: :bow:

[Ice_skater]

Hi everyone!
On the Saturday skate off, i really thought that Kelly and Todd should have been voted off. Sean and Marika maybe didn't have as many lifts but it was as good as everyone elses. I really wanted Olga and John to win the competition. Now that they are out of the competition, i would like to see David and Pam go right to the end as i think they skate really well. Bonnie and Matt were also very good.http://www.hockeyfights.com/forums/images/smilies/sports/iceskate.gif

[samba]

Hi Ice Skater

I think most of the UK forum members were upset that John and Olga were out. It gets harder each week and I could have cried for Sean and Marika, they have been so supportive of each other. On the whole a great family atmosphere amongst them all.

[Mrs Redboots]

The trouble is, it's now getting to the stage where everybody is really good! And excuse me, but where was Bonnie Langford's solo 3-jump???? None of us saw it, comparing notes at the rink this morning! Kelly's was great, as was David's.

I'm glad Kelly looks as though she's begun to really enjoy herself - when I saw her in rehearsal she was rather obviously hating it, but I thought, this week, that she was having fun, for once.

I think, on balance, the judges made the right decision, given that what they are asked to do is judge the skaters as they skate in the skate-off, not on anything that happened earlier, nor, even, on how good they know each individual skater to be.

But I'm glad Stefan wasn't in the skate-off - I don't know why the Great British Public doesn't like him.....

[NickiT]

I'm still reeling from the John and Olga vote-off and shocked that another week passed and Kelly is still in. Having said that she certainly did skate the best last night I've seen her skate all month. She's definitely made a big improvement. I think it was a tough choice between her and Sean but she did manage a couple of fairly good three jumps whereas Sean just did one.

Annabel, I'm glad you mentioned about Bonnie's lack of jump. I thought I'd missed it but my daughter was adamant she didn't do one. I must admit I was somewhat disappointed with her performance last night. Her skating was pretty poor but she seems to get good marks from the judges because she looks the part and has great presentation skills. Of course I do admire her for letting her partner swing her round like that, but in all fairness there's not a lot to her. She's pretty tiny!

Gaynor didn't skate as much last night as in previous nights either, but it was great to see Stefan skate so well and avoid the skate-off. He's one who has really improved too. Great to see Dave has his Pam back too.

It really is getting harder now as they have all improved beyond anyone's expectations...even Kelly! I'm betting on a spin being one of the future required elements. Now that will be interesting!

Nicki

[samba]

What I really like about Gaynor is the way she keeps eye contact with her partner and smiles at him all the time, that gives the message that its all about them and not all about me me me, after all they are supposed to be working as a couple, and of course it looks so believably romantic, Sean did the same and it gave the awh factor.

[max]

I'm with you Annabel. Vicki & I never saw a 3-Jump either.

[batikat]

I'm with you Annabel. Vicki & I never saw a 3-Jump either.

Me neither though daughter reckons she made some sort of steppy thing when she was behind her partner so it was hard to see on TV - more of a jumped 3-turn maybe than a 3 jump. Her actual skating when she had her blades on ice looked very shaky, although her lifts were spectacular as usual. I am prepared to forgive her this week as she said she had a cold didn't she and that does affect your balance. Still she was certainly not the best skater .

I still cannot for the life of me understand why Kelly Homes is still there though - yes she did a couple of 3 jumps and all credit to her for that but I still find her perfomances painful to watch. It was very slow (even for slow music)

I was so hoping she'd go out and Nicky Slater raised my hopes only for them to be dashed by the other judges. How could they put out Sean - it seemed that having only done 1 3-jump counted against him but that was all that was required and it's not like Kelly did 1 each way or anything. Sean is so much of a better skater and dancer and has proved he can both lift and be lifted.

oh well I am backing Stephan now. He started as neither a dancer nor a skater and has improved immensely and his programmes are always fun to watch and he did a great jump and his footwork is good. I hope he starts to get the marks and support he deserves.

[samba]

Did anyone watch it tonight, Bonnie was asked basically when is she going to skate and she said she does skate its just that she is very fast.

So there's your answer folks, we just aint quick enough to follow it, but I do still love her lifts.

[olgdancer]

i have just posted a selection of pictures from the show..if you would like to take a look

www.olgasharutenko.com

[samba]

Oh Olga, what beautiful photgraphs, do hurry back to our screens you are so missed.

Love
Grace
xx

[batikat]

Thank you for posting the link Olga. You two were so great on the show it is really not the same without you both.

I'm looking forward to seeing you in the next Imperial Ice Stars production whenever that may be and to seeing John in the new Dr Who series and Torchwood but I do so wish I could still see you both 'dancing on ice'. I'm really upset that I never thought to tape the show but I was so sure you'd be in the final I thought I had plenty of chances to record your performances.:cry:

Please come back and visit us in the forum often! (and send John to skate at Bracknell rink please - we'd be very welcoming!!!!! - he can ask David Tennant!!):lol:

[Ice_skater]

Olga, those photos are really nice. Thanks for posting them onto your site!

[7Cities]

Just watched the show tonight and am awaiting the results at 9.10pm.

for those that don't know, Pam and David didnt Skate tonight as Pam fell and injured her chin and shoulder pretty bad.....only one hour before the show in rehearsels.
I hope Pam gets better soon. David Seaman said she was currently in hospital having an X-ray done.
I wish them all the best and hope they are back on the ice soon.


I predict Stefan Booth will be in the skate off with Kelly Homes tonight.

[samba]

Glad

So glad Stefan didnt have to do a skate off and that he was the first called to be in for next week, what a beautiful programme, well done!!:bow: :bow: :bow:

Sad

So sad for Pam and David, it appeared that the landing leg that she had injured earlier, gave way when she came out of the lift, or David pulled back (if you will pardon the expression) which is unlikely, either way I do hope the poor guy isnt blaming himself and allows it to spoil the next performance, good luck guys.

I never thought I would say this but I was so sad for Kelly, who actually really skated the most that I have seen a female celebrity skate so far and what happens - she's out, it just proves that its the fancy lifts and not the skating that is getting the marks for the women.:roll:
Poor Todd, what a lovely bloke, I used to love watching him skate with Jenny.


As much as I love Bonnie, the only time I saw her totally skate unaided without holding her partner or, holding the other end of the bower which partner was holding, was when she did four backward straight steps, and yes I really pealed my eyelids back waiting for her to do something so if its her speed then my eyes are obviously too slow, admittedly the bower would not assist that much, but it's still holding on.
But yes the lifts are fantastic, as expected from a professional dancer.

[Mrs Redboots]

Totally agree with you, Grace! If they were judging the skating, it should have been Bonnie voted off - but then, they aren't!

Poor Pam - enough to put everybody off.

I think Stefan is now my favourite.

[dooobedooo]

...I never thought I would say this but I was so sad for Kelly ....

You took the words right out of my mouth. She has improved so much the last couple of weeks, and this week really seemed to have found her identity as a performer. She did some good skating moves, and presented really well. A great shame that they missed that last lift in the skate-off, orIMO it might have tipped the balance the other way. If she'd stayed in, I think she might have surprised us all.

Personally, I find Gaynor a bit boring, and wouldn't have missed her hugely if she had been voted off.

Do hope Pam's better soon. :cry:

[samba]

Just had another look at the accident that David and Pam had, and it was her good leg that she landed it on so heaven knows what happened, it was shaping up to be such a great programme as well, sigh, one thing for sure, you wouldnt catch me doing that with anyone at any age!! She is certainly one gutsy lady.

I watched Bonnie again hoping that maybe I had missed something, but I guess I was too slow again.

Still I think for the short time that they all have had it makes wonderful viewing.

[7Cities]

I'm hoping Dan and Gaynor win. They have been briliant every week and I feel Gaynor is always loving what she is doing and that's very important.
This Saturday, Bonnie and Matt really impressed me. I think they will be in the final with Dan and Gaynor.

[samba]

Bonnie and Matt really impressed me. I think they will be in the final with Dan and Gaynor.
Yep, I fear you could be right.

[Mrs Redboots]

I don't know if any of you watch the weeknight Dancing on Ice: Extra programme - but do try to make a point of watching it on Tuesday as two members of our Dance Club might be skating (the couple who pipped us for Bronze at the British Adults last year, but I still love them dearly!). It's not definite yet - but two people from Guildford skated last week, and I gather this slot came through them.

BTW, watching the ODs on Eurosport, they showed a couple doing an upside-down lift, and Chris Howarth was like, "Very difficult!" which, of course it is - but, as we said, they do it every week on Dancing on Ice!

[samba]

Did anyone get to see it tonight? What did Kelly and Todd have to say?

[aussieskater]

Has Dancing on Ice been showing the last few weeks? The last one I saw (downloaded from the 'Net) was Week 4, where John Borrowman got voted off. If it has, I'll need to ask my SekretSources to post the next one(s) along - I *really* enjoyed watching it!!

[Mrs Redboots]

Did anyone get to see it tonight? What did Kelly and Todd have to say?Not a lot, only the usual platitudes of How Much they'd Enjoyed It, and How Sad they Were to be Out. Kelly did whinge a bit at having had to use a chair, rather than a hat or a boa or a walking-stick, which I think she thought might have been easier, but I expect she'd have felt the same whatever she'd had to use.

[batikat]

. Kelly did whinge a bit at having had to use a chair, rather than a hat or a boa or a walking-stick, which I think she thought might have been easier, but I expect she'd have felt the same whatever she'd had to use.

That's quite funny - what could have been easier than all the sitting on a chair that Kelly did. I saw 'sitting on a chair' and 'skating while being held up by a chair' and not a lot of skating by Kelly this time. Much as I wasn't much of a fan of Bonnie's, (and I swear she did not do a 3 jump last time when she should have), at least I did see her skate a bit this time and while I'd still vote for the guys becasue they have to skate and do the lifts, so they are on ice the whole time , I do enjoy watching Bonnie do those fabulous lifts and showing that the over 40's can still do that sort of stuff. The boa was perhaps easier than some of the props. I thought Stephan and Christina were fabulous with the broom (now there is a difficult prop to use - I know I've tried! - not quite in that way though!) and I'm so pleased the judges finally seemed to recognise his achievements and it has got through to the great British public too.

Still, I would have loved to see John and Olga vs Stephan and Christina in the final. That would have been something to see. I'm afraid Gaynor leaves me cold though I am impressed with the lifts they manage.

[samba]

Has Dancing on Ice been showing the last few weeks? The last one I saw (downloaded from the 'Net) was Week 4, where John Borrowman got voted off. If it has, I'll need to ask my SekretSources to post the next one(s) along - I *really* enjoyed watching it!!
Hi assieskater, if you click on this web address it will give you the latest videos http://www.dancingonice.com/main.php

Thanks for the extra up-date guys.

Cheers
Grace

[Mrs Redboots]

Much as I wasn't much of a fan of Bonnie's, (and I swear she did not do a 3 jump last time when she should have), They have to do a 3-revolution, 1-footed spin this week, which ought to sort the sheep from the goats fairly nicely! Even I can't really do that reliably yet (Okay, I probably could, if I set my mind to it, but)....

I see it was Jenna McCorkell tonight, not my friends after all (they weren't sure whether they would be on, and as it turned out, they weren't).

[samba]

I was disappointed, it would have been nice to see more of the older skaters although I wouldnt mind skating like Jenna.

[Sk8bob]

I thought this forum was frequented by people that actually knew about skating, but how wrong I was!

A few people are still saying that Bonnie does not skate during her routines. If you watch and pay attention to her routine, not just look at her great performance skills you will notice that she is completing some of the most difficult technical steps.

Before anyone says that I do not know what I am talking about, I am an ice skating coach of 15 years who has coached pupils up to international level.

[samba]

The majority of people that have made entries on this part of the forum including myself, compete on a regular basis and have met each other personally at such events, like the competitors of the programme they are late starters and therefore well qualified to comment, but even if they were not, this is a public forum for which everyone is entitled to an opinion.

The chances are very likely that Bonnie will win so why get so upset if people that you obviously consider inferior to yourself don’t agree.

[Mrs Redboots]

A few people are still saying that Bonnie does not skate during her routines. If you watch and pay attention to her routine, not just look at her great performance skills you will notice that she is completing some of the most difficult technical steps.Such as? She completely failed to do the required element of an unassisted 3-jump the other week; she is mostly on two feet, and I shall be very interested to see whether she manages a 3-revolution spin next week. All I have seen her manage so far is some back crossovers - and mostly she is supported by her partner.

Granted, she has no fear of the lifts, and she sells her programme incredibly well - as so she should; she's a professional dancer - but technically, she does not appear to be as good as one would think she ought to be from the top half of her!

[batikat]

I thought this forum was frequented by people that actually knew about skating, but how wrong I was!

A few people are still saying that Bonnie does not skate during her routines. If you watch and pay attention to her routine, not just look at her great performance skills you will notice that she is completing some of the most difficult technical steps.

Before anyone says that I do not know what I am talking about, I am an ice skating coach of 15 years who has coached pupils up to international level.

How rude is your first comment!!!!!?:x

Ok then you can tell us. Did Bonnie do the 3 jump when it was a required element? - if she did please tell us where exactly as I definitely did not see it - and yes I do know what it is thanks. I have competed in adult skating comps (medals in dance and free at Adult Championships, albeit low level) and have kids that have competed Novice Championship pairs so I know a bit about lifts too! I'm looking forward to the spins as a required element. Bonnie ought to be able to do that since she should have the balance as a dancer ( I know it's not quite the same thing on skates) and I'm hoping Stephan can manage it. Somehow I can't imagine David Seaman doing a spin8O but I hope he does a great one.

[Sk8bob]

Bonnie's jump was done in the about the first 10 seconds of the program. Admittedly it was not very high, but it she did leave the ice.

[batikat]

Well every other skater including Kelly (who by far was my least favourite) made much better jobs of it. I'm not sure Bonnie's '3 -step' (and that's what it was given that's what was 10 sec's in) should even count and it was definitly the poorest 'required element' that night.

[Sk8bob]

I am sure you are aware that you cannot judge the whole routine by one single element. It was definately not a 3 step, at least she did it by herself unlike Gaynor Faye!

Her jump was not as good as some of the others jumps, but on the whole her routines are choreographically more intricate and technically demanding.

[batikat]

I am sure you are aware that you cannot judge the whole routine by one single element. It was definately not a 3 step, at least she did it by herself unlike Gaynor Faye!
.

Ok worst but one then!!! And of course I'm not judging by a single element :frus: and nor is anyone else but I don't think you can fairly claim she is the best skater out there.


Her jump was not as good as some of the others jumps, but on the whole her routines are choreographically more intricate and technically demanding.
Not as good is a bit of an understatement for that 'jump'! The lifts are indeed very intricate and demanding. I'm not convinced on the rest of it and I assure you I am watching the skating and not just the lifts (and hers are by far the best lifts no question - but then she does have the advantage of being tiny, light, and having a dancers body and flexibility)

I'm also well aware how a top level skater can help even a beginner skater to look really good, which is why I have been impressed by Stephan who has to be good enough to give his partner confidence that he can lift her and he skates more on his own without the support of his partner. I haven't noticed Bonnie doing much skating on her own and I hope to see that to judge how her skating skills are coming along.

[aussieskater]

Hi assieskater, if you click on this web address it will give you the latest videos http://www.dancingonice.com/main.php

Thanks for the extra up-date guys.

Cheers
Grace

Does anyone know what ".php" might mean? When I click on the connection, all I get is an HTML document and not a video. Failing that, anyone know where else the vids might be??

Love from Desperate. :) :)

[samba]

aussieskater, its to the left of the picture of Kelly, marked "Sizzling Videos", just click on the one you want to view.

[NickiT]

I've not been on since the last show, but I have to say I think it was time to see Kelly go. Having said that, she has come on so much and her skating really has improved over the last two weeks, but in my opinion she was one of the weaker skaters and her performance on a chair didn't really do her any favours.

It was a little unexpected to see Bonnie down there in the skate-off this time around, but I'm not at all surprised the judges all voted to keep her on. I don't want to get into any arguments with certain people who have posted, but I do agree in that her actual skating is pretty poor though I feel she did skate better on Saturday. I actually quite like Bonnie and at first I was keen for her to win, but I've seen so much more improvement in the likes of Stefan and Gaynor. Bonnie undoubtedly performs the best lifts but at a mere seven stone she's a lot easier to pick up than some of the other ladies.

Stefan's routine was my favourite of the night. I thought his number with the broom was very well done indeed and I was thrilled for him that he didn't have to do the skate-off.

Gaynor skates very well but I felt she didn't skate as much this week. I think she's really improved though.

I'm sorry for David and Pam but we all know that such falls are a part of skating.

I wondered when the spin would be a required element. I think this will be fun to watch. It took me years to master a consistent spin so I'm looking forward to seeing how they do. No doubt they will all perform the required spin with no problems and put my early attempts to shame!

Nicki

[batikat]

Do you know if there was any requirement for it to be a one foot spin or can they do a two foot spin? (though actually I've never managed a decent 2 foot spin, while my upright spin reaches a respectable 13 revs on a good day!!).

I had another look at some of the programmes on the website. It's really good to have them there and I have to agree that Kelly's skating had improved tremendously as she was doing a number of turns and little jumps on her own - when she wasn't on the chair!:lol:

I think we have yet to see much of Bonnie skating unassisted, although as an overall entertainment package she is sure hard to beat.

I gather Stephan is going to try a salchow this week so I look forward to that - and to seeing David and Pam getting through a routine unhurt.;)

I must admit I have been surprised overall by just how much effort the 'celebrities' have been willing to put into this. Maybe it does show just how addictive ice skating can be.

[samba]

[quote]
It took me years to master a consistent spin so I'm looking forward to seeing how they do. No doubt they will all perform the required spin with no problems and put my early attempts to shame!

Dont under-estimate yourself, if you were being paid to learn, had private ice to yourself and x amount of time with a team of the very best coaches, you would do it, no problem, ah in our dreams eh, I would partner Todd because he is a true gent and very strong or John even if I am not his type because of his wonderful personality (yeh right), and of course Batikat has already bagged Sean. what a great show.

Well I'm off to bed to dream a little.

[batikat]

Hey I'd be happy with Stephan now, (I can bring the broom!) or if I could choose one of the pro's it would have to be Matt Evers - though he'd have a little more problem throwing me about than Bonnie!!!!!:lol:

Nice dream Samba!

[aussieskater]

aussieskater, its to the left of the picture of Kelly, marked "Sizzling Videos", just click on the one you want to view.

Thanks Samba, that was where I clicked and all I got was an HTML document, but no video. What am I doing wrong?? Aargh!! Technology! :cry: And I thought I was improving... :giveup:

[Mrs Redboots]

Do you know if there was any requirement for it to be a one foot spin or can they do a two foot spin? (though actually I've never managed a decent 2 foot spin, while my upright spin reaches a respectable 13 revs on a good day!!).I thought I'd heard them say 1-footed. I must admit, if they can do it it will put me quite to shame, too - my spins are still only 2.5 revolutions on a good day! And a 3/4 revolution backspin - I'm not even allowed to do "my changefoot" in my this year's Interpretive piece, since my coach says it looks as though I'm losing my balance and lurching on to the other foot! Er..... well..... :oops:

So if they can do it, I am determined to do it! We have a perfectly respectable couples' spin now, and Husband's solo spin is becoming more reliable, so if he can, I can!

[Mrs Redboots]

Just seen today's programme, and it is a 3-revolution 1-foot spin, and they're all having trouble with it!

Batikat & NickiT - someone asked Stefan if he'd like to be in a pantomime on ice, and he said "Yes, he would" - so if you want a star for your rink's panto this year.....

[samba]

Hi aussieskater

I have PM'd you, hope it helps.

Cheers
Grace

[samba]

Just seen today's programme, and it is a 3-revolution 1-foot spin, and they're all having trouble with it!

Batikat & NickiT - someone asked Stefan if he'd like to be in a pantomime on ice, and he said "Yes, he would" - so if you want a star for your rink's panto this year.....

Hi Annabel

I also saw that and would you believe it, Bonnie is very nearly there with that spin, who knows, she may just pull something off this week.

Stefan and Christina are such sweeties and ah what a lovely brush programme they did, I keep watching it in my lunch break at work. Oh yes I also saw Stefan do a salchow tonight!!

I wonder if we will get a chance to get one of the costumes, I just love that cat suit that Kelly wore.

Hope we get to see Olga and John again soon.

Cheers
Grace

[NickiT]

Batikat & NickiT - someone asked Stefan if he'd like to be in a pantomime on ice, and he said "Yes, he would" - so if you want a star for your rink's panto this year.....

Yes, yes!!! Send him over to Bracknell. We'll have him any day!!!

Interesting to hear that some of the stars are struggling with their spins but not unexpected. We all know how easy it is to mess up a spin and when they are under pressure too! Will be good viewing on Saturday, me thinks!!!

Nicki

[Mrs Redboots]

Hi Annabel

I also saw that and would you believe it, Bonnie is very nearly there with that spin, who knows, she may just pull something off this week.

She got it this morning! She and Matt were working at our rink, and I definitely saw her do a 3-revolution spin on one foot. So even if she doesn't manage it tomorrow, I have seen her do it!

Actually, I do take it all back - the woman can skate. For the first hour they were on the ice this morning, she was doing basic skating, exactly as if she were any of us - basic stroking in all directions, crossovers, etc. Quite slowly, but on her own, not being held up, edges not at all bad either. Her 3-turns are better than some members of our Dance Club's are. Gave her respect!

No, we didn't get a sneak preview of their programme, alas - they hadn't started working on it by the end of the patch!

One of our skaters was running through her this year's Artistic, which also involves the use of a broom (she's skating to "A woman's Touch" from Calamity Jane, and Matt came rushing over to demand her phone number as they're always looking for people for the end of the "Extra" show during the week...

[samba]

Hooray, at last!!

I saw her on extra tonight and yes she really was skating, I cant believe I just said that, now all she has to do is repeat it tomorrow, fingers crossed.

Its a long time since anyone even took at leisurely walk for my phone number!!

[Mrs Redboots]

Told you Bonnie could do that spin! I was amused to notice how her skating perked up in the skate-off once she'd done it - reminds me of a skater I know who has to put her axel in the first 10 seconds of her programme, and if it comes off, she skates really well thereafter, and if she flubs it, she can't do a thing with the rest of it! It was quite right that she should skate off, I thought, and then that she should be kept, as she really did skate well in it.

I think they have the right finalists. I was seriously impressed with Stefan, even if he did only manage a 2-revolution spin, I thought he skated really well. Voted for him, even - first time I've voted in the programme. And Gaynor would be fine if someone would explain she needs to point her toes (Hello, pot, kettle?).

So who do you hope will win? I don't think I mind, maybe I'd marginally rather it was Stefan or Bonnie rather than Gaynor, but.....

[samba]

Yes I did see Bonnie's spin, very good although it didnt finish with a proper back edge but that would come. I know what you mean about getting the hardest element out first, problem for me is I cant do it until I have relaxed so it usually goes more towards the middle.
However (sorry about this) that was the ONLY time that she let go of her partner, most disappointing because I did see her in practice mid-week, skating un-aided, so it must be a matter of confidence which I guess the skaters amongst us can all relate to, but she is a brilliant show girl, and so she ought.

Gaynor has the same problem in not letting go but I somehow preferred her routine as in my opinion she sold it even better than Bonnie can, the fun and shear enjoyment of the partnership is infectious.

Stefan, ah Stefan once again a great skate, I love seeing him in practice also, he reminds me of the kids on public session, "so who cares if I get hurt, go for it".

So sad David is out he is the only non-entertainer amongst them if you know what I mean, there's no acting or presenting himself in his job so the whole thing is alien to him, they worked so very very hard and Pam is so brave.

Roll on the finals, I would like to see it between Gaynor and Stefan, but I think the public will vote Bonnie, who I love but needs more confidence to not totally rely on her partner.

[dooobedooo]

Interesting that Bonnie spins "the other way" ie. is a CW spinner ... And well done for her spin in the skate-off, and her words of encouragement for us over-fourties (heh heh).

Love Stefan and Christina, but hope they have more polish next week, as well as good skating ...

And I hope nobody listens to that festering lump of shite in the middle of the judging panel .... just tune it out, guys ....

[Ice_skater]

Oh no! I didn't want David and Pam to leave last night! I was hoping that they would have been in the final. I was really glad they got their spin right at the end! I thought Stefan and Kristina did really well and i also really like the song they danced to ('Don't stop me now' by Queen). Bonnie and Matt were quite good but not as good as other weeks and in the skate-off i really thought that David and Pam did better than them. I'm sure they will do better next week.Gaynor and Daniel were also good but at the moment i think that Stefan and Kristina are skating best.

[samba]

Interesting that Bonnie spins "the other way" ie. is a CW spinner ... And well done for her spin in the skate-off, and her words of encouragement for us over-fourties (heh heh).

Love Stefan and Christina, but hope they have more polish next week, as well as good skating ...

And I hope nobody listens to that festering lump of shite in the middle of the judging panel .... just tune it out, guys ....

I have just watched Bonnie again this morning and I take it back, she did come out of the spin on a running edge and then Matt cleverly caught her free leg and on to another element, nice move.

I quite agree with the decription of Jason, it will be interesting to hear his comments once he learns to skate himself, aparently he is going to learn after this is finished, then maybe he won't be so hell bent on presentation alone and actually look at what the feet are or are not doing.

[NickiT]

They've definitely got the right three couples in the finals but I was so sorry to see David and Pam go. I could see why they went but they've had a tough time and it was a shame.

Stefan is my favourite now, I think. He pulled off another stunning performance last night. Gaynor did well too and I think of the four of them she performed the best one-foot spin in my eyes, even if she did go into it from a two-foot spin. I agree that she needs to work at pointing her toes but she did very well and like Stefan, has come on so well over the weeks.

Bonnie looked great again and did do a reasonable spin in the skate-off. I just wish she'd skate more. I honestly think that 75% of her performance last night she was in a lift of some sort. It all looks very good and I admire her guts for what she does, but I so want to see her skate...and I mean more than a couple of crossovers.

Looking forward to next week. I'm surprised it's already the finals given there are still three couples as I was expecting they'd wittle it right down to the last one.

Nicki

[Mrs Redboots]

Bonnie looked great again and did do a reasonable spin in the skate-off. I just wish she'd skate more. I honestly think that 75% of her performance last night she was in a lift of some sort. It all looks very good and I admire her guts for what she does, but I so want to see her skate...and I mean more than a couple of crossovers. And what is seriously annoying is that she actually can skate really quite well - probably better than Gaynor, although perhaps not quite as well as Stefan. I saw her in rehearsal on Friday, and she spent the first hour working on her edges, just as we all do. Okay, she was slow, but she was definitely skating - Matt didn't even arrive at the rink until she'd been on for about 20 minutes!

[NickiT]

And what is seriously annoying is that she actually can skate really quite well - probably better than Gaynor, although perhaps not quite as well as Stefan. I saw her in rehearsal on Friday, and she spent the first hour working on her edges, just as we all do. Okay, she was slow, but she was definitely skating - Matt didn't even arrive at the rink until she'd been on for about 20 minutes!

Yes it's frustrating when you know she CAN skate. I know the lifts are impressive but I'd love to see her skate properly and unaided. I do feel that she has too many lifts in her programmes.

Nicki

[batikat]

Well I'm happy that Stefan and Christina are in the finals (hate to think what my phone bill will be though, since I gave daughter carte blanche to phone as many times as she wanted and then stupidly told her where the re-dial button was)!!!! I hope he takes note of Jason's comments though and works on the upper body presentation and his arms for next week. I would love for him to win - he really seems to have caught the skating bug.

I would have liked to see Bonnie and Gaynor in the skate off, as then it would have been likely Gaynor would have gone out. I'm sorry but I'm just not seeing this magical connection that everyone keeps talking about and while she had the best spin in the first programme I still think she has the weakest skating of any of them.

I was so pleased for Bonnie that her spin worked so well in the skate-off but I still wish she would skate a little more without so much support from Matt as it does seem she could do it now. Her lifts were amazing as always.

I felt sorry for David having to skate against Bonnie in the skate-off, especially after listening to Jason's totally biased remarks earlier in the main programme. I thought Nicky was quite right to tell him off, as they were supposed to be marking on what they saw on the night and not what they had done over the previous weeks or what the judges thought they might potentially do. That's the sort of judging that's given proper competitive ice-dancing a bad name so I thought it was appalling he should do it here. I was so happy for David and Pam to get the chance to do the headbanger lift and get it right before they went though, so I doubt he's too unhappy since he left on a high note.

I'm glad the judges don't get a say in who wins now since Jason would vote Bonnie whatever happened. If I understood correctly they will all re-do one of their previous routines and then the top two as voted by the public will skate routines choreographed to Bolero music in the final skate-off. I presume this will also be decided by public vote so how will that work as there'll not be much time. Maybe they'll add the earlier votes to any that come in after the skate off. If they do then I guess it's important to vote lots in the first programme so they get a head start!

[Melzorina]

Hi!

If there are any Daniel fans, then me and my friend have set up a fansite for him at
http://www.daniel-whiston.tk
OR
http://www.freewebs.com/flying-hearts

Enjoy!

xxx

[Sk8bob]

I am really looking forward to the final. I hope that the winner will be chosen by skating ability and not just by personality!

Gaynor's skating is wooden, the only thing that has really improved from the first show is her confidence.. Stefan is very confident but his skating is very unpredictable and messy, he could fall at any second.

Bonnie has not shown her full skating ability yet but she is as good as Stefan, if not better! She is the only celebrity that could leave the show on Saturday and have a professional career in professional ice shows.

[Mrs Redboots]

I am really looking forward to the final. I hope that the winner will be chosen by skating ability and not just by personality!When it's chosen by popular vote? I don't think so!

Gaynor's skating is wooden, the only thing that has really improved from the first show is her confidence.. Stefan is very confident but his skating is very unpredictable and messy, he could fall at any second. Oh, Gaynor has improved enormously. I think with time and proper training, she could skate well - certainly as well as any of us, which is well enough to have enormous fun, but not, perhaps, well enough to be much good. Ditto Stefan, whose confidence has improved enormously, too.

Bonnie has not shown her full skating ability yet but she is as good as Stefan, if not better! She is the only celebrity that could leave the show on Saturday and have a professional career in professional ice shows.I don't know about that, but she is certainly a better skater than she looks on television! I do think she suffers from nerves, which damps down her skating and makes her rely on Matt too much - if she could just "shut up and skate", as we are so often told to do, she really would be good.

[Sk8bob]

Oh, Gaynor has improved enormously. I think with time and proper training, she could skate well - certainly as well as any of us, which is well enough to have enormous fun, but not, perhaps, well enough to be much good. Ditto Stefan, whose confidence has improved enormously, too.


Unfortunately the skaters only have another 3 days to improve, and this show is about the actual performance on the day so I think they may be leaving it a little late to show what they can do.

I know I keep on supporting Bonnie, but she has the full package. She can skate, she and Matt have a great rapour on the ice and her presentation skills are second to none.

I think everyone is forgeting that all the celebraties are complete beginners. Bonnie wowed everyone from the very first show and continues to improve, whereas Stefan and Gaynor have made a steady improvement from bambi's on skates to fairly decent skaters.

One of the ice coaches from a local rink saw Bonnie skate for the very first time before the show started. She was hanging onto the barrier for dear life with one hand and being held up by a hockey player with her other. I have to upmost respect for what she has done.

If you started skating late in life, try and remember how confident you were when you started. When you are younger if you fall over, you don't really care, you just hopefully bounce and get back up again. But when you get older you start to think about the consequences of what will happen if you fall.

Stefan still has that youthfull exuberance at 26, Gaynor is only 34 but Bonnie is 41. I know that she is definately not over the hill but credit should be given where credit is due.

[TashaKat]

I want Bonnie to win but think that the best three are in the skate off. Personally I think that David Seaman was held back by his partner, he probably had the worst of the pros out of all of them. I would have loved to have seen him skate with Marika, I'm sure that they would be in the final if he had.

What is not being advertised is that Bonnie started in the programme later than the others so had to play 'catch up' with her skating. I think that they should be putting more skating in too but then that prat from Coro and Marika were marked down for not putting the 'tricks' in ... go figure!

Although Jason Gardiner needs to put things slightly more diplomatically, what he is saying is true, just not nicely said. I actually quite like him, I think that he's pretty accurate in his assessments. The other three are pretty pointless, Nicky annoys me and Karen REALLY does my head in. I love Robin, of course :D

I think that both Gaynor and Stefan has done marvellously well. I won't be upset for any of them to win but Bonnie is my outright favourite. I do feel sorry for David, though but was choked when he got the 'headbanger' in the skate off :)

[samba]

Hi!

If there are any Daniel fans, then me and my friend have set up a fansite for him at
http://www.daniel-whiston.tk
OR
http://www.freewebs.com/flying-hearts

Enjoy!

xxxWell done Mel, skating is obviously not your only talent.

Thanks
Grace

[Melzorina]

Well done Mel, skating is obviously not your only talent.

Thanks
Grace

Wow, thanks!

[batikat]

Well it's my birthday on Saturday, so I think, as my birthday present, that I should get to choose who wins. So anyone who wants to help me get my birthday wish then please vote for Stefan. Thank-you!!!:lol:

Seriously while I think they should all be congratulated for the effort and commmitment and for what they have achieved, I think Stefan deserves to win for having shown he can skate unaided (and is brave enough to do so) and that he can lift his partner, as well as jump and spin. He has struggled with presentation but that's developed so much and while Bonnie is fun to watch, she already had the presentation skills so she didn't have to learn them. Bonnie may be 41 but she is extremely fit and flexible and very light which has more of a bearing on how well you can skate (in this type of show skating) than age alone.

I admire Gaynor for her courage in the lifts but her individual skating skills appear the weakest of the 3 finalists. Daniel is cute though!

They are all great though and I'm glad the show turned out so well. I'll miss it!

[samba]

First of all I hope you have a great day tomorrow Batikat and I guess you are not yet 41 (well you dont look it), lets hope not because I'm sick of her banging on about it, I was waiting for her to go on about it again last night but they printed it on the screen instead! I on the other hand am old enough to be her mother so I certainly know what its like to start skating at around her age and indeed carry on doing so in competition. Anyway I'm not going to mention the 'B' word again because I thinks she's great anway.

I agree with all you have said (sounding boring now) out of the ones that are left Stefan has in my opinion made the most progress in both skating and presentation both of which he had little of at the begining.

Gaylor and Daniel are a sight to behold I just love the connection they have, they must have been brother and sister in another life.

I think all the celebs are going to miss their partners terribly, lets hope they all get together for old times sake (and ours) one day, but not Andy who apparently thinks his partner was the partner from hell, more like the other way round I would say.

Happy birthday for tomorrow
Grace
xxx

[batikat]

Thanks Grace
Actually I am older than Bonnie so thanks for the comment about looking younger !!!!!:lol: I was 4 years younger than her present age when I started but I reckon they've all had more coaching and ice time in the series than I have in the years I've been skating and what I wouldnt' give for a partner like Matt or Daniel (swoon!)............

Actually, I'd be happy with Stefan:lol:

:bow: :bow: :bow: to all of them and let's hope they all have a good skate tomorrow.

[Mrs Redboots]

:bow: :bow: :bow: to all of them and let's hope they all have a good skate tomorrow.Seconded! I, too, hope Stefan wins - and many happy returns of tomorrow!

[olgdancer]

Thanks Grace
Actually I am older than Bonnie so thanks for the comment about looking younger !!!!!:lol: I was 4 years younger than her present age when I started but I reckon they've all had more coaching and ice time in the series than I have in the years I've been skating and what I wouldnt' give for a partner like Matt or Daniel (swoon!)............

Actually, I'd be happy with Stefan:lol:

:bow: :bow: :bow: to all of them and let's hope they all have a good skate tomorrow.

Sniom Rajdenia , Batikat. I think that is phonetically saying happy birthday to you in Russian.

And i agree , congratulations to all the celebrities for taking part , they are all winners. And whoever wins the final will deserve to , just based on effort alone , they all worked and tried so hard.

Lots of Love

Olga S

[NickiT]

And thirded! If that's a word. They've all done well but Stefan has improved the most and is the only one of the remaining three who has to have his feet on the ice 100% of the time during their programme. I'm going to miss it too, but I heard rumours that another series is planned for next year or even a Christmas special!

Nicki

[batikat]

Sniom Rajdenia , Batikat. I think that is phonetically saying happy birthday to you in Russian.

And i agree , congratulations to all the celebrities for taking part , they are all winners. And whoever wins the final will deserve to , just based on effort alone , they all worked and tried so hard.

Lots of Love

Olga S


Thank-you for the birthday wishes Olga - I'm glad you did the phonetic version.:lol: I have been to Moscow (many years ago) and have a Russian coach but the Russian alphabet is very hard for me:lol: Usually we'd go out for a celebratory evening meal on my birthday but this time it'll have to be a lunch as I can't miss the 'Dancing on Ice' finale!!!

If you and John had also been in the final it would have been perfect but at least we got to enjoy your perfomances for quite a few weeks. And if John wants some nice adult-friendly sessions on ice then Bracknell rink on weekday mornings at 9.30am - 10.30 would be a great place for him to practice his ice skills!!!!!

Will we see you and John on the ice again tomorrow with everyone else from the show?

Best wishes!
Gail

[Mrs Redboots]

And if John wants some nice adult-friendly sessions on ice then Bracknell rink on weekday mornings at 9.30am - 10.30 would be a great place for him to practice his ice skills!!!!!And we loved having you both at Streatham, so don't be a stranger - come and visit us again soon!

[samba]

Hi Olga

Good to see you are still with us.

I had a skate this morning and the girl in the box office said that they had to turn away customers on 3 occasions last week because they were so full, in all time history this has never happened at our rink, I'm so pleased because it has had to close quite a few times and it's programmes like this that will hopefully keep it going.

Nice to see John is going to be on tonight, I sincerely hope you can make it too, pretty please!!
If you get tired of the London area (dont be greedy folks!) you could always try further up north to my rink.

Good luck to all

Cheers
Grace

[samba]

Happy Birthday batikat!!!

[Lois]

I am looking for either DVD or VHS copies of the ITV2 digital Dancing on Ice: Defrosted shows, especially the ones for January 28 and February 4, because I was at those broadcasts, and also for some of the talk show appearances by the Dancing on Ice contestants and others. And if Olga reads this, she and John were wonderful when they won on the 28th, and it was so sad and shocking to see them go on the 4th!

And, just in case anyone can help on this, I am also looking for BBC Digital coverage of the 2006 (and 2002) Olympics, BBC's 2006 Europeans coverage, and some of the old videos from the 1970s and 1980s that I've read were shown on BBC Digital just prior to the Olympics.

I have lots of skating video for possible trade, or would be happy to pay for copies.

Lois (in the US)

[Sk8bob]

Go Bonnie Go!!!!!

John and Sinead will be at the show today and they will be supporting Bonnie and Matt.

http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/tm_objectid=16771549&method=full&siteid=66633&headline=-bubbly--langford-is-expert-choice----name_page.html

Can't wait until tonight...

[batikat]

I have a feeling that Gaynor might win because despite not having the presentation skills of Bonnie, or the skating skills of Stefan, she seems to have inspired a lot of people through her partnership with Daniel.

I'm still voting for Stefan and was interested to see T & D's quote on the finalists on the ITV website that,

"Stefan is probably the most capable skater".

Yay! and that's why he gets my vote!

Good luck to all the finalists and long may they continue to skate once this programme is over!!!

Thanks for the birthday wishes Samba. At least today's been an improvement on yesterday, when someone ran a red light and bumped the back end of my car as I was on my way home from the rink - no injuries thankfully.

[samba]

I have a feeling that Gaynor might win because despite not having the presentation skills of Bonnie, or the skating skills of Stefan, she seems to have inspired a lot of people through her partnership with Daniel.
Its so close, its hard to say, I love all 3 of them for different reasons, Stefan because he can skate, Gaynor because of the sheer joy that she radiates, and Bonnie because from the age of 6 and maybe sooner she learned to smile no matter what anyone says, a lesson for me at least.

Thanks for the birthday wishes Samba. At least today's been an improvement on yesterday, when someone ran a red light and bumped the back end of my car as I was on my way home from the rink - no injuries thankfully.
The heavens must have been looking down on you, I hope you swopped details.

As its your birthday lets hope Stefan wins just for you Gail.

Cheers
Grace

[samba]

CONGRATULATIONS GAYNOR AND DANIEL:bow: :bow: :bow:

Well the wonderful British public picked the two finalists correctly, I would have loved to have seen Stefan collect the trophy because I still think that he skated the best but as I have said in the past and batikat also said, Gaynor has a wonderful connection with Daniel and this is probably what sold it. Either way I think Stefan and Christina were just so thrilled to be able to perform the Bolero which was a prize in inself both for themselves and certainly for us, I found it very moving, I am so pleased he is going to continue to skate and I wish him and all the others the best of luck and hope we will see them all skate again in the future.

[NickiT]

It was a good evening and I'm pleased for the two final couples who made it to skate the Bolero. I did feel sorry for Bonnie and I must admit she looked awesome on that wire, flying above the ice, but as we've said so many times before, she has so much of an advantage over the others. Also found out from the skatefitter yesterday that she'd been sneeking in quite a few lessons at Guildford before the auditions:roll: ! I voted Stefan because he has improved so much and because he has to skate 100% of the time unlike the ladies who can hide behind the lifts. However I feel that Gaynor did extremely well and I wasn't disappointed to see her win. I don't know what I'm going to do on a Saturday evening now. I'm really going to miss the show!

Nicki

[samba]

Ditto Niki, I sneekily voted for Stefan (didnt want hubby to know how much I was spending) forgot they always answer which they eventually did but he also voted Stefan more than a couple of times and was getting a string of answers also so for once he finally enjoyed watching skating!!

The wire stunt was wonderful to watch but NOT skating and thank goodness the public saw right through it.

Must go, the re-run of the finals hasnt finished yet on ITV2 and Gaynor is skating to Titanic which I did with my partner a few years ago.

[samba]

May I also say a big THANKS to Jane and Chris for this wonderful show which has bumped up box office ratings at my rink to an all-time high, so glad you refused to say who you thought should win, I would have hated to see the public being unfairly influenced apart from it being totally unfair on the skaters. Well done and more please!!:bow: :bow: :bow:

[Sk8bob]

It was a good evening and I'm pleased for the two final couples who made it to skate the Bolero. I did feel sorry for Bonnie and I must admit she looked awesome on that wire, flying above the ice, but as we've said so many times before, she has so much of an advantage over the others. Also found out from the skatefitter yesterday that she'd been sneeking in quite a few lessons at Guildford before the auditions !

All the celebrities were given lessons before the show. They had about 20 -25 hours with a skating coach at various rinks around the country.

Also Bonnie Langford was only a reserve for the show, she only got picked just before christmas.

[batikat]

YAY! Stefan got to the final final and got to skate to Bolero. I was so pleased for him and to get called out first must have felt great after so many times in the skate-off. I loved his wire flying act - and he at least seemed to make an effort to skate a bit as well.

It was a pity they couldn't have let all 3 finalists skate their Bolero pieces as I'd have loved to see Bonnie and Matt's one. It did seem a tad unfair that Bonnie had done the high flying thing before when the others had never tried it. Yes she had to adjust for skates but at least she had the basic techniques. It was a pity really that it didn't give her a chance to show off her skating - I think her feet touched the floor for about 3 seconds in the whole thing and I think it may have worked against her in the end.

Congrats to the winners, even though I'd not have placed them first!:)

The really nice thing out of this programe is that they have all displayed such enthusiasm for skating and that is encouraging people to get out there and try it. I was hoping Stefan would win as it would also help to encourage more guys to try it.

Great show all round and great to see Torville & Dean so involved - that made it extra special.

[Sk8bob]

How many people actually voted for Gaynor? I have spoken to at least 75 people since the show finished and not one person voted for her....

Everyone either voted for Stefan or Bonnie...

Who wants to take votes on whether Gaynor is gonna bring out a book called 'The Journey'? She has been plugging it all series.

[samba]

I didn’t vote for Gaynor but out of what was left, I still think she deserved to be in the top two, obviously many other people did vote for her I love watching her but it was the skating that I was mainly watching out for.

Oh is she writing a book? Thanks for plug, I will certainly buy it.

[Sk8bob]

Bonnie and Matt were not the only couple with a slight advantage, Daniel has been flying for at least the last four years in Hot Ice. He has also manipulated people whilst flying so he was used helping Gaynor.

Bonnie was great, she at least deserved to skate Bolero.

Stefan was very good, if a bit nervous but if Gaynor had skated the way she danced Bolero last night in week two or three she would have got knocked out.

Although I respect everyones opinion, I really don't care what anyone says because I know what I saw!

She looked like Stefan had 'placed' his broom in a certain area!8O

[Ice_skater]

What a great show! :)
Watching Torvill and Dean doing the Bolero was brilliant. You could tell that they were quite emotional about doing it again after so many years!
I was hoping that Stefan and Kristina would win but well done to Gaynor and Daniel for winning! It's a shame we didn't see Bonnie and Matt doing their version of the bolero as it must have been quite good.
All of the couples' flying was really good. It was really spectacular.

Now we just have to wait for the next series!!! :)

[Mrs Redboots]

I decided I didn't care who won, I'd have been pleased whoever did, so I didn't vote. I suppose I was marginally hoping Stefan would win, since he seems to be as hooked on the sport now as the rest of us are!

I thought the flying was lovely, especially Bonnie's, but you couldn't exactly call it skating, could you? Fun, though.

Like you, we were really pleased that Chris & Jayne refused to pick a winner. It would have been invidious. I'm really glad though, for them, that the programme worked so well - it had been being touted for over a year, and could easily have been a disaster.

Did you notice how different the choreographies were for Bolero when they had to concoct their own, not get Chris to do it for them! But then, I've always liked Chris' choreography.

I wonder how long having 50+ people in the Tuesday and Thursday evening Learn-to-skate classes will continue - the coaches are struggling, and various people are being hauled in to help!

[NickiT]

I wonder how long having 50+ people in the Tuesday and Thursday evening Learn-to-skate classes will continue - the coaches are struggling, and various people are being hauled in to help!

Our rink has been over-run as has most over rinks in the UK as a result of Dancing on Ice. Only yesterday our rink manager was on the radio telling everyone how much busier the sessions are now at our rink, and last rink the receptionists were complaining that they simply can't cope. There are now waiting lists for the learn to skate classes because they have become fully booked. Even Les was saying yesterday that it's doing his head in because a lot of newbies are heading his way for fittings! I wonder too how long it will keep going. Like anything I suspect that several will soon lose interest once they find it to be harder than it looks, but hopefully we'll get a few more good skaters out of it in the long run!

Nicki

[Lallypillz]

I hope all they crap skaters give up eventually. Or they build more rinks!
Stefan was my favourite on DOI, followed closely by Bonnie. Gaynor just annoyed me

[samba]

I hope all they crap skaters give up eventually. Or they build more rinks!
Stefan was my favourite on DOI, followed closely by Bonnie. Gaynor just annoyed me
Welcome Lallypillz, more rinks would be a better option, I dont think it matters what standard the skaters are as long as the money keeps coming in and allows the rinks to stay open, besides few of us conisider ourselves particularly good skaters.

Glad you liked Stefan, seems he was the favourite with most of us in the end.

[Lallypillz]

I guess your right, I mean with more money being ploughed into ice rinks, more people will have the oppotunity to see ice skating as a sport. And more rinks is by far a wonderful idea. My nearest rink is 45 mins away, which is a huge pain, especially as I cant drive yet, and thats the reason why I'm not having lessons at the moment. The pure fact that I cant get there (and also having no boots doesnt help :p). I did hear a roumer that they should be building a new rink closer too me, which will be wonerful.

Stefan was amazing. He wasnt the most graceful, but he tried, and he did have talent. And he was always just so happy to get thru. and he was even so happy for Gaynor when she won! aww

p.s thanks for the welcome :)

[samba]

I guess your right, I mean with more money being ploughed into ice rinks, more people will have the oppotunity to see ice skating as a sport. And more rinks is by far a wonderful idea. My nearest rink is 45 mins away, which is a huge pain, especially as I cant drive yet, and thats the reason why I'm not having lessons at the moment. The pure fact that I cant get there (and also having no boots doesnt help :p). I did hear a roumer that they should be building a new rink closer too me, which will be wonerful.
I will keep my fingers crossed for you.

Stefan was amazing. He wasnt the most graceful, but he tried, and he did have talent. And he was always just so happy to get thru. and he was even so happy for Gaynor when she won! aww
You are so right, did you see the way he looked straight over to her with a big grin and congratulated her, double aww

p.s thanks for the welcome :)
You're welcome!

[sceptique]

Our rink has been over-run as has most over rinks in the UK as a result of Dancing on Ice. Only yesterday our rink manager was on the radio telling everyone how much busier the sessions are now at our rink, and last rink the receptionists were complaining that they simply can't cope. There are now waiting lists for the learn to skate classes because they have become fully booked. Even Les was saying yesterday that it's doing his head in because a lot of newbies are heading his way for fittings! I wonder too how long it will keep going. Like anything I suspect that several will soon lose interest once they find it to be harder than it looks, but hopefully we'll get a few more good skaters out of it in the long run!

Nicki

Nicki -

I hear your pain!
Yesterday we have a new block Skate UK enrollment and I could hardly believe my eyes. Planet Ice doesn't do waiting lists (profit! profit!) so I heard from Marina that Milton Keynes had 120 people sign up for Adults Gliders, and Coventry.... let's say, when yesterday we opened the gate people just kept coming... and coming... and coming. We had to split them into 15-20 skater groups amongst 4 people working with grade 1 and still it was not enough - had 1 serious injury (now I know for sure that people can crack their heads open when falling on ice - the lady is going to be all right, but I'm pretty confident she won't be skating for a while). Oh my!

I'm actually happy about so many people giving it a try, but I'm worried about the short-time hype effect - you can't increase rink capacity instantly (though cutting some public skating time in favour of group lessons and increasing prices might be a possible regulatory solution), and with a chaos like yesterday you'll have too many people disillusioned with skating ("been there, tried it once, didn't like it - total disaster"). I wish I had a few spare millions to invest into a chain of temporary rinks throughout the country!

[sceptique]

What a great show! :)
Watching Torvill and Dean doing the Bolero was brilliant.

BTW, did anyone tape it, by any chance?
A couple of years ago we decided not to have a TV in our house (more quality time, reading etc.) and we didn't miss it until this winter (Euro Champs! Olympics! Dancing on Ice!).

I can watch tapes & DVDs on my PC, so I'm desperate for a copy.

[mister pt]

I was away this weekend so set the video to record the two "dancing on ice" finale programs on saturday... but it didnt record!!! argh!

So please please please, if anyone recorded it, I would be eternally greatful if I could work out getting a copy of it! :) :bow:

likewise, video or dvd is fine for me.

[Lallypillz]

BTW, did anyone tape it, by any chance?
A couple of years ago we decided not to have a TV in our house (more quality time, reading etc.) and we didn't miss it until this winter (Euro Champs! Olympics! Dancing on Ice!).

I can watch tapes & DVDs on my PC, so I'm desperate for a copy.

If you go on the dancing on ice official website they have the clip of it on there

[Melzorina]

There's a dancing on Ice DVD due to be released on march 27th

[2loop2loop]

Yesterday we have a new block Skate UK enrollment and I could hardly believe my eyes. Planet Ice doesn't do waiting lists (profit! profit!) so I heard from Marina that Milton Keynes had 120 people sign up for Adults Gliders,


I teach the adult gliders at MK and you are right we had 120 adults enrolled for the course the started this evening, it was crazy! Teaching the adult group lessons used to be a nice relaxed way to round off an evening of training, not so any more - it's rush hour out there! It will be interesting to see how long it lasts...

[Melzorina]

How many people actually voted for Gaynor? I have spoken to at least 75 people since the show finished and not one person voted for her....


I voted 14 times!

[samba]

If you go on the dancing on ice official website they have the clip of it on there
What I like about it is that it shows little snippets of the original moves in between for comparison.

[Mrs Redboots]

I wish I had a few spare millions to invest into a chain of temporary rinks throughout the country!The trouble is, we had them - there were several in London in December/January - but the last one closed last week! For Londoners, skating has become very much the fashionable thing to do over the Christmas period, and I know other cities - York, Norwich, etc - have also had their Christmas rinks. For once, they should have all stayed open for another couple of months and taken some of the pressure off the proper rinks.....

[Sk8bob]

Bonnie doing Bolero. Check out a clip shown today on ITV's This Morning of Bonnie and Matt in their rehearsal before the final.

http://mfile.akamai.com/12621/wmv/carlton1.download.akamai.com/12621/bonnie_bolero_hi.wmv

[batikat]

Thanks for the link Sk8bob - it's good to see her's too.

As for whether it's the best - probably depends whether you are voting on the overall look of the whole package or on skating skills (of the 'celebrity' partner).

Personally, I still think Stefan deserved to win as to my mind a lot of that one was down to Matt's expertise in the lifts etc and obviously as always Bonnie knows how to present and how to hold herself in the lifts etc but Stefan still on the whole did more actual skating moves and not only was steady enough to skate himself but to lift his partner too and I still think he deserves tremendous credit for that. I hear he wants to do more Freeskating now - he's welcome to come and practice salchows and stuff with me:lol: :lol: :lol:

Melzorina - were you actually voting for Gaynor or for Daniel!!!!!!lol: :lol: :lol: ;)

I like the websites!

Now is that video out in time for Mothers day?????

[Tiggerwoos]

This might be a bit premature but I can't remember what her name was, but the reddish brown haired girl from steps was practicing for January's 2007 ~Dancing On Ice at Slough a couple of weeks ago. She looked like she was doing pretty well considering she'd just had a month of training. She was very petite though but some of the lifts her and her partner were pulling off were pretty impressive.

[Helen88]

I am looking for either DVD or VHS copies of the ITV2 digital Dancing on Ice: Defrosted shows, especially the ones for January 28 and February 4, because I was at those broadcasts, and also for some of the talk show appearances by the Dancing on Ice contestants and others. And if Olga reads this, she and John were wonderful when they won on the 28th, and it was so sad and shocking to see them go on the 4th!

And, just in case anyone can help on this, I am also looking for BBC Digital coverage of the 2006 (and 2002) Olympics, BBC's 2006 Europeans coverage, and some of the old videos from the 1970s and 1980s that I've read were shown on BBC Digital just prior to the Olympics.

I have lots of skating video for possible trade, or would be happy to pay for copies.

Lois (in the US)

Er...is a bad thing to say that I still talk/think about it everyday, even though series 2 is about two weeks away (20th Jan 2007 if you didn't know)? You can download all of the interviews/performances from www.fsvids.net (you may have to ask for reposts). And DAVID AND PAM SHOULD HAVE WON!!! One of my sites - www.pamfanclub.piczo.com