FIGURE SKATING

Figure skating developed from the innovations of two men in the middle part of last century.

In 1850 E. W. Bushnell developed the first steel-bladed skates - which allowed the skaters to make quicker and more skilful movements.

Thirteen years later ex-patriot American Jackson Haines, a ballet teacher, saw the potential of choreographing skaters in the same manner as ballet dancers.

His first shows of figure skating received critical acclaim in Vienna.

He went on to construct the first all-in-one boot and blade, which allowed greater freedom and better balance.

The first international competition was held in 1882, and its format was very similar to that of future Olympic competitions.

Competitors were required to complete 23 prescribed figures, trace a figure of their choosing and skate a four-minute freestyle program.

Ten years later the International Skating body was formed and 15 years later the first World Championships were held in St Petersburg.

The competition, held in Nagano City itself is divided into four events: men's singles, ladies' singles, pairs and ice dance.

Both the singles and pairs events have two separate phases. Firstly there is a short program, in which skaters are required to perform certain elements, this is followed by a free program.

In the dance competition there are three phases: two compulsory dances, an original dance set to a rhythm and tempo set before the competition and a free dance.

© PA Sporting Life