Olympian view: From Paris, Lysacek saw Sochi Winter Games on the horizon
Skater's comeback plans began during summer vacation
Globetrotting by Philip Hersh
2:37 p.m. CDT, September 24, 2011
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Lysacek’s first competition could be Skate America Oct. 21-23, although he is not ready to commit to that.
“I’m not a point where I think I’m ready to lay it on the line just yet,” he said. “To a certain extent, every competition now will be going all in. I’m not necessarily a gambling man that takes crazy chances. I would like to know I’m really in shape before I step out there.”
Lysacek said his decision likely would come after he performs his new programs – with music he will not yet disclose – before a panel of judge monitors. He is working on three different permutations of short programs and intends to have a quadruple jump in the free skate. Lysacek wants to see the effect of scoring changes that limit some spin elements and reduce the value of the triple axel, the most difficult jump he did in winning the 2010Olympics.
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He may skate at the 2012 U.S. Championships in January even if he does not skate on the Grand Prix Circuit this fall.
“I’d love to do nationals," he said. "I have spent the past four months training, so I would hope it’s not for nothing.”
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