9. Michelle Kwan won 9 U.S. National Championships(1996, 1998-2005) in her career. In winning each title, how many times was Michelle not in the lead going into the long program?
From Quiz U.S. Figure Skaters
Answer:
2
Michelle won nearly every short program at the US Nationals for each title that she won. However, there were two competitions where she had to come from behind to win the title. The first time came in 2000. During the Short Program, Michelle fell on her solo Triple jump(a Toe-Loop). However, the rest of her skating was strong enough to keep her in 3rd place, behind Sasha Cohen(1st place; this was her debut at the Senior Nationals) and Sarah Hughes(2nd place). During the long program, all of the ladies in the top 3 had a fall on a jump during their programs, but Michelle had the presentation marks to compensate for the lack of technical prowess. In 2004, Michelle had a small correction on the landing of her Double Axel where she had to circle her arms to save the landing. This small bobble would be just enough to give Sasha Cohen the lead after the Short Program, with Michelle in 2nd. During the Long Program, Sasha Cohen had a fall in her Free Skate which opened the door for Michelle. Michelle, however, really did not need it. That night, Michelle delivered one of her greatest performances ever, earning 7 6.0's for presentation.