Kagiyama and Sakamoto Lead Japan at National Championships

Yuma Kagiyama and Kaori Sakamoto, two of Japan’s brightest figure skating stars, took command on the opening day of the Japanese National Figure Skating Championships. Kagiyama, the Beijing Olympics silver medalist, led the men’s field with a strong short program performance, scoring 92.05 points. Rio Nakata and Kazuki Tomono followed closely behind. Notably, Nobunari Oda, a veteran skater competing in his final season, placed fifth.

In the women’s competition, reigning champion Kaori Sakamoto showcased her dominance with a score of 78.92 points. 16-year-old Mao Shimada, a rising star, secured second place, while Mone Chiba rounded out the top three. The fierce competition among these talented skaters promises an exciting conclusion to the championships.

The national championships hold immense significance as they determine Japan’s representatives for the upcoming World Figure Skating Championships in Boston. The top three men and women will earn the coveted spots on the national team, giving them a chance to qualify for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan.

The competition continues with the men’s free skate on Saturday, followed by the women’s free skate on Sunday. The eyes of the figure skating world will be on Kadoma, Osaka Prefecture, as these talented athletes strive for victory and a place on the world stage.

 By Vitalina Andrushchenko, Staff Writer