I loved the exhibition skating the other night. I felt for Michelle Kwan, her exhibition program was so beautiful, she was crying at the end, and you could see her thinking "Why couldn't I skate like this last night?" I think the reason Sarah Hughes skated as well as she did was because she wasn't aware she could win the gold medal. No pressure there, I think it got to Michelle and to Irina Slutskaya. Slutskaya had a wonderful exhibition skate also, she needs to change her programs a little bit. I know she is choosing more classical music to up her presentation marks, but her programs need to emphasize her perky personality. I just felt her long program weighted her down the other night.
I agree with your sentiments about Michelle. The pressure on her was beyond what anyone should have to endure.
Sarah had absolutely nothing to lose. I've seen this so many times, and as she said, "I just went out there to skate my best and have fun."
Michelle went there to get the gold she lost to another "kid", to save face etc. Way too much pressure to skate clean.
I gotta tell ya though, I was so happy to see that she stayed for the closing, and she looked happy anyway.
I also saw a camera shot of her clapping in the background as Sarah finished her program.
Altogether an enjoyable Olympics.
(I watch sports every 4 years.)