Thursday, Feb. 25, 2010
Yu Na Kim and Mao Asada
At the women's long program competition in Vancouver, two figure skaters fighting for the gold had entire nations watching their every twist and jump. Yu Na Kim from South Korea and Mao Asada from Japan have captured the attention of their home countries — Japan is selling an Asada doll, and the earrings Kim wore for Tuesday's short program have become hot commodities. Their close race reflected the athletic tension between Japan and South Korea, who often play out their rivalry on the soccer pitch or baseball field. Kim took the gold, making it the first time a Korean has taken first place in women's figure skating. Asada won the silver medal, with Canadian Joannie Rochette taking bronze.