Throughout history, French skaters have been known to be some of the most flamboyant, charismatic, passionate, unique skaters. They take their patinage artistique (figure skating) seriously, but not too seriously... a handful of French skaters have been known to put the audience first, the judges second. The French are always entertaining, always different,and always fantastique!
The first French skater I'm highlighting this week is Florent Amodio.
Florent has an interesting story, which the TV commentators repeat for us every time he skates. Apparently, Florent was abandoned in the streets of Brazil as a baby. He was found, brought back to France, and adopted. He was raised in Fremainville, Val-d'oise. He holds both French and Brazilian citizenship. Florent began skating at age four and was discovered by coach Bernard Glesser, who remained his coach until this season. Florent is now coached by renowned choreographer and coach, former Russian ice dancer, Nikolai Morozov.
Florent, the 2010 French National Champion, is only in his second year at the senior level, but is already making a name for himself. He skated well at the 2010 Olympics, finishing 12th, and took third place at the international NHK Trophy event at the end of October.
Florent's skating is totally fresh and unique. He skates to mainstream pop music, entertains audiences with dance moves, and has the ability to play a character on the ice. His long program this year, posted below, feature music from the band One Republic, Black Eyed Peas, and Michael Jackson. I just recently saw it and was completely entertained! Considering so many skaters are plagued by nerves and skate tentatively in competition, it was so refreshing to see Florent go out there and compete with no fear and put on an energetic, fun performance like he hadn't a care in the world. This is one skater who is certainly following in the great French skating tradition of knowing how to play to the crowd, and not compromising entertainment value in a program packed with triple jumps and required elements.
His skating has already won me over. I hope it wins you over, too.
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