The 2024 All Japan Figure Skaking Championships are currently drawing considerable attention as athletes compete not only for national titles but also for qualification slots for international competitions, including the 2025 World Championships and the 2024 Four Continents Championships.
Held at the RACTAB Dome in Kadoma City, Osaka, the championship runs from December 19 to 22, 2024, with the highlight being the women’s free skating competition taking place on December 22. This year’s event not only showcases Japan’s top figure skaters but is also a pivotal step for many as they aim for places at the prestigious upcoming Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
Kaori Sakamoto, who is aiming for her fourth consecutive national title, had a strong opening with a score of 78.92 points. Close behind, Mao Shimada, who recently starred at the Junior Grand Prix Final, marked 75.58 points, demonstrating her continued rise as one of the top contenders within Japanese figure skating.
"I am really happy to have performed all my jumps without major mistakes, but I still feel there's more to improve," stated Shimada as she reflected on her performance, indicating her high hopes for the free skating segment. Her experience at international competitions is undeniably helping her prepare, as she seeks her first national title.
With participants from various skating clubs, the event spans multiple groups featuring promising junior skaters as well as seasoned competitors. For example, the first group of skaters includes members from Kinoshita Academy and other local clubs, hoping to make their mark on the national stage.
This year’s championships have far-reaching implications; not only are titles at stake, but the event also ranks highly on the selection criteria for international representation. Regarding Olympic qualification, the top finishers will secure spots based on their performances throughout the event—a significant motivation for all involved.
ICs— Individual competitors and teams earn points based on both their technical execution and artistic merit during their routines. The maximum number of qualifying representations includes up to three athletes from both the men and women’s divisions, making every performance during the championships potentially life-changing.
The event is widely covered across several broadcasting platforms, with major airtime scheduled on Fuji TV and its affiliates, ensuring fans and interested viewers can follow the exciting action live. The women's free skating at 15:45 on December 22 is slated to be one of the standout events, reflecting the intense preparation and talent of the athletes.
The unique qualification system for the championships allows for athletes with impressive international standings yet unable to compete due to injuries to receive exemptions. These nuanced rules underline the competitive structure found within Japanese figure skating, encouraging athletes to strive for excellence even when faced with challenges.
Overall, the 2024 All Japan Figure Skaking Championships not only provide riveting performances but also shape the future aspirations of Japan's elite skaters as they carve their paths toward Olympic glory, aided by the national stage and their talent. Viewers and fans alike are eagerly anticipating the free skating segment where competitors will showcase their skills, poise, and quest for success on one of the biggest platforms of their careers.
