Energy, fans among eight reasons Weir will enjoy U.S. Championships

Johnny Weir has plenty of reasons to look forward to the U.S. Championships. Since his sixth place senior debut in 2001, Weir has been among the top contenders for the national title. He claimed the top spot in the men's event in 2004, 2005 and 2006, before winning his first bronze medal last year.

But medal winning performances are not the only reason Weir enjoys the nationals. He recently sat down with Figure Skaters Online to discuss his eight favorite things about the event.

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1. The energy. Nationals is the biggest event of the year because it qualifies skaters for the World Championships, World Junior Championships and Four Continents, so everyone brings their 'A' game. Our country is so big and we all have friends far away so we're all very excited to see each other.

2. The new faces. As I get older it is nice to see the fresh faces of U.S. skating. There is always someone with a surprise.

3. The performing. Nationals always takes place in a huge arena with a lot of fans and spectators so it makes it so fun for us to perform and show what we work for.

4. The fashion statements. It seems like everyone gets more "gussied" every year. I think Nationals is the time when everyone gets dressed up and classed up to see all of their friends, all the judges and to make a good impression. I think it's funny actually.

5. The after parties. When the competition is over, and the stress is gone, we all have such a good time being with people we don't see often and making parties.

6. Success. I've had many so many good memories from different Nationals and being proud of your
accomplishments is so important. Landing a new element, skating in your first coliseum, winning a medal, they're all great memories.

7. Gossip folks. The second you walk off the airplane, everyone knows. By the time you make your
first coffee run the first morning you are there, everyone knows what you wore and how much you weigh. It's so entertaining.

8. The fans. Last year alone I had fans come from across the country, and across the world from Russia,
Japan and Ukraine to see me compete. We perform for our fans and they make all events so special for us.
It makes us more comfortable standing in the middle of the huge stadium knowing there are people supporting us.

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For more information on Johnny Weir, visit his official Web site Johnny Weir Online at www.figureskatersonline.com/johnnyweir/.

Figure Skaters Online's Guide to the 2008 U.S. Championships is
written and produced by Figure Skaters Online in cooperation with the athletes and staff.

Photographs are courtesy of Leah Adams unless otherwise noted.