European Championships: Ice Dance Preview

Pechalat/Bourzat from France are the favourite to win gold at 2012 European championship. The reigning European champion assured a bronze medal at Grand Prix final this fall, getting the highest score among all of the European dance teams.

Pechalat/Bourzat free dance at grand prix final http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IbngjuptYiQ

Two Russian teams battle for a medal in Sheffield: Bobrova/Soloviev and Ilinykh/Katslapov.

Bobrova/Soloviev had a terrific fall season winning at Cup of China and gaining a spot into the final. They were also crowned Russian Champions over the young couple Ilinykh/Katslapov coached by Morozov.

Bobrova/Soloviev free dance at grand prix final http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6GRdWygP5Y&feature=related

Ilinykh/Katslapov free dance at Trophee Eric Bompard http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iX_2RPlKfIo&feature=related

Also coached by Morozov, Cappellini/Lanotte of Italy improved their skating abilities this season placing third at both Skate Canada and Trophee Eric Bompard with a suggestive free.

Cappellini/Lanotte free dance at Trophee Eric Bompard http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Z4wgqkRNF8&feature=related

Podium picks

Gold: Pechalat/Bourzat

Silver: Bobrova/Soloviev

Bronze: Cappellini/Lanotte