By Yoon Chul
Staff Reporter
Korean figure skating star Kim Yu-na continues her journey toward her first International Skating Union (ISU) World Figure Skating Championships titles in Los Angeles today.
The 18-year old Kim will perform 52nd of 56 skaters, while archival rival Mao Asada of Japan skates 54th.
``I have felt uncomfortable whenever I performed last, but now I feel better,'' Kim said.
``As I arrived early, I've had enough rest after practicing for two straight days. The break made me very comfortable as I've now been here a while. I'm in good shape. I'd like to keep up my pace until I skate in the competition,'' added Kim. During practice, Kim practiced a triple lutz-triple toe loop, which she has not used in either her short program or free skating so far.
Kim performed at the Junior Grand Prix in 2005, and scored 10.75 ― 10 base value points and .75 Grade of Execution (GOE) points.
GOE ranges from -3 to +3 points according to skaters' techniques. Base value represents points for standard skill. If a skater falls down during a performance, up to three GOE points are cut.
Kim's triple flip-triple toe loop has been recognized as a classic. In the 2007-2008 season she received two GOE points for her performance but the base value was 9.5, 0.5 lower than her 2005 score.
As Kim's original triple-triple combination is an important part of her performances, if she makes any mistakes, she may change her program to secure her first ISU World Championship trophy.
Kim performs her short program around 9 a.m. (Seoul time), Saturday. Her free skating can be seen Sunday morning.