Asada glides on to win third Grand Prix Title

Mao Asada (Getty Images)

Who's back in the game? MAO ASADA! The lady just put away her NHK disaster and displayed what can only be described as a champion's performance by skating into the lead in both the short and free programme. Skating to Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake, Asada is the first lady this season to break into the 120s by earning a 129.86, and an overall 196.80 points- way clear of USA's Ashley Wagner (181.93) and compatriot Akiko Suzuki (180.77) who won silver and bronze respectively. This marks her return into the circuit and the final since 2009. While the ice at the Sochi arena seemed to have jinxed all the ladies, only a doubling of a planned triple salchow and a possible two-foot on a 2A-3T flawed Asada's otherwise pristine programme. Perhaps it's early days, but it is a good thing that Mao won her title here in Sochi, where the upcoming 2014 Winter Games will be held. Though she has yet to fully compete consistently, her victory in Sochi should help her get in full stride in her campaign to win an Olympic Gold. With the Japanese Nationals, Four Continents and the World Championships looming in the background, Asada's season looks brighter than it has been for a while. Well done girl!