Gilles, Poirier struggle at Grand Prix final after fall in rhythm dance

By The Canadian Press on December 6, 2024.

GRENOBLE, France – Canadian ice dancers Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier have an uphill climb at the ISU Grand Prix Final.

Toronto’s Gilles and Poirier, from Unionville, Ont., finished last out of six teams in Friday’s rhythm dance after an uncharacteristic fall when Poirier caught his foot on the boards.

Gilles and Poirier, Grand Prix Final champions in 2022 and bronze medallists in 2023, settled for a score of 72.15 points.

The duo came into the competition ranked third in the Grand Prix standings after capturing their fifth-straight Skate Canada International title and a silver medal at the Finlandia Trophy.

Marjorie Lajoie of Boucherville, Que., and Zachary Lagha of Saint-Hubert, Que., were the top Canadian team heading into Saturday’s free dance after finishing fourth in the rhythm dance with 77.73 points.

Reigning world champions Madison Chock and Evan Bates of the United States were first, followed by Charlene Guignard and Marco Fabbri of Italy and Lilah Fear and Lewis Gibson of Britain.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 6, 2024.

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