1.   Pairs now must perform a throw jump in the short program, which made for a number of unsightly sprawls here last week.

2.   Pairs skating is essentially skating performed in unison by partners, with the addition of daring and often dangerous lifts and throw jumps.

3.   Chinese pair Shen Xue and Zhao Hongbo overcame a shaky landing on the throw jump at the start to place second.

4.   The slow middle section of their program was filled with romantic dance moves, accented by a perfect throw triple loop jump.

5.   When they did another throw jump in a four-minute performance, Zhao made it look as easy as throwing a ball.