December 10th, 2002

Miriam Manzano's dreams are all coming true in 2002. A silver medal in Vienna, a Grand Prix assignment at Skate America and winning the National title last weekend, securing the coveted placement on the 2003 World team.

"I managed to win the short and long and boy was it sweet... It really did mean the world to me, being National Champion is a very special privilege... one that I was reminded of each and every day, so I guess that's one of the reasons I was so keen to win again. I was blessed to have my supportive family as well as my wonderful boyfriend, Antoni, who is absolutely the best thing that has happened to me, with me to share the moment."

Anthony Liu won his 7th consecutive title despite a knee injury which has prohibited his participation in any ISU Grand Prix events this season. After a short vacation with his family in Australia, Liu will return to the US to continue his preparation for Worlds. Bradley Santer, who has been plagued by injuries the past year, placed second and secured his place on the World team.

Stephanie Zhang won the Junior Women's competition at the National Championships on Thursday. Emilia Ahsan, who won the short program, placed 2nd. Australia will send two women to 2003 Junior Worlds.

June 26th, 2002

WHO IS REG PARK?
The Sydney Morning Herald.

Congratulations to Reg Park, 72, a well-known and universally respected skating coach, who was recently honoured with The Australian Sports Medal for his contribution to the development and advancement of ice skating in Australia.

Skating since age 9, he appeared in ice shows as a child in Melbourne. In 1949 he was the Victorian and Australian Champion. In 1953 he became the World Open Professional Champion, following which he skated professionally in Europe in ice shows. He was also a choreographer at the Wembley Empire Pool in the UK for many years.

Moving to Canberra to coach in 1981, he created the Christmas Ice Follies Show, which he has directed annually since then. He is the coach of the 2001 Ladies Champion, the most gracious Miriam Manzano.

An accredited Professional Ice-skating Judge he still judges the Professional World Championships.

In his spare time he paints, speaks 5 languages and in 1999 was the recipient of the Australian Year of the Elderly Persons Achievement Award.

Courtesy of Claire Reid - ACT