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2.26.2010

queen yu-na


First things first: John Park wasn't eliminated from American Idol this week.

That said, Kim Yu-Na is the Queen. Undisputed. With a record-shattering score of 228.56 points, she took the gold medal in figure skating last night -- and it was one of the most amazing, stunning performances an Olympic audience has ever seen: Kim shatters record with 228.56 points.

Mao Asada of Japan won the silver medal, but it wasn't even close. It's South Korea's first medal at the Winter Olympics in a sport other than speedskating, and you can bet your ass it set off citywide celebrations in Seoul: As Kim Raises the Bar, South Korea Delights.

I have to admit, I've never really been much of a follower of figure skating... until I watched Kim Yu-Na skate in Tuesday night's short program. She made me a believer. I saw what the hype was all about, and I couldn't wait to see what she did next. Tell me I'm not the only one who was completely dazzled by this athlete.

By the way, I have to give major props to 16-year-old rising star Mirai Nagasu, who had to perform last... and totally skated her ass off, placing fourth with charm, grace and gusto. Indeed, she is the future.