KADOMA, Osaka Pref. — Mao Asada posted the top score in the women's short program at the Japan Figure Skating National Championships on Saturday, strengthening her chances of securing a spot in the Vancouver Olympics.
Mao had a triple axel downgraded to a double but was solid throughout, receiving 69.12 points.
Yukari Nakano, who also is bidding for one of two places remaining for Vancouver, was second with 68.90 points. Miki Ando was third with 68.68.