SASKATOON, Canada - Japan's Mone Chiba won her maiden ISU Grand Prix series event Saturday after topping the free skate to keep her overnight lead from the short program at Skate Canada International.
Chiba's 17-year-old compatriot and series debutant Ami Nakai came third at Sasktel Centre, which secured her place at the Grand Prix Final in Nagoya in December after she won her debut and series-opening event, the Grand Prix de France, in mid-October.
Chiba landed several triple jumps on the quarter in the free skate but still registered 144.94 for 217.23 points in total, staying above Isabeau Levito after the American underrotated her own triple jumps in the segment to settle for 137.97 and 209.77 overall.
"There were some dodgy jumps, but I was happy I managed to produce the best performance for today despite the nervousness," said the 20-year-old Chiba, who won the bronze medal at the world championships last season.
"I'll savor the title while uncovering the areas to reflect on at the same time and will look to improve them."
Nakai had a near mistake-free performance to score 136.54 on the day and 203.09 in total, enough to secure her a place on the podium as she became the first Grand Prix Final entrant this season.
"I'm surprised to have clinched my place in the final. I'll look to have practices that will boost my confidence," the youngster said.
"My other jumps (than the triple axel) have become stable compared to when I was competing at the junior level. I'm happy to have found new areas of development."
Japan's Yuna Aoki placed sixth on 182.85 after she finished in that position both days.
