Canada’s Phan surges to fourth at world junior figure skating championships

SOFIA, Bulgaria — Joseph Phan of Laval, Que., rocketed from 14th after the short program to fourth overall with a solid free skate in the men’s event on Saturday at the world junior figure skating championships.

Phan came within less than a point of the podium for Canada’s second heartbreaking fourth place finish this week.

Russia was 1-2 with Alexev Erokhov first at 231.52 and Artur Danielan second at 218.76. Matteo Rizzo of Italy was third at 211.58 and Phan earned 210.91. Alexei Krasnozhon of the U.S., the leader after the short, withdrew from the free skate.

“I was confident I would move up but I wasn’t expecting 10 spots,” said Phan, 16, who ranked third for his free skate. “There were some minor mistakes like some steps outs I usually don’t do. I fought my way through the program and I’m really proud of it.”

Conrad Orzel of Woodbridge, Ont., gained two spots for 13th.

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In women’s competition, Alexandra Trusova led Russia to a 1-2 finish.

Aurora Cotop of Toronto also made a nice gain in the standings rising from 21st to 17th.

“It’s the best I could have done for today,” said Cotop. “There were some elements that I hoped would be better but overall it was a great experience.”

The Canadian Press