Canadian couples in medal position at Egna Dance Trophy figure skating competition

EGNA, Italy – Canadian ice dancers stand second and third after Friday’s two pattern dances in novice competition at the Egna Dance Trophy figure skating event.

Miku Makita of Anmore, B.C., and Tyler Gunara of Burnaby, B.C. are second with 29.31 points and Nadiia Bashynska of Markham, Ont., and Peter Beaumont of Unionville, Ont., are third at 28.35 out of 15 entries.

‘’We are really happy with our result,’’ said Makita, 14. ‘’It’s our first international experience and we are learning a lot.’’

‘’Everything felt pretty good,’’ said Gunara, 15. ‘’We’re looking forward to a strong free dance as well.’’

Bashynska and Beaumont won the novice national ice dance title last month just ahead of Makita and Gunara.

‘’We’ve only skated for six months together and we have achieved so much,’’ said Bashynska, 14. ‘’Actually being here is something unbelievable for us.’’

‘’It’s great to have this opportunity to skate abroad,’’ added Beaumont, 16. ‘’We want to keep heading in the right direction.’’

Sofia Lukinskaya and Valriy Angelopol of Russia lead with 35.59.

The free dance is on Saturday.

Full results: Egna Dance Trophy