West Japan Figure Skating Championship Day 1: Nobunari Oda Wins and Secures All Japan Championship Spot

Nobunari Oda, a 37-year-old figure skater from the Osaka Skating Club, has won the men’s free skating event at the West Japan Figure Skating Championship. With a score of 146.08 points in the free skate and a total of 228.12 points, Oda secured his spot in the All Japan Championship, which will take place in December in Osaka.

Oda, who announced his retirement at the end of this season, performed a flawless free skate program, landing the opening quadruple toe loop and charming the audience with his skating. This is his first time competing on the big stage in 11 years, after returning to active duty in 2022.

Amin Kataisetake from Kansai University took second place with a score of 136.78 points in the free skate and a total of 206.45 points. Shunsuke Nakamura from Kinoshita Academy placed third with a score of 131.47 points in the free skate and a total of 198.38 points.

Oda’s win is a significant achievement, especially after facing setbacks last season when he came into contact with Japanese anti-doping regulations, which put his chances of participating in the All-Japan Championship at risk.