Mother of Canadian Figure Skater Joannie Rochette Died Before Competition

Tuesday night at the Women’s Figure Skating Short Program, only two days after her mother passed away, Canadian figure skater Joannie Rochette received her best score of the season. With 71.36 points, the skater takes third place as she awaits the long program on Thursday.

“It was very nice to have the warm welcome,” Rochette said after skating. “It was hard to handle, but I appreciate the support.” Her mother Thérèse passed away in Vancouver on Sunday, after flying in to watch her compete at the Olympic games.