ISU Allows Joannie Rochette To Peform Tribute Routine On TV

Rochette Given Green Light By ISU To Perform Tribute Routine

ISU cleared Canadian skater Joannie Rochette to perform the program she skated at the Olympics as a tribute to her late mother as part of a TV special. ISU rules bar skaters from opting out for an exhibition gala over an ISU-sanctioned event. Rochette withdrew from this year's Worlds that are taking place at the end of March, citing a significant loss of training time as her reason for withdrawal. But, ISU made an exception for Rochette who lost her mother a month ago to heart attack. ISU reached an agreement with Skate Canada that regulates the sport in Canada to allow Rochette to perform the tribute routine that features Celine Dions' song Vole as part of the ABC's Thin Ice show.

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Skate Canada's CEO William Thompson said, "We appreciate the ISU worked with us to find a solution for this situation. They have agreed to relax ISU rule 136 for Joannie in this instance, due to the unique and extenuating circumstances of this particular request.  We want to thank the ISU for their consideration and understanding in reviewing this in light of Joannie's situation.”

Rochette is also set to take part in four "Stars On Ice" shows next month.