GRENOBLE — Canadian ice dancers Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier couldn't overcome a fall in the rhythm dance at the ISU Grand Prix final to reach the podium with their free skate Saturday.
Toronto's Gilles and Poirier, from Unionville, Ont., who are three-time medallists in world championships, ranked second in the free skate to finish fifth overall.
Poirier caught his foot on the boards and fell Friday. The duo ranked last among the six teams heading into the free skate.
Reigning world champions Madison Chock and Evan Bates of the U.S. won both the rhythm dance and free skate to take the crown.
Marjorie Lajoie of Boucherville, Que., and Zachary Lagha of Saint-Hubert, Que., placed fourth ahead of their Canadian teammates.
Lajoie and Lagha were fourth after the rhythm dance and ranked fifth in the free skate.
Charlene Guignard and Marco Fabbri of Italy finished second and Lilah Fear and Lewis Gibson of Britain third.
Jazmine Desrochers and Kieran Thrasher were third in junior pairs to repeat as bronze medallists in the event.
Desrochers of Mississauga, Ont., and Thrasher of Amherstburg, Ont., ranked second after the short program.
Julia Quattrocchi of Laval, Que., and Simon Desmarais of Carignan, Que., placed sixth in their junior pairs final debut.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 7, 2024.
The Canadian Press
