SHANGHAI, Feb.2 (Xinhua) -- Japanese figure skating sensation Yuma Kagiyama achieved his seasonal best in the men's short program as the ISU Four Continents Championships 2024 kicked off here on Thursday.

The ISU Grand Prix Final bronze medalist claimed a season-best score of 106.82 points in short program and is aiming for qualification to the illustrious "300-point club."

"I haven't won the championship of the Four Continents yet, so of course, I hope to improve my score. Today, I gave my all and skated to the best of my ability, so I can rest assured for the time being. And, of course, I'm considering breaking through the barrier of 300 points," he said.

Japan's Shun Sato placed second, followed by Cha Jun-hwan from South Korea.

Cha, the silver medalist in the 2023 worlds and the 2022 Four Continents champion, has struggled with injuries this season.

"I withdrew from several competitions at the beginning of the season due to injuries. It was kind of a comeback from that. I just gave my best, I think I did well. So I'm satisfied," he said.

"During the season, I had an injury, so I couldn't really train as much as in other seasons, but I kept working on it, so it'll get better and better," added Cha.

Two-time bronze medalist of world championships, Jin Boyang of China, ranked fifth after the men's short program.

Mone Chiba of Japan, the 2023 Four Continents bronze medalist, skated to the lead in the women's short program. The Japanese national silver medalist set a new seasonal best of 71.10 points.

"I was very nervous, but I landed all my jumps which was very good, and I was very relieved. The expression from the beginning to the end is also very good," the 18-year-old commented.

"I will not say I don't care about last year's medal, but I tried not to care and focus on this competition. In the free skating I should also give my best."

South Korea's Kim Chae-yeon is not far behind in second place, while American Ava Marie Ziegler placed third temporarily in the Women's competition.

Canadian pair Deanna Stellato-Dudek and Maxime Deschamps ranked on top after the pairs short program. Enditem

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