China's world champions Shen Xue and Zhao Hongbo topped the pairs short program at Skate Canada International Thursday night in Halifax. 

The 2002 Olympic bronze medallists and 2003 world champions staged a beautiful show to lead the category with 66.48 points.

Another Chinese pair, Pang Qing and Tong Jian, finished second with 64.54 points.

Valerie Marcoux and Craig Buntin of Canada were third heading into Friday's free skate.

Skate Canada is the second event on the Grand Prix circuit.

Shen Xue (L) and Zhao Hongbo

(CRI October 29, 2004)