Emily Hughes Withdraws from 2008 U.S. Figure Skating Championships

(1/14/08) - 2007 U.S. silver medalist Emily Hughes has withdrawn from the 2008 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Saint Paul, Minn., Jan. 20-27.

Hughes is suffering from a hip injury, which will prevent her not only from competing but also training.

“I'm extremely disappointed to have to miss the U.S. Championships,” Hughes said. “This is a competition I've been looking forward to all season.”

“This injury is just really bad timing,” Hughes continued. “I hope to be able to begin serious training again in four to six weeks.”

Hughes placed seventh at the 2006 Olympic Winter Games and has finished in the top 10 at each of the last two World Championships. In her two Grand Prix assignments this season, Hughes took fourth at both Skate America and Skate Canada.