The absence of two-time world champion Mao Asada from the recent Japan Skating Federation training camp provided more questions than answers.
Word circulated through various reports that Mao was "exhausted" after the delayed world championships were followed by preparations for her new programs for the upcoming Grand Prix season, and appearances in several shows, many of which benefited relief efforts for the March 11 disaster.
While certainly deserving of a break after skating nonstop for years, the lack of information about Mao's condition was a bit unsettling, especially considering she was coming off a poor season by her standards.