IN BRIEF : Doran Takes Lead in Figure Skating

Danny Doran, a perennial contender at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships but rarely a medalist, was the surprise leader today after men’s compulsories.

Doran, 22, of Denver, finished fourth the last two years in this event after taking third in 1986. He usually does well in figures, although he badly botched them last year and it might have cost him a spot on the Olympic team.

He came in second on the first figure, a left outside counter, and then mastered the right back paragraph loop on the second figure. The compulsories are worth 20% of the total score.

The original (formerly short) program will be held Friday night, with the free skate set for Sunday.

Chris Bowman and Paul Wylie, heavy favorites to grab the two available berths for the world championships, faltered in the opening round. Bowman wound up fourth and Wylie was sixth.