Yamaguchi Is Only U.S. Skater Entered in French Competition

The Trophee Lalique in Albertville, France, this month is considered the most important international contest between now and the 1992 Winter Olympics next February because it gives figure skaters an opportunity to compete on the rink that will be used for the Games.

But the United States is sending only one of its 1991 national champions, Kristi Yamaguchi of Fremont, Calif.

The U.S. Figure Skating Assn., announced Friday that men’s champion Todd Eldredge of San Diego, pairs champions Natasha Kuchiki of Canoga Park and Todd Sand of Costa Mesa, and dance champions Elizabeth Punsalan and Jerod Swallow of Colorado Springs will not attend because of injuries or illness.

Another U.S. skater, Christopher Bowman of Van Nuys, withdrew last week because of injuries suffered when he was mugged in Toronto.

All, according to the USFSA, are expected to recover in time to compete at the 1992 national championships next January in Orlando, Fla., where the Olympic team will be chosen.