Gusmeroli, whose career hasn't been the same since she won the bronze medal at the 1997 world championships, has been bothered recently with a foot injury. She participated in practice Thursday but skipped both Friday practices. Her withdrawal left 11 competitors in the ladies event. The long-program final is tonight. The top six ladies and men, along with the top five pairs and dance teams, will qualify for the International Skating Union's Grand Prix Series Final on Jan. 14-16 in Lyon, France.
Prize money is awarded to the top five finishers in each event.