Former Canadian pairs champions Anabelle Langlois and her partner Cody Hay have pulled out of this month's world figure skating championships in Los Angeles, Skate Canada announced Monday. Langlois recently underwent additional surgery to remove screws and a metal plate from a spiral fracture to her lower right fibula.
Although Langlois, who suffered the leg injury in 2008, is recovering well, the surgery will keep her off the ice for the next few weeks.
"This entire season has been very challenging and disappointing," said Hay. "Although we tried our best to get back to compete this year, we have also had to think ahead to next season, bearing in mind that competing at the 2010 Olympics is our ultimate goal.
"We're hopeful that this most recent surgery will resolve any future problems and put us on the right track for next season."
Langlois, of Gatineau, Que., suffered the injury during a practice session on July 23 and had surgery a week later. The duo couldn't defend their Canadian title this year in Saskatoon, and also skipped the Four Continents event in Vancouver.
"It is unfortunate that Anabelle and Cody have to miss the season but the No. 1 priority for this team is a solid recovery to get Anabelle back to 100 per cent," said Mike Slipchuk, the high performance director for Skate Canada.
Hay, from Grand Prairie, Alta., said that Langlois is resting and doing well at home with her family.
"We also wanted to let people know how much we appreciate all the support we have received from Skate Canada and the fans throughout the years," he said. "We wish everyone the best at the worlds, and we can wait to get back on the ice."
Mylène Brodeur of Sandbridge Station, Que., and John Mattatall, from Wallace, N.S., will replace Langlois and Hay at the worlds, which is scheduled for March 22-28.
The pairs team finished third at the Canadian championships.
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