U.S. speed skating star Davis sings Japan's praises

Davis, who became the first black Winter Olympic individual event champion by capturing 1,000m gold in 2006, has even been dishing out advice to teenage Japanese teenage skater Miho Takagi. “I'm a big fan of Japan. I have a lucky pendant and I love Pikachu (a cartoon character printed on his skate guards). He's my greatest fan,” said the 27-year-old at the Olympic Oval at Richmond in Vancouver's suburbs, where he won 1500m gold at the world championships in 2009.Davis said he was delighted to pass on tips to 15-year-old Takagi.

“It was really nice to see someone so young on the circuit. It's an opportunity of a lifetime for her,” said the American.

“(I told her) not to get too distracted. Most of the time it can get distracting if you are not used to it. When I was 15 I was watching the Olympics on television.”

Davis admits he is also a fan of friend Joji Kato who will take part in the 500m. Davis added that his girlfriend will not be in Vancouver. “She's supporting me from afar,” he said.

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