HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. – Republican White House challenger Mitt Romney conferred with his debate practice partner while President Barack Obama exercised before his final study review for Tuesday's debate, both hoping it would help them pull ahead in the razor-tight race.

"I feel fabulous," Obama told reporters on his way into a meeting with top aides after three days of intensive "debate camp" at a Virginia golf resort. The pressure was especially high on the Democratic incumbent after even he admitted he lost the first debate two weeks ago.

Romney smiled broadly as he exited his plane in New York, where his second chance to face off with the president was scheduled at Long Island's Hofstra University. Ohio Sen. Rob Portman, a constant companion in recent days as he played Obama in practice sessions, crouched in front of Romney's seat for much of the flight. They later joined aides in their hotel's auditorium for final preparations.