U.S. Figure Skating Championships: Day One Highlights

St. Louis Welcomes the Elite

The excitement in St. Louis is palpable as the U.S. Figure Skating Championships kick off, drawing the nation’s top talent to compete over four thrilling days. Tonight marks the beginning with the pairs and women’s short programs, where grace, athleticism, and artistry will take center stage.

Featured Competitors: Stars on Ice

Among the standout skaters, Amber Glenn, a two-time reigning national champion, is set to dazzle audiences as she strives for a third consecutive title. On the women’s side, another formidable contender, Alysa Liu, the defending world champion, is also in the spotlight, showcasing her skills and hoping to secure her spot for the upcoming Olympics.

In pairs skating, the defending national champions, Alisa Efimova and Misha Mitrofanov, will try to defend their title against a formidable lineup in this crucial stage as they prepare for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Not to be overlooked, Ilia Malinin, known as the “Quad God,” is anticipated to perform his short program, further elevating the level of competition.

Olympic Aspirations: The Road to Milano Cortina

This championship serves as a last litmus test for American skaters before their Olympic journey. All eyes are on the selections that will determine the U.S. Olympic team, which will be announced on January 11, just days after this event concludes. Each performance matters, and the athletes are eager to prove their mettle before making the leap to Milano Cortina.

Honoring the Past: A Tribute to Fallen Athletes

Before the competitions commenced, a solemn moment marked the opening ceremony as U.S. Figure Skating paid tribute to the 28 athletes, coaches, and parents lost in the tragic January 2025 plane crash. The incident, which involved an Army helicopter collision with a commercial flight near Washington D.C., profoundly impacted the skating community. A tribute video was displayed, honoring those who perished while supporting the sport they loved.

Results and Skater Updates: The Competition Unfolds

As results begin to unfold, early scores are coming in. For instance, Chelsea Liu and Ryan Bedard scored 62.34, while Linzy Fitzpatrick and Keyton Bearinger managed 54.56. More competitors are set to take the ice, with performances lined up throughout the evening.

The sequence of performances includes:

• Naomi Williams and Lachlan Lewer at 5:52 p.m.
• Audrey Shin and Balazs Nagy shortly after at 6:06 p.m.
• The esteemed pair Alisa Efimova and Misha Mitrofanov is scheduled to perform at 6:59 p.m.

Get Ready for the Broadcast

For those unable to attend in person, the events will be broadcasted for fans via USA Network and streaming platforms, ensuring that the excitement reaches every corner of the nation.

Notable Moments in Jumps: The Technical Side of Skating

Understanding the skill showcases in figure skating includes recognizing the different types of jumps involved. From toe loops and Lutz jumps to the complex Axel, which involves a forward takeoff and a backward landing, the technical expertise displayed is as crucial as the artistic performance.

What’s Next: Skater Lineup

A glimpse into tonight’s Women’s Short Program lineup reveals:

• Anabel Wallace at 8:35 p.m.
• Elyce Lin-Gracey at 10:19 p.m.
• Amber Glenn last skater at 10:49 p.m., performing to Madonna’s “Like a Prayer.”

Ice Dancing vs. Figure Skating: Understanding the Difference

Furthermore, a key distinction in styles presents itself in the comparison between ice dancing and figure skating. Ice dancing is characterized by its rhythm and dance elements, avoiding jumps and focuses on artistic presentation and choreography, while figure skating pairs excel in the technical execution of jumps and lifts.

As the championships progress, fans can anticipate more heart-stopping performances and a wealth of talent showcasing why they have earned their spot on the national stage. The atmosphere buzzes with potential Olympians eager to make history not only at the championships but also on the grand Olympic stage in February.

Stay tuned for all the updates, scores, and exciting performances from the U.S. Figure Skating Championships as the journey to the Olympic Games unfolds!