Isabeau Levito Leads Skate America Short Program on October 18, 2024

The Skate America competition commenced on October 18, 2024, in the United States, serving as the opening event of the figure skating Grand Prix season. A highlight of the evening was Isabeau Levito's captivating performance, which drew inspiration from Holly Golightly, the iconic character portrayed by Audrey Hepburn in the classic film 'Breakfast at Tiffany’s.' Levito not only impressed the audience but also outperformed her rivals with a score of 68.43 points, marking a significant re-entry into competitive skating after a challenging previous season. Bradie Tennell, who has displayed remarkable resilience following a serious injury, took second place with a score of 66.99 points. Tennell sustained a broken ankle in practice, leading to an extensive recovery period throughout the last year. Her graceful execution of the short program illustrated her dedication and readiness for the challenges that lay ahead, as she overcame hurdles during her comeback. In addition to Levito and Tennell’s performances, the event also featured Japan’s Rinka Watanabe, who secured third place with a score of 66.54 points. The stakes are high for these athletes as they navigate their careers, eyeing spots for the 2026 Winter Olympics while showcasing resilience and determination. As the competition unfolds, the excitement builds for the next segments of Skate America, where further performances will determine not only personal accolades but also set the tone for the athletes’ trajectories in the Grand Prix season.