Multiple ISU Grand Prix medalist Mariah Bell (USA) captured the lead over teammate Bradie Tennell as the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Guaranteed Rate Skate America opened with Ladies Short Program Friday in Las Vegas (USA). Audrey Shin (USA) sits in third place.
Skating to “Glitter in the Air” by Pink, Bell landed a double Axel, triple flip-triple toeloop combination and triple Lutz. The 2020 National silver medalist collected a level four for her spins and footwork to score 76.48 points. “Obviously this is an interesting situation that we are all in. Even if there wasn’t a crowd, I really enjoyed performing. I had a great time,” Bell said, and revealed that she skated in her long program costume as she did not feel comfortable with her Short Program costume. “I didn’t have a back-up and I just thought my long program costume sits well, so I’ll just wear that. It will be round two tomorrow with it,” she added.
Mariah Bell (USA) at the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating (USA) 2020 © International Skating Union (ISU)
Tennell’s performance to “Moderation” by Florence and the Machine was highlighted by a triple Flip, double Axel and difficult spins and step, but she under-rotated the back end of her triple Lutz-triple toe combination. The 2020 ISU Four Continents Figure Skating bronze medalist earned 73.29 points. “We are all so grateful to be here and that we have this opportunity. I also had a really great time performing today,” the 22-year-old commented. “It’s been so long since we’ve been able to go out there and skate our programs for people. Even if they are not here in person with us, we appreciate all the support they give us from afar.”
Bradie Tennell (USA) at the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating (USA) 2020 © International Skating Union (ISU)
Shin delivered a strong performance to “The Giving” by Michael W. Smith, hitting a triple Lutz-triple toe, double Axel and triple loop to pick up 69.77 points. “I had a great time performing at my first senior Grand Prix,” the 16-year-old said. “I was just really excited getting back out there and start competing again. Coming in, I prepared very well. I will just focus on the long program, taking one element at a time,” she added.
Audrey Shin (USA) at the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating (USA) 2020 © International Skating Union (ISU)
2017 National Champion Karen Chen currently ranks fourth at 68.13 points, followed by Amber Glenn with 67.85 points.
For full results, entry lists and further information regarding the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Series please visit: https://isu.org/GrandPrix.
Where to watch and follow the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating 2020?
The ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating will be live streamed on the Skating ISU YouTube Channel.
Geo-restrictions will apply in markets where TV rights are in place. You will find the full list in the Where to Watch news here.
Subscribe to the Skating ISU YouTube Channel to receive alerts when the live streams start and when new videos are posted.
Stay connected with the ISU Social Media:
YouTube: Skating ISU
IG: @ISUFigureSkating
Facebook: @ISUFigureSkating
Twitter: @ISU_Figure
Follow the conversation with #GPFigure and #FigureSkating.
ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating 2020
- 2020 Guaranteed Rate Skate America, Las Vegas (USA) – October 22-24
- Shiseido Cup of China, Chongqing (CHN) – November 6-8
- Rostelecom Cup, Moscow (RUS) – November 20-22
- NHK Trophy, Osaka (JPN) – November 27-29
- ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final – Beijing (CHN)postponed
The ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final that was to be held as an Olympic Test Event on December 10-13 has been postponed. The ISU, in consultation with all stakeholders and considering the pandemic developments, is evaluating the continuation of the 2020/21 season, in particular the re-scheduling possibilities for the important Olympic Test Events.
About ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Series
The ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Series started in 1995 (previously known a s the ISU Champions Series) and consists of six invitational international senior events and the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final. Due to the current situation, the usual selection criteria do not apply. Please see the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating page for further information.