Thank GOD for a good Russian competition. Rostelecom this past weekend felt like the first ~real~ competition of the year. Even though Skate America went off without a hitch, the lack of an audience and the roster were not nearly as competitive as this event. The Russian's really know how to make things interesting. So much drama and enthusiasm. We love to see it.
Plus, I think Rostelecom's TV streams should serve as an example to other federations. I was enthralled by the split screen warm up footage, plus the coach cams and full K&C camera angles made the whole thing more engaging. Let's do this more in the future.
#3: Europeans in the mix
I know that GP events this year are very different- 2 of them were straight up cancelled, and the leftovers have been filled with regional skaters in addition to the big-names. However, I think that the addition of regional skaters and "lower-level" Russian's at Rostelecom was...pleasantly exciting. There were skaters that I don't usually see outside the European Championships or the 1st group at Russian Nationals, and I like the fact that this served as an opportunity for them to perform and gain experience. Big round of applause for all the competitors!
#2: Mikhail Kolyada...Again
I think I've included Kolyada on every top 3 this year- don't come for me. This is turning into a Mikhail Kolyada Stan Account. I'm just obsessed with this free program, and this performance at Rostelecom was ethereal.
#1: The Empress
I know that figure skating fans bash on Liza Tuktamysheva for a lack of choreography or transcendent skating skills, but I love her and Mishin's philosophy that her power can give her the edge to continue succeeding, even when her competitors are half her size and/or age. I was a little sad with the quality of the short program (especially after she opened with such a great 3A), but her free skate energy was electric. Even with the lack of explicit choreography, she was so in her element and I was rooting for her the whole way. Yes, Kostornaia had noticeably better skating skills (especially seeing them back to back...Yikes), but I do think this was a deserved win considering her strong technical content. She did do 2 3As, after all. #TrustTheEmpress
Honorable Mentions
Ilya Yablokov and his ice cream
It's becoming tradition for the Russian's to have ice cream in the kiss and cry but no one ever eats it. Shout out to Ilya for doing what none of the others were brave enough to do. I've included my favorite fancam below so that you can laugh with me.
Eva Lotta Kiibus's Harry Styles Inspiration
Eva-Lotta is one of my favorite European skaters and I was so glad to see her 1) invited to Rostelecom and 2) put out a great free program. However, my love for her has only grown because her "Sign of the Times" short program. Not only is she skating to Harry's music, but her costume is FOR SURE inspired by Harry's black lace 2019 Met Gala costume. I see you, Eva-Lotta. You may fool some people, but you can't fool a fellow fan.
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