This and That: 2021 Russian Test Skates & Lombardia Trophy (Team Tutberidze Dominates)

[@shantarakelian1998]

Time Stamps: 0:00:00 Introduction 2:08 Eteri Pyramid or Russian Ladies Pyramid. I thought it was hilarious and honestly truthful! I would put Elizaveta up their with Trusova. I thought that both skaters got the “better music” this season. I did not like either of Anna’s, Alena’s or Kamila’s music. Daria’s programs aren’t great but not offensive. Maiia not a fan of the programs. In all honesty judging what I saw I would have this as the Olympic team (please do not come after me about this, this is just My opinion, everyone has a right to have an opinion): Alexandra, Elizaveta, TBD (wasn’t impressed by everyone other then them two) Sinitsyna’s short was nice same with Nugumanova. But they didn’t fare very well in the free but it’s too early to tell. Elizaveta Short program was stunning I felt something I had goosebumps everywhere and I say that to very few programs. All of Eteris programs look all the same from last year and he year before and etc. I was only interested with Sasha. 3:03 Evgenia Medvedeva interview 3:21 Alina Zagitova Russian Test Skates: 3:57 Daria Usacheva 10:12 Ksenia Sinitsyna 10:49 Sofia Samodurova 11:22 Maiia Khromykh 15:51 USFS Champs Camp secrecy Russia and when skaters retire what will happen Russian Dominance 18:24 Kamila Valieva still do not like Bolero and the SP is like Storm 2.0 quite uninteresting. Not sure if she will make the team in December. Idk maybe she will prove us all wrong. 23:16 Anna Shcherbakova 28:23 Aliona Kostornaia 32:32 Alexandra Trusova 37:21 Empress Elizaveta Tuktamysheva!!! Loved the short!! Lombardia Trophy 39:51 Alysa Liu 43:33 MidAtlantics 45:16 Eteri (Tarasova/Morozov) 47:31 CiRcLeS 51:08 disappointed with Moskvina Teams 57:03 Kolyada Schindler’s List 58:26 men were bad in the free 58:48 Aliev going to Nebelhorn 59:49 Danielian 1:00:48 Yaro Panoit (Withdrawal from Lombardia, next event is Skate America) boot issues (new boots coming soon) 1:01:49 Daniel Grassl 1:02:35 Samarin 1:03:06 Semenenko 1:03:43 Surya Bonaly Four Seasons-Kostornaia music is cursed 1:05:10 Lu Chen 1:05:43 Ice Dance 1:06:11 Twizzaster very clever Dave!! Loved it made me laugh 1:11:06 Tonya Harding 1:11:26 CYA live precise moment when figure skating went to no return

[@GrippiAlex]

I loved Lizas short too🇦🇺

[@FSexpert1]

Thank you! May God bless you

[@QQ-wl6yt]

Cursed music 😂

[@kylstv9616]

thank you!

[@LexyMay93]

What I love about Trusova is that she's a natural competitor. I feel like she was the only one really enjoying herself there. Most of the other girls looked frightened and really worried, and it was only the Test Skates. It'll take a strong mind to survive this season in Russia!

[@yolandaguo7153]

This is because Trusova always peaks early in the start of the season and the rest girls peak later at competitions that really matter. Opposite to what you said, at major events Trusova always looked worried and panicked while the other girls seemed to enjoy themselves, for example, 2020 Rusnats and 2021 Worlds. I don’t think this is a good thing for Trusova.

[@mooony94]

@@yolandaguo7153 yep, exactly why she has no major title despite always being a quads queen, she needs to follow Nathan's strategy of smart pacing if she wants to win major titles.

[@yolandaguo7153]

@EE DR What I said about her was based on her performance in the past two seasons. Who calls the truth a silly thing is sillier, I’m afraid. Whether she peaks only here or she can keep such form in the following competitions, let’s wait and see.

[@Boymanjusri]

Sasha needs to see a sports psychologist. With all her ability she should be unbeatable, yet she won no major events yet after three years! So many opportunities: Russian nationals; Grand Prix final, world championships.. are we dreaming she is going to deliver two clean programs at Olympics? I am afraid not…

[@dominiquedominique6462]

Sasha is amazing. And something that is really deliberating with her among other Russians is that she really looks like she is having fun! And I also loved to see that she continues to focus on her technical skills. It truly is refreshing and nicely bold!

[@Passion4Fashion2023]

I agree. Both oh her programs fit her well.

[@grisgris6908]

I’d love to see Trusova really rock out when the guitars start riffing. I was unsure about the Cruella music in the beginning but LOVE that it just threw away the pretense that the program would have any choreo and just let Trusova rip with her amazing tech content

[@emallace447]

Why is that a good thing? Figure skating is more than a jump drill....

[@larissakoroleva]

@@emallace447 yes, but still the technical score is there. So... what's your point? you want to watch those jumping doubles and making arm waves? I don't.

[@user-jy8zb2wc8l]

Achieving feats that no one else in ladies having is not what a jump drill is... It's just as innovative in pushing a sport forward as art does in challenging boundaries. Agree with just letting Trusova work on what she is good at, she can build in artistry after that. These things take time. Critiques should be for skaters who are doing the same thing over and over, not for skaters who are still developing.

[@solarisxyz3405]

@@emallace447 It is a sport with artistry and not artistry with a little bit of sport. Additionaly I think that some people are confused about what artistry really means. Artistry means that what you are presenting to the audience has meaning or a message. It does not mean that you dance a lot. Trusovas short and long program both have a message. The strongest from all the russian girls I would say. Trusova has also shown the most of her personality. To say that she has no artistry is wrong. You can dance a lot and still be not artistic. Trusova has also shown the most versatilitiy with her programs. Is there any type of music she has not tried yet? She shows that she is brave enough to try new things and she also shows that she is brave enough to compete the physically most difficult programs. I admire her for that.

[@biscuitcase83]

@@emallace447 It wasn't just a jump drill, and besides...like if or not the jumps make or break a program. 5 quads...very few MEN can equal that...and it's hardly like she has no performance ability at all

[@yujames9712]

My thoughts: actually love trusovas music for both short and especially long. Cruela is so sassy. And she’s unbeatable for Olympic gold with 5 quads. Love shcherbakovas music as well and the transition to the second half was amazing. She’s grown artistically and seems even more expressive. Kostornaia is classy as usual nut her jumps look a bit umderrotated. A bit sad for kamila valieva. She must have immense pressure and she was nervous and it showed. Her bolero is still abysmal.

[@raksan4083]

Who's program is more impressive without the Jumps and add up the GOE's

[@mustyfan1584]

I just don’t agree that she’s unbeatable with 5 quads. We said the same thing going into the 2019-2020 season and look what happened. If Kamila can land 3 quads and her triple axels, that will be very difficult for Sasha to beat.

[@yujames9712]

@@mustyfan1584 well trusova has finally had a relatively clean 5 quad long. But valieva has still yet to skate clean her upgraded long program clean. I think if trusova doesn't go clean in the grand prix valieva should just stick to 2 quad toes and 2 triple axels to increase her cache with the judges.

[@mmg1800]

I wish she gave us some sassy Cruella moves, she needs to perform, if she does it she will win everything.

[@larissakoroleva]

@@sfs6501 Anna will skate her program in in the SP too. She is very artistic. Hope she recovers in time. Loved loved loved Sasha in her both programs! Wish both of the girls good luck + Kamila too. Well, I wish good luck to all of them - Liza, Maya, Dasha, Alena - let the best ones win! There are only 3 spots on the team, so..... inevitably, 4 of the best 7 will not make it :(

[@kerryperryman3025]

Sherbakova is a total warrior. If this is a mental game, she wins every time in my opinion.

[@sfs6501]

Agree. She didnt even look bothered by the fact that she didnt have 3A and quads now while the other top girls have. The 3x Rusnats + World titles didnt seem like putting a pressure on her too. Unbelievable

[@praetorrus]

@@sfs6501 One of her most important feats is that she loves her craft much more than herself in that craft.

[@rop888]

Yep and she'll get back a quad. She's not stressing over anything. And now Sasha has all the Olympic pressure on her while people go back to ignoring Anna while she quietly works.

[@hannibaljustincase9985]

@@rop888 not to mention, in 2019/2020 season Sasha had a great skate at Japan Open and it only went down hill. a single clean skate at the beginning of the season does not make you a champion

[@praetorrus]

@@rop888 Yep, Anna is in a really good position right now, as all the spotlights and pressure is on Sasha and Kamila. Just hope for no more injuries and she’ll definitely gonna be fire by November.

[@jilljalili5365]

Russian Test Skates is such a wonderful gift, and I think you don't appreciate it until you flip over and try to watch some of another competition. (Lombardia). I wish Japan would broadcast a similar 'test skates', it is crazy that they do not. How do you allow your skaters to develop a fan base (other than Hanyu) if you never allow footage of your skaters to be seen outside the country? Unrelated-but how much do you think RusFed had to pay for the use of Cruella? (I thinking ALOT)

[@ColonelGreen]

Japan’s skaters are seen internationally at actual competitions.

[@larissakoroleva]

@@ColonelGreen As everyone else. But showing internal competitions adds to it, you know. Everyone knows, the competition for different disciplines will be among Russians, Japanese, Chinese, Americans and Canadians, with some sprinkles of other countries (e.g. France, Italy). Unless Japan wants to keep it secret, which is okay.

[@larissakoroleva]

Interesting! I did not know that figure skaters or their federations had to pay for using the music. I kinda thought that it was free since the artists should be proud their music is being used for the competitions. Wow. Well, if that's the case and the Federations need to pay, well, I'd say the Russian Figure Skating Federation is subsidized by the government (I would think) and they have money to pay for that. So it's ok. don't you worry about that.

[@GrippiAlex]

@@larissakoroleva Yep, the Kremlin pays so I don’t think money would be an issue,unless an artist had an issue with it being used. Like most of the skating shows such as Ice Age,it’s 90% Kremlin funded. So are Eteri’s students and many others.😀⛸🇦🇺

[@flywings111]

@@larissakoroleva lol how would it be free to use a music? There are many laws about using music at public events including sport competitions. Nothing comes free...

[@lunalisveth3471]

Trusova's success this week is, to me (personal opinion, duh), in its majority Plushenko's team work. His team worked on her interpretation and teaching her to feel the music, and they worked on correcting her jumping technique a lot (which impacted her consistency, obviously). On top of that, what looked like (hilarious as some exercises may have been) well-thought, healthy physical training. Eteri's team took all of that and added consistency to the mix. I don't see Trusova doing as good as she did if she had stayed with Eteri last season.

[@zmao001]

so so happy to see Sasha finally clean!!! she totally deserved this 😍😍 hopefully she can sustain this all year 🙏🙏 if Anna doesn’t restore quads, then my guess is sasha, kamila, aliona… if anna restores quads then it will be hard… i wish there were 4 spots!!! it would be so sad to see any of them miss the olympics

[@zmao001]

@EE DR agree if they stay healthy 🤞🤞 other 2 is hard to say now

[@dianasong4594]

@EE DR So Do I. To be fair, KV shouldn't go.

[@PeiwenTanbassoon821]

Trusova’s programs definitely stand out the most so far. So fiery! And Kostornaia just looks like she hates her free… Also can China invite Tuktamysheva to perform her free at the Olympic gala if she doesn’t make the Olympic team?

[@GrippiAlex]

I don’t know if they can but I would love her to be there. There’s so much politics involved and I would like to see her perform ,she’ll be 25 by then. Liza’s Galas are the best⛸🇦🇺

[@yolandaguo7153]

Don’t you think it cruel to invite Liza to perform at Olympics Gala when she misses another Olympics that she’s been fighting for for so many years? It’s gonna be heartbroken. I don’t think China will do that cuz among all non-Chinese skaters, only Hanyu is popular in China and has a big fanbase. If Hanyu doesn’t want to participate in 2022 Olympics, China will most likely invite him to perform.

[@PeiwenTanbassoon821]

@@yolandaguo7153 lol ok

[@katerinabrave2980]

Kostornaya said that she is in love with her free, she just forgot how to fo step sequence during her performance 😅

[@PeiwenTanbassoon821]

@@katerinabrave2980 it's not just the step sequence that looked off tho, she was out of it the entire program, but who knows, maybe the program wasn't completed yet to begin with

[@biggestgymfan7230]

Honestly none of the Eteri programs screamed Olympics to me except maybe trusova

[@yeetfailure1017]

I’m heavily disappointed. None of them are Olympic worthy except Sasha and Kseniia’s shorts. What a downgrade from all the previous Olympics sadly. Still wish the girls the best it’s not their fault

[@Jeremy-wp4yh]

@@yeetfailure1017 they have too many girls so naturally everyone won't be a home run. Some music and choreo seemed like "filler content".

[@72586jejones]

Cruella was the least Oly season to me. The lyrics make it so cheesy, like an exhibition.

[@ileana823100]

It is a far cry from zhenyas and alinas programms 4years ago in my opinion

[@fazdoll]

@@Jeremy-wp4yh Agree. Team Tube desperately needs an additional choreographer, and it seems Daniil is too proud to hire one. Kamila, especially, needs someone who has time to find music and moves that suit her.

[@sarahvic5550]

Wow, Trusova totally deserves a spot. I imagine her to be like Sandrine(?) in Moulin Rouge; she is a fighter and would perform even if dying! I’d love to see Liza have a spot and I guess Kamila will go, but Maiia is chasing it! I hope Alena gets her mojo back- she was my fave a year or so back. And thanks again for the video, guys!

[@emmarcus]

Really upset about Kamilla’s long program choice! She is a beautiful skater and the music and choreography did not do her justice, go back to Picasso dance is right! Really surprised by Trusova, she’s so inconsistent, I hope she makes the olympics, don’t like her lack of artistry but the jumps! I’m thinking Trusova, Kosternya, Valieva for olympics

[@aizhanyeshova2191]

Aliona said in the interview that it was her music choice for both SP and FS. Tuber team told her they don't involve in her music choice anymore. I think its because she criticized Danny g music and programs when she was with plushenko

[@nenavujicin7882]

Yes, music choice of her programs was Alona's wish, ( she wanted to perform the blues), but i don't like her programs.

[@aizhanyeshova2191]

@@nenavujicin7882 neither do I. I wish she had worthy programs

[@L.Spencer]

@@nenavujicin7882 She doesn't look like she likes them, either. Maybe it was just nerves.

[@nenavujicin7882]

@@L.Spencer , but she said that she wanted that program ( there is an interview; she stated that her wish was to dance to the blues, even she chose a song '' Am i the one''). Hope that her interpretation will grow, over time, or that her coaching team will choose something else.

[@Passion4Fashion2023]

All programs are new, accept Kamila's, so this is still raw and will get better with the season started. I still love Anna, her passion is visible in every move of her performance, sad for the injury that she is still recovering from. But the clear winner for me was Sasha. I loved both of her programs and she gets more expressive in her moves, the girl is pushing the skating to the new level and I love this about her.

[@Bnizzofashizzo]

One word: Trusova! That is all

[@grisgris6908]

Tarasova/Morozov are looking so strong. Yes a flub here on their lift but they look much more polished than the Moskvina pairs. The specialness of Mishina/Galliamov still shone through their lackluster free program

[@annwhite1]

So sad about that FP of my favourites M/G. Definitely Tarasova/Morozov at this moment have everything needed to succeed this season (I will be happy for them if they do ).

[@TheReneex]

I was so happy to see Trusova on top. She really knocked that program with 5 quads off the chain. Sherbakova is lovely skater but I wasn’t impressed with her new program. Glad to see Kostornaya back in her element. Valieva needs to dump bolero. Her performance was truly disappointing. For me, I’d like to see Three A head out to the Olympics. But Vallieva will no doubt be on the top tier.

[@evanperilstein5308]

I don’t think Kostornaia’s music is as much the problem as the fact that it looks like she hates her life right now. I keep seeing people, like Fran, say that she’s actually not as musical as everyone made her out to be, but if you go back and watch her junior performances from the 17/18 and 18/19 seasons, she WAS musical, probably the most musical of the bunch. Now she just looks vacant and glassy-eyed when she skates, like she doesn’t love skating anymore. Her musical interpretation and expression have deteriorated with each season. And when she goes into the jumps now, she looks scared/apprehensive rather than confident and sure-footed.

[@almourie]

Maybe its because of the pressure? Especially after coming back to eteri and having a deadline to regain 3A. I think she was just soley focused on the jumps today to prove last season was just a fluke. I love aliona so I really hope she sticks those axels!

[@SeabassFishbrains]

I agree 100%, it was hard to watch. I know it'll never happen, but can you imagine Kostornaia with Lambiel instead of Eteri or Plushenko?

[@QQ-wl6yt]

I think the problem with the musicality of the 3 contemporary girls of this team is that they are quite try-hard with forcing a specific style to each of them: - Kostornaia: making her “sexy”, which is kinda gross since they were going for this since she was 15... and I’m not being prudish... it just comes off tacky and lame. Her new SP and her free program from 2019/2020 her worst offender cases; her 2019/2020 SP a more successful version of her potential style. - Trusova: try-hard girl boss kick ass style; especially when she’s very limited in her body expressiveness (powerful jumping technique obviously aside). I’ve always been surprised by how Valieva looks so much more powerful and mature in how she moves compared to everybody actually but especially Sasha and Anna. Her new Frida program a welcome turning point in a potentially more successful musical fit. Anna: 😒 well, aside from her firebird free program, I’ve always been annoyed to various degrees with her “agony” look on her somber musics, which aren’t necessarily that bad. But her previous 2020/2021 free program was the nadir with the music being more romantic at the end but with her expression i just found it a corny mess. Between that and the fact that they seem to force her to the top spot regardless of her questionable technique, I don’t even remember her new music choices but I did think that they were better than the previous ones.

[@embeth446]

Yeah I was surprised they had Kosto so high on the pyramid. It was great to see the axel back but the lackluster programs and overall bad energy really cast a shadow for me. She doesn’t have the magic. Ted kept saying she was having a mental block with the axel so maybe when she regains her jump confidence she’ll try and sell the programs more. I do think the short music was offensive to the ears but even worse was the lack of choreography and zero attempt to sell it. They’re saying she forgot her choreography in the free so I’ll try to reserve judgement on that one, but I’m concerned.

[@yohanes2034]

I surely hope that is not the case. The girl with the most talent as figure skater who actually not loving the sport. I hope that she was focusing on landing all her jumps so she didn't try to even inject personality into yesterday performances.

[@liceous]

I love your poster but I think Eteri should be above Sasha on the pyramid

[@TheSkatingLesson]

🤣

[@chelsh8316]

Please Queen Eteri is like the pharaoh.. she commissions the pyramids and makes them into the great wonders that they are 😎😎

[@liceous]

@@chelsh8316 😍🔥💪

[@tomkroh2712]

Lowkey disappointed that Liza was not able to pull off a quad toe. I'm such a fan of hers but...she can't compete with a clean 5 quad-ing Sasha. Mishin is doing her a disservice by not pushing her to do a quad.🤷‍♂️😭 Great video, fellas! You're the skating friends in my head I need.

[@LiliyaUgay]

She still can make it without quad if she does her current content clean at every competition. IMO, her programs are much better than Kostornaia’s. She has a bonus of being a vice-WC, and just because of that her PCS, if clean, will be higher than Maia’s or even Daria’s at the international competition. So yeah, clean Liza can be 4th - after Trusova, Valieva, and Shcherbakova - and then, as Dave said, things can happen and she still might get this spot. Too early to write her off!

[@kamyashrivastava7341]

@@LiliyaUgay I do hope what you're saying turns out to be right for Liza at comps. Love all the women, but Liza definitely needs that oly spot now imho.

[@rop888]

Kamila needs to go back to the Muse program and dump the 4S attempts and she's good. Second time she's failed at doing this layout, they need to stop and just add in two 3A's since that's more consistent than her 4S. And I'll get excited about Sasha when she repeats what she did today. She did the same amazing program before at Japan Open and then was never really clean again for two seasons. I've heard this song and dance about her being unbeatable too many times.

[@BmcC102]

Yes!!!

[@mooony94]

@@BmcC102 my guess she just peaked here

[@iamsoverybored878]

Enough with Muse and Coldplay these skaters do realize that there's better British rock to skate too right. How about the band those two copied Radiohead.

[@hannibaljustincase9985]

@@iamsoverybored878 those skaters may realize that, of course. but it's Eteri and Daniil who choose music, skaters opinion doesn't matter

[@rop888]

@@iamsoverybored878 There's no time for her to learn a whole new program and add in all the quads, so just go with Muse which was a well received program.

[@Rachel-rs7jn]

Clearly I'm in the minority here, but I like Kamila's Bolero. I wouldn't call it a masterpiece or anything, but I think it's exciting. I also really like Anna's free - the floppy leg bothered me less than before because the musicality was so strong. If Aliona could find her spark, I think her free could be very exciting. And well, Sasha was obviously exciting and I think the Cruella music is a great choice for her. I like the hair too.

[@dr.physiker9930]

Camilla is the best gifted on the planet scater!

[@letstalkaboutit3195]

I like it too. I really appreciate the strength she brings in.

[@starfish37]

Why did Kostornaia look so sad? :/ I love her, but I wish she had her confidence back

[@Meds6035]

she forgot some steps. she said it after fp

[@anuniemoose2209]

@@Meds6035 Such a lame excuse. How would you forget some steps if you skate it hundreds of times a week??

[@Chastaken]

@@anuniemoose2209 it happens, zhenya also forgot the steps in test skates. It's very early in the season. Probably she was more focus in having all the jumps done considering that her last competition wasn't very good and she finished crying. The confidence will return, probably she will do some challenger before the GP, we'll see.

[@helenluo5112]

I'm losing my mind with Aliona's shit programs - its not that I hate the music, I think she has enough charisma to pull off the rock/blues short but god that choreography is a pile of nothing and the step sequence is not even close to a level 4. And who looked at Aliona and thought "wow, really feeling iconic *baroque* here" like Jesus the Vivaldi didn't hit it the first time and it's not gonna do it if we make it longer. Can you imagine Aliona doing a classy, jazzy French Edith Piaf in the short and an exquisite balletic Tchaikovsky long? AND CAN WE GET HER SOME COSTUMES THAT DONT ACTIVELY HURT TO LOOK AT AHHHH

[@minzvora9227]

Aliona said that she actually forgot her FS step sequence, so that explains quite a bit.

[@helenluo5112]

@@minzvora9227 same, I'd forget Dani choreography too, that's a good call ffs

[@jekicolin8036]

Kosto deserves so much more I hate her SP and don’t like her FS that much either. I hope the Fed gave honest feedback about her programs and team tut ends up changing at least the SP

[@SeabassFishbrains]

@@helenluo5112 omg 💯🤣

[@olgaavdeeva6686]

Alyona admitted to forgetting to do the step sequence after the run through, at least these were the glimpses audible in her conversation with Eteri

[@josephboulous2477]

I nearly spat my drink out when Dave’s pyramid came out 😂😂😂 it was so accurate and made my day. But I still want to know when can my Kendall have her solo? Regarding Alysa, I think she is continuously improving because as you correctly said before Jonathan, she has the Michelle Kwan Jedi mind - she won’t stop until she lands that Olympic spot - and I think it’s pencilled (not penned) in at this stage. Thanks for the great analysis each week.

[@TheSkatingLesson]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ Kendall can be Rosa Parks.

[@mai3334]

It’s so appropriate that Daria is skating to “never enough.” Its so sad because she’s the only Eteri girl that makes me feel anything.

[@evanperilstein5308]

Aliona used to be capable of making people feel something when she was a junior, but with each season her musical interpretation and expression has become more lackluster. I think she hates her life right now and I get the sense that she no longer enjoys skating, that it has become just a job for her.

[@QQ-wl6yt]

I find Daria distracting with her matronly hair look. I guess she has some potential if I squint beyond that superficiality but I can’t help to skip ahead of her... they make her seem corny and tacky and somehow old and immature at the same time. Same deal with Maia K - short program with some Long sleeve gloves and sensuous music? She’s effing 15 years old(!) don’t know which styling is more nonsensical.

[@Bnizzofashizzo]

Eteri must have sat Tarasova and Morozov down and threatened to behead them!!! She is like , “ we land jumps around here “!! Every element has been focused on. Honestly , T&M are relevant again

[@almourie]

Lol I just laughed thinking about eteri threatening T/M with making them skate w the children skaters like she did with kosto if they dont land their side by sides 😂

[@S80-r1o]

@@almourie now i’m imagining vladimir scowling at the novice skaters and making them cry out of fear from his depressing aura

[@denalihedgehog]

Speaking of Maiia and Aliona both having Beth Hart programs: last year, according to Kostornaya, the last straw that made her quit Eteri was that she had shown Daniil a song she really wanted to skate to. Gleikhengauz said no, you won't be skating to this, and later Aliona sees another girl from the group (she didn't specify who) skating to that very song. If you rewind to this year pre-test skates interview of Dani G, talking about Aliona's new SP, he said "well, Aliona is finally getting the blues that she wanted ~so very much~ ". My theory is that it was Beth Hart's song that went to Maiia instead of Aliona

[@АндрейСидоров-о9ы]

Gleikhengauz said no? You are funny.

[@denalihedgehog]

@@АндрейСидоров-о9ы that's what Aliona said

[@АндрейСидоров-о9ы]

@@denalihedgehog aliona said she was answered no. She didn't say it was Gleikhengauz who said that.

[@denalihedgehog]

@@АндрейСидоров-о9ы is it really relevant, though?

[@АндрейСидоров-о9ы]

@@denalihedgehog it's not up to Gleikhengauz to make such a decision. I just wonder why people are making stuff up and trying to shit at DG all the time.

[@nell5821]

I am surprised that you didn't like Zagitova's Olympics programs. I thought they had a lot more story to it than the current programs.

[@NormaLilia24]

Yup, she was well packaged for Olympics whether they knew it or not

[@eileendover3938]

I don’t understand skating at all, but I absolutely love the humour, snark and delivery of your show.

[@TheSkatingLesson]

❤️❤️❤️

[@helenamargot0403]

have you noticed the many SportsRu articles about Maya during this week? They’re aware she might be a threat with a possible 3 axel on the way, and maybe 2 quads consistent

[@TheSkatingLesson]

💯

[@S80-r1o]

Weirdly enough I enjoyed her programs the most out of all the Eteri girls. If you told me that a few years ago I would have laughed at you

[@mooony94]

@@S80-r1o not only there is a new confidence in her, the programs they gave her are also absolute bangers and actually olympic programs! Her fp didn't even suffer much despite the errors, it was good and you can till when peaked will create a moment for sure !

[@shelleyc853]

Like Johnathan, Maia landing quads truly makes me believe anything is possible! Low key rooting for her

[@mooony94]

It's unbelievable that kind of slim lanky tall body can land quads ! It's truly remarkable! And when she lands the good ones they look sooooooo good in the air

[@troyroepke6071]

I really hope that Trusova wins the Olympic gold medal in the skate jumping competition.

[@fw7103]

My thoughts: I LOVE Anna’s free. I think it’s fantastic and it does feel Olympic to me, while also showing what makes her special. And I also think that the quads will be back in competition. She said that she’s jumping them already in training but she really wanted to skate clean here, which is a decision that I agree with. I’m not as big on the short. It’s ok but I’d prefer if she bought Perfume back. In general, I just think she had a sparkle and something special about her here. I see good things for her this season. Aliona I disagree. She seems finished. The spark seems gone, the 3A is back, but the sparkle is not. The programs are both eh. I just don’t think she’ll be at the Olympics and I think she’ll retire after this season. Sasha was in the best jumping shape. Like wow. The power of that rippon. The short I think is stronger, but the free currently has that strength of the 5 clean quads. But when she falls I think that program will also fall. She seems locked into the Olympics. Kamila I wish would just stop going for the 4 ultra-c layout. She has had complete meltdowns both times she has gone for it, and she doesn’t even need the 4 Sal. Just stick to the fantastic 3A and 4T. If she keeps going for it I think she could be vulnerable. Maiia was the real revelation here in my opinion. She has grown so much as a performer and a jumper. I’m excited to see how it goes. Daria was a bit of a painful watch. The short is painfully generic and the free the music doesn’t even matter because the choreography doesn’t match it. She has almost definitely been discarded by Eteri and her team for this season.

[@larissakoroleva]

Agree with you 100%. Not sure what was wrong with Dasha; just maybe not her day for some reason because we has been always consistent.

[@SummerYu0625]

I really want Anya to bring back perfume. That’s one of my favorite SPs from her. The other is dreamcatcher, which is now too junior. But Anya is very musical and can always portrays the character quite well. So I’d probably wait and see how it looks with final costume and choreo. My opinion of Kamila is along the lines of yours. If she fell on opening 4S, down and rise takes too much stamina and interrupts her rhythm of the following elements. And she does not have stamina level like Trusova, who can pull 5 quads without breathing hard. And if she keeps falling, that would hurt her confidence, which she is already lacking. The only thing I’m uncertain is Alena. Her SP music is too overwhelming for me. But clearly she enjoys the music more than her FS. She is very disconnected with the FS. But she still has the talent to go for a landed 3A even without an attempt in warm-up. It’s really hard for me to tell who would be the final 3. Trusova is a lock for her FS performance at the moment.

[@lc4822]

I agree with most of this. Except I really like BOTH Anna's programs, theyre different than what she normally does and way more interesting imo. I sincerely hope that her FS here helps Aliona get her confidence back, her spark as you say was absent at this event. Sasha's free is such a let down, I think the short proved that shes capable of way more choreo than they gave her. I'm thrilled she landed all her jumps here, but every event will still be a coin toss. Both Kamila's programs are disappointing. Daria's SP is nice enough, the free is a let down. Maiia's programs suit her but shes the worst jumper in the group and I'd hate for her to take an olympic spot from one of the others on the merit of some ugly quads.

[@fw7103]

@@lc4822 I need more time for Anna’s short. If she gets a great costume it’ll probably change my opinion on it. Also, I know people go on about prerotation all the time and it’s very annoying, but I think Maiia’s quads are wayyyyy too prerotated.

[@mooony94]

@@fw7103 her 4s is banger tho, and you can't prerotate a sal so

[@dkeinow]

been waiting for this since the Russian TS wrapped up, but then I realized that Lombardia was still happening. Lombardia was not at all exciting after watching the Russians. Excited to hear your ideas!

[@TheSkatingLesson]

❤️❤️

[@grisgris6908]

All about the Empress! Loved both programs, they really showcase her personality and her expression as a woman. Adored!!!

[@GrippiAlex]

I want her to go to the Olympics but I know chances are slim. She’s nearly 25 but I can’t help think where will all the younger Eterri girls be at that age. Anyway fingers crossed. Go Liza👏🏼👏🏼🇦🇺

[@Jeremy-wp4yh]

@@GrippiAlex eventually it will only be Russian teenagers which will hurt the sport. Liz doesn't even get the GOE for her lutz.

[@kamyashrivastava7341]

Ah she's amazing. Both programs suit her sassy nature. She said in the interview after the short that this outing is mainly to get an idea of how the programs will appear, and to stabilize the triples. I'm sure she's practising the 4T very hard. She knows it's impossible to get to the Olys. Loved the other women too.

[@GrippiAlex]

@@kamyashrivastava7341 yes,no one would be practicing the 4t more than The Empress. And we know how determined and strong she is🇦🇺

[@kamyashrivastava7341]

@@GrippiAlex That's right!

[@alexac3098]

I'm stopping 22 minutes in to tell you guys that I LOVE how animated you are this episode. Kudos, guys. And allllllllllllll the props to Dave's comment about "Am I going to go back and watch these programs later after I've taken my melatonin and getting ready for bed? No, I'm going to watch the 80s, I'm going to watch Usova and Zhulin. I'm going to watch beautiful skating. I'm not going to watch Kamila Valieva do Bolero with this weird bendy position." That Bolero is truly a horrible program, and I thought so last year when it debuted. Can we get up a petition for them to give her something else? I just am appalled that, with all the assumption that Valieva is the most likely 'lock' for a spot on the Olympic team, that they are going to send THAT to the Olympics.

[@TheSkatingLesson]

💯

[@embeth446]

Danny G said they created that Bolero for the Olympics, knowing she wouldn’t get to compete it internationally last year. It was always the plan to keep it. I agree, I don’t like it, and the costume is hideous.

[@НатальяКрасавица-м5й]

@@embeth446 well test skating is for exchanging opinions. I hope someone will tell them the truth

[@lc4822]

Kamila Will get straight 9s if she goes to the Olympics, regardless of what music she uses. The fed knows this and will send her. PCS is about reputation, not programs, and Kamila's reputation is one of a beautiful skater (based almost entirely on her flexibility imo).

[@shantarakelian1998]

I just finished all of the time stamps for everyone who needs it! Great episode!!

[@angieortizurena3327]

Thank you!

[@KumaKumaKyun]

thank you!!

[@alyssabullen5472]

I mean Sasha looks closer to the 4A than Yuzu. Mind blown

[@TheSkatingLesson]

It is impressive!

[@user-jy8zb2wc8l]

Turns out the real competition was never Yuzuru vs Nathan for everything but Sasha vs Yuzu for quad axel; Sasha vs Nathan for overall TES. Love it.

[@flywings111]

@@user-jy8zb2wc8l Her TES should be much lower because her prerotation issues, edge issues and occassional UR issues. Her only legit quad is the Toe-loop.

[@flywings111]

No, she isn't close to a 4A at all. She overrotates the 3A just because she doesn't have good control on the jump, which is the reason she doesn't even have a stable Axel. Yuzu has the best Axel in the whole business and he's been working on the quad. The two of them aren't even comparable in any way when it comes to their Axel or in general, the quality of their jumping technique on any of their quads.

[@alyssabullen5472]

@@flywings111 Alright alright I'm a Yuzu fan as well! I don't think we can expect Sasha as a seventeen year old to have perfect control over the strength she has - if we remember Yuzu at the same age his issue was a lack of strength in contrast with the quality of his technique, and I think Sasha has the opposite problem. But to me it looks like she could stick a landing (albeit at a massive q) more likely than Yuzu at the moment who does seem to be launching himself into the air and getting more rotation, but seeming nowhere near a successful landing (and trust me I hope he manages it more than the next person)

[@Essylte]

The last 6 Russian women were great to watch! Trusova without the 3A in the Free did wonderfully. I think she needs to concentrate on just the quads so she can be consistent. The 4S was the only element that looked iffy. If only she dyed her hair part white and black like in her Sia EX rather than making it red...I don't think she does a good Frida, but Cruella is fine. Valieva's Bolero is not my cup of tea, and I still think she's going to be the pic of the Olympic team, as well as Russia's next Olympic champion. Kostornaia's SP doesn't bother me, but I do like her Billie Eilish SP more. I can understand the Vivaldi Free, but it feels generic as an Olympic program. Maiia did well, but I doubt she'll make the Olympic team, like Tuktik. If I could pick the team, it'd be Trusova/Valieva/Kostornaia, by this test skate. Watching the test skates, I found some of the music choices questionable. Why Nugumanova had all those weird edits to the Little Mermaid, and that ice-dance team that spliced the Aladdin 2019 OST...it was unacceptable. The Harvest Moon dance would make a nice enough SP, but instead, they went for a horrendous, musical mix that is out of rhythm and place. Then Samodurova doing Mulan...nice costume, but her hand movements in the beginning and throughout the program seemed confusing to me. I figured Alysa Liu would win Lombardia, so I didn't bother watching much of it. Tarasova/Morozov looked better; hopefully, they can make the Olympic team. I don't mind the programs of Boikova/Kozlovskii and Mishina/Galliamov. It's obvious they're making the team for next year. Kolyada's Schindler's List is not as impactful as Lipnitskaia's or even Jason Brown's. I feel bad for the Russian men who fell here. At least these are only test skates, otherwise, they'd be in serious trouble.

[@GrippiAlex]

I want to see Liza get to the Olympics. I know it’s unlikely but she’s missed out on two and The Empress seems like a really nice girl.⛸🇦🇺

[@Essylte]

@@GrippiAlex Tuktyamysheva making the team would be nice. But the thing is, the 3A would need to bomb at Russian Nationals in order for her to actually have a chance. Then there's the fact that Valieva is being prepped to be the next OGM winner, and Maiia looks to be improving, so...it would take a miracle for Liza to be chosen. If she does, then it means that there is a God.

[@sfs6501]

My conclusion: Sasha Anna and Aliona have huge chances going to the Olympics. Not only because Kamila messed up, but in terms of programs, presentation, and CONFIDENCE, I think the three of them showed that they're the seniors that the trio kamila dasha maiia still cannot surpass by. Kami Dasha Maiia could be serious threats technically ofcourse (if Dasha has 3A). but the 3As have the maturity and "superstar skill" that will carry the audience to a high level of engagement and excitement while watching them. And they have the best program sets both SP FS for me!! 😁

[@ingetamm7951]

There's no way that Kamila isn't going. She has the quads, the 3A for the short and the "unbelievable artistry" she is called a phenomenon by everyone in Russia and they have already given her the Olympic gold in their minds. Even if she messes up at Nationals, I'm pretty sure that the Fed will send her, they have strong reasons to believe that 15-year olds are the best bet. Like, Medvedeva also didn't qualify for the Olympics through Nationals and they STILL sent her just because they wanted to. They want Kamila at the Olympics and nobody will be able to move her from her spot

[@maria375s]

I have been looking forward to this so much!! I love watching you discuss all things figure skating, the two of you have the best rapport!

[@TheSkatingLesson]

Enjoy!

[@jtangel98]

I will never count the Empress Liza Tuk out she is always a fierce contender

[@jia7532]

Kamila is a talented and beautiful skater and Bolero is just meh, she can do and show much better than that. Plus she doesn't need this 4S, she can do triple axels and 4T, and she will get her medals.

[@akyadott]

Im not Zagitova fan at all, but those programs were definitely not a crap, especially Don Quixote.

[@jennifer5512]

They were crap. Completely backloaded and a bunch of disjointed moves.

[@akyadott]

@@jennifer5512 have you watched Don Quixote ballet? Alina’s every move matched the music, especially the jumps which were put in the second half not only to Collect points but Because it matches the music accents just Like in the original ballet where all the major jumps happen towards the end when culmination of the scene happens.

[@lc4822]

I was no fan of Zagitova but I still think her DQ is one of the best programs to come out of that camp. Every single move matched the music, what more can you ask for? Especially compared to some of the glaringly unmusical programs we've seen from TT since.

[@liceous]

“Am i going to go rewatch them after I take my melatonin? No” 😅😅😅💀

[@TheSkatingLesson]

💯

[@jenniferjackson6334]

Korstonaia skated so well in the short to The Leftovers. She broke the world record and it showed off her body lines and she was beautiful from beginning to the end . If Valieva should bring back Picasso then Korstonaia needs to bring back The Leftovers .

[@Nice-sz4ee]

or adios nonino that was truly her prime program

[@almourie]

@@Nice-sz4ee yes!!!! adios nonino and stellas theme by far are my favorite Aliona programs! And they were her debut programs as an eteri girl as well. They could just claim its an act for remembrance and symbolism.

[@victorianka_artist]

I enjoyed Frida, Cruella by Trusova and Maya's programms, others were quite boring. I wish Kostornaya could change music.

[@mocneeuq]

I always find it funny that Trusova always gets high praises during test skates and fans already declares her as the winner for the season but always fumbles at the end. Last season test skates, fans were praising her and Plushenko then in important competition, she regresses. Anna is always underestimated and even Aliona during their senior debut, but they always manage to win against her. I would not be surprise if this happens again. Without the 5 quads, Sasha's FP is empty. Basically just a jumping drill again.

[@matthiasmueller346]

The most Programms are still a bit empty. Still time to develop for all of them. Also for Sasha. With an clean SP and an FS with a some more content and this will come currently there are just 2-3 men in the world who can beat her FS. On a good Day!!!

[@hannibaljustincase9985]

don't forget her great Japan Open in 2019 with Zagitova, everyone claiming quad queen is going to win everything, and she lost Nationals, Euros and GPF to skaters with lower difficulty

[@vicserra2485]

I think the pyramid (i love it) is wrong, i have 2 locks at the team, 4 months ago and i confirm they weekend, Sasha and Kamila, they are going for sure, the 3rd is very open. Short thoughts: Sasha amazing, noone can beat her IF she lands the 5 quads, that will happen at the olympics? will see Kamila i still pretty confident she will win the olympics, doesnt need that 4S, two 4T and two 3A and gets the old Alena in 2 months she will have all the jumps, including 3A, she is my 3rd for the Oteam Anna, Daria, not worry about what we see, i worry about what we didnt see, is looking bad

[@jekicolin8036]

the dance moms pyramid 💀

[@TheSkatingLesson]

❤️❤️❤️

[@riveroak-dp8gt]

I really like Sasha and I’m so glad she seems to have found her happy place with these two well fitted programs. I hope especially the free skate will mature and develop with the season. It’s cool but there’s not that much going on in-between jumps. When seeing a program from Satoko, Marin or even Rika immediately after the lack grows even more apparent. Of course those three don’t have Sasha jumping technique! It would just be wonderful to see a tiny bit more artistry in mere skating.. and she would truly be unbeatable! 💪🏼

[@ekaterinagalkina8547]

wow thanks for uploading so fast! accurate pyramid too, I would have maybe Kamila above Anna simply because of the quads but overall I thought they were about the same

[@SeabassFishbrains]

I agree 1000% with Johnathan on lady turnadot, those vocals were more than just wrong for that part, they were weak and weirdly breathy in all the wrong places.

[@selenity08]

You guys are on top of it, thank you for the quick upload

[@TheSkatingLesson]

❤️

[@Sarah-gp3hp]

Oh my god Dave can you stop interrupting Jonathan...it's like you just want him there as a side kick to agree with whatever you say instead of actually listening to any of his opinions. I wanna hear what Jonathan has to say!

[@mooony94]

Honestly

[@jessicamay952]

I agree about Maia! I finished the test skates thinking I maybe like Maia now.

[@TheSkatingLesson]

There is improvement!

[@sarahvic5550]

Oh, I forgot about lovely Anna- she’s a wonderful all round skater and very consistent. She must surely have a spot. It would be mad to leave her at home as she has nerves of steel.

[@olgaavdeeva6686]

My moment of test skates was Eteri looking at MG and smiling. She wants them.

[@skyeward8486]

O.

[@annwhite1]

@Olga Avdeeva I wish she could have them this season. I’m desperate about their programs, really sad.

[@gggqa]

MG - Mishina/ Galliamov?

[@annwhite1]

@@gggqa exactly ☺️.

[@fionan7311]

@@annwhite1 A lot of people (including their fans and Averbukh) have voiced their concerns about MGs free program. I hope that Moskvina will listen to them and change something!

[@almourie]

The real question is which boom boom pow did yall like better??? I just know that eteri wont let her daughter get outboomed and outpowed

[@yeetfailure1017]

OUTBOOMED AND OUTPOWED BSHDGHAJAK

[@pwetty4r4]

Maya pleasantly surprised me, Im rooting for her! She just has a little something special, I like it! and she is landing the jumps now too??

[@MorganleFayable]

Right? Her short was my favourite by far!

[@hannibaljustincase9985]

there was some Russian tarot reading lady on KZbin who saw in cards that Olympic team is Sasha, Kamila and Maya... watch out her being accurate 😂

[@pwetty4r4]

@@hannibaljustincase9985 haha wow!

[@mooony94]

@@hannibaljustincase9985 the way I'd scream if it turns out correct

[@adaline3467]

Yes 3A, 4T, 4S

[@VivyTheLife]

About Ice Dance, Carreira/Ponomarenko programs are a big NO for me, both programs look juniorish: they're currently #5 in US, with these programs I'm scared they could risk this position. I say: completely re-do the short and take out that outbeat section in the free... I do really like them, but they haven't find their style yet, and It shows. You can see especially in the short the Virtue/moir ispirations, but they're not tessa and Scott, they Need to find they're style and those two programs do nothing to make them Shine in a different way even thinking about the next season where they probably want to be One of the top 2 US team.

[@evanperilstein5308]

Dave, I didn’t think Kostornaia’s spins looked bad here. They looked much better than last season, especially her Biellmann and I-spin.

[@TheSkatingLesson]

Last season, they were atrocious.

[@Pokav1deo]

Just when I thought I was going to sleep an hour past my bedtime. That said, thank you!

[@almourie]

Yana needs to stop posting about her 10 Mercedes and rush plushy to train these russian men!!! God petyr, artur, aliev, (+ mark too) all have such nice qualities but the jumps, what is going on.

[@PJ-mk4kn]

Aliev and Danielian are recovering from injury. Aliev just had his cast removed, Danielian is having pain still on and off, so neither are 100%. Petr is tall, it's hard for him.

[@S80-r1o]

I was obsessed with the pair team that did the campy disco free program

[@mariamrusishvili1724]

I do not care if trusova has no skating skills I love her. She deserves all the gold. She is like if a man shows up and lands five quintuple jumps. Btw her spins look better and every aspect of her skating is better day by day. Go girl Hate both kostornaias programs. It’s very sad what happened to her. It seemed like she was chasing her music in the free all the program. Her spins are very bad I guess still back problems. Sherbakova I can’t imagine her landing quads again but she always proves me wrong so I will shut up about her. Kamila was not herself in the free but I think she will be fine. But she needs to go back to her old short program. Maia is trying so hard but not sure it will ever happen for her Daria unfortunately is going down and down in the pyramid

[@Victrola66]

Every time I see Trusova perform, I always think the same thing - how much better she would be if she applied her artistic skills to the amazing technical side. I hated how much I liked both programs because finally theme wise it is a 100% fit. Really seems like she is being prepared as number 1 for the OG. Really wish Anna would do something with her hair, at least for the short. The long is ehhhhh. By the way question - how does the non-Russian audience feel about the Master and Margarita music? Does anyone know the series? I get the appeal for the Russian audience, but worldwide? I was surprised how much I liked Maia, although I hate her short because Beth Hart does not suit her in my opinion. But surprisingly Moulin Rouge I liked for her. Usacheva ....I am so with you about her....seems like she is not really in the mix. Kamila too - both programs very bad. Out of the men I enjoyed Samarin and Kondratuk - Just a pleasure to watch)). Kolyada’s both programs are awful. Bring back Nureyev!!!! The pairs are such a tragedy this season. Don’t know what happened to Moskvina and her team, but both programs are a miss, huge miss. I really do not see either team at the podium with this shit content and music. Makes me want to actually root again for Tarasova and Morozov. Now the dance, OMG... these are the times when you realize how out of date and touch with reality are the coaches.... especially in terms of music for the street dance. The best music choice for me personally are Panjabi MC for Tiffany and Jonathan because well... it will always be cool and somehow seems so fresh are now. Nikita and Vika - maybe Zhulin thinks that stripper music will get him the gold (side note, no disrespect to strippers, it is just the first association I have because it was used so often in scenes with strippers), but makes me cringe.... the long program is not good either. No, just no!! Anyway, the only really good impression I got from the event - Annabel and Andrey’s Sheherazade... so beautiful, music cut well, have great lifts and especially there is a really beautiful move into a turn right at the beginning. Really, makes me root for them))

[@BillyWhaler]

Like Van Gogh, Zagitova was high risk high reward and ahead of her time. But unlike Van Gogh, girl is making bank before she hits 20.

[@wileecoyote671]

Thank you for commenting on how completely "un rewatchable' skates like valieva are (I too would rather youtube an interpretative skate from yesteryear.) She has amazing jumps and spins, but moves are just athletic maneuvers with no bigger purpose when performed as she does. I feel like most the Russian skaters aren't performing to the music much. It is like watching gymnastics balance beam when soft background songs play. I could put any piece of 4 minute music on and the choreography and jump layout would be the same. I need more light and shade, more interpretation. I miss programs with the fast music opening, slow section middle, and fast ending. These programs are so one note even tempo 4 minute zzzz fest other than the jumps. Judges dont differentiate much with the pcs so we dont see the motivation to work on posture and mature choreography, just immature meaningless arm flailing. To this end, I think scherbakova is the strongest and has best posture and nuances to her skating of the bunch. I will also say it isn't just the russians, most the ladies are formulaic these days. Quads should match the highs of the music - think Ito's big soaring 3axel in 1990 to match the music in scheherazade. We still see "highlights" in ice dancing that match the music but less and less in singles. Sorry for the rant.

[@o_valencia3038]

I’ve been waiting for this the whole day!!!!! Excuse my language, but BITCH I’M LIVING!!! Lol

[@TheSkatingLesson]

❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@iosebdzamukashvili5360]

Even Russians started to talk a lot how bad Valyeva's Bolero is.

[@TheSkatingLesson]

About time.

[@jekicolin8036]

Good 💀

[@rop888]

Good. Go back to Muse! That skate has Olympic moments all over it.

[@alexac3098]

I sure hope so.

[@Essylte]

For me, Bolero was performed best by Torvill & Dean for ice dance, and will forever be known for it. Carolina Kostner's Bolero is iconic for all women, and the buck should stop there. Dave and Jonathan's observations are on point; Valieva's strange, frenetic and spastic movements are just no good. As future Olympic champion, she deserves better.

[@misa7401]

OMG! I needed this. I have a lot of feelings for these two passed events. And I am waiting for this. LOL

[@TheSkatingLesson]

❤️

[@reneecarlson1784]

Beth & Joe Baddest Blues Live in Amsterdam and Am I the one - rock it!

[@Jeremy-wp4yh]

Daniil gleikhengauz programmes were a hit and miss. Some of the new choreography didn't match the music or the skaters interpretation thereof. In some cases its the SAME programme that was simply repackaged. I enjoyed the more mature waltz and tango programmes (mostly the free skate). Regarding the technical aspects, I'm not sure if it's related to the eteri expiration date. But most of the girls were struggling to achieve full rotation on triples. For my own sanity I've ignored the flutz, blade drop and pre-rotations. 🙌🏼TRUSOVA SKATE ENDED THE NIGHT 🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@ColonelGreen]

Moskvina is normally a genius with packaging, but I don't think either of her teams got particularly good new material this year. M/G are recycling their brilliant short program from last season, so that's all well and good, but the new free doesn't play to Mishina's best qualities at all; but the tech looks solid, so that'll probably be enough. With B/K, _Swan Lake_ on paper is a perfect fit, but the actual choreography of the program lets them down. "Malaguena", on the other hand, isn't a good fit at all. And Boikova jump and throw problems have now been going on for a full calendar year, so I think it's time to accept that Moskvina has no fix for whatever the problem is, otherwise it would have been fixed by now. Tarasova/Morozov...yeesh, how many coaches have tried to help them realize their potential, and yet still the same old, same old.

[@grisgris6908]

I don’t know what Moskvina was thinking with these programs this year

[@annwhite1]

@Марина Россия3 If there is something that upsets me most is M/G free music choice (at least they had for the first time beautiful outfits). They are my favourites and reigning World Champions so I was hoping for some “to remember” music choice. T/M are in good hands finally. Beautiful programs (they already had all that is needed technically). Wishing all the best to both my favourites teams.

[@annastepanenko2774]

Their choreographer died last year because of Covid. Maybe they couldn't find a new one I don't know. Their programs aren't the best this year 😔

[@annwhite1]

@@annastepanenko2774 The music choice is even worse than the choreo (always speaking for Mishina/Galliamov). So so unfair to the most brilliant Russian pair of the moment.

[@annastepanenko2774]

@@annwhite1 I do agree with you. I think both BK and MG are definitely deserve better programs and music for Olympic season.

[@АльбинаБаликоева]

I live how honest Dave is

[@TheSkatingLesson]

[@kdcm6690]

Alena and Kamila's free skate programmes are terrible.

[@jenliz6410]

i was waiting for this all day. thanks

[@TheSkatingLesson]

Enjoy!

[@Dani-pq6nr]

I'm desperate for your opinions on ICE DANCE. Don't forget about us "Dance" Fans. All the US teams have debut their programs at Chesapeake and Lake Placid except our top 3 and SINITSINA / KATSALAPOV have debut their freedance--same old same old.... just different costume. Dive in!!! Love you guys.

[@Dani-pq6nr]

I'm sorry-I see you spoke about them for a bit.

[@jennifer5512]

I love the pyramid! Great shows as always you two beauties 😍😍😍 I’m not a huge fan of any of the ladies programs so far this season tbh but the Russian ladies were fun to watch if just for the competitiveness. I may not be a Trusova fan but man that was quite the display.

[@TheSkatingLesson]

[@drea09a]

Marie France is going to be sh***** bricks this season. A candle for the IAM team needs to be lit 🕯

[@tonyatown]

Seeing Nikita fall out of twizzles made me think the candle's already working.

[@anneramones2923]

I think it’s worth mentioning that in her interview Zhenya said that she asked Eteri to keep her program January Stars because she was aware that she needed that level of difficulty to compete with Zagitova’s short and Eteri said no. I think( it’s a personal opinion so take it with a grain of salt) that she was not allowed on purpose, because it was much more advantageous for her team to let one do the risky programs and use the other as a security net in case something did not work out. In this way two medals would’ve been guaranteed.

[@KateKabrinsky]

I agree, when you represent a country at the Onlympics, two risky programs can make a dangerous situation. They could sacrifice ambitions of one person for the stable result

[@ingetamm7951]

But I take this whole thing with a grain of salt because before that Zhenya used to say that the only thing that she liked about January Stars was the costume, while for Anna Karenina she put her heart out and she was satisfied with the change... this was said in 2018. I don't know what to believe anymore. Maybe she said it not to cast a shadow on her coaches, I dunno

[@KateKabrinsky]

@@ingetamm7951 belive in a 5 quads

[@anneramones2923]

@@ingetamm7951 yea I think she said it because she couldn’t speak against the trainers and also it would have seemed like there was uncertainty and confusion with her programs and you don’t want that during OI season.

[@miolinette6198]

Can someone roughly tally up Trusova's TES score for Russian test skate? (Just basic value is ok) I hope she can land 5quads again in international competition.

[@almourie]

Ok so I don’t remember exactly but it’s around 95-97 (depending on edge calls and under rotations) CRAZY

[@SergejKrolik]

With reasonable GOEs its around 114-120 TES.

[@miolinette6198]

@@almourie after posting Sergejrolik, I realized what you posted was for only basic value. It is HUGE! Thank you very much for tallying up!

[@miolinette6198]

@@SergejKrolik Wow, it is HUGE! if so, only a few male skaters can beat her! (maybe only Nathan and Yuzuru? ) Thank you for posting!

[@alexac3098]

Opinion: The *only* way Anna is not on the Olympic team is if she is *actually* injured. Her international reputation is huge, AND she has a strong mental game (no competition nerves).

[@Chastaken]

Anna is more loved in Russia than outside. We have to wait how she manages to be in the top with all these young girls.

[@alexac3098]

@@user-7AB23 And I think the only way she doesn't regain her quads....is if she's actually injured.

[@olgaavdeeva6686]

Ladies: 1. Trusova OMG. Loved both her programs, she improved artistically so much. I love the way she skates and commands the ice. Eteri wanted revenge and invested in her just the way she prepared Elizabeth for the world podium. The world is your oyster, go and get it girl! 2. Kostornaya- I don’t share Dave’s enthusiasm. The programs look empty, she looks slow and unemotional. The fillers turned a beautiful young woman into a … Hopefully, she’ll make her 3 axel consistent and be in the mix. 3. Scherbakova- I didn’t like either of her programs. It looks like Eteri has picked her top four. Should she bring the quads back, she’ll be number 2. Currently we’re in the dark. 4. Valieva- awful SP, hideous. Some repetitions of the storm here and there not accented to the music. I love Bolero but when it’s clean. It has a powerful effect, with mistakes it’s a disaster. She knows she’s not going to win if Trusova is healthy. She’s losing her confidence. She doesn’t want to be number 2. 5. Khromyh- absolutely love her SP. She said she’s working on a 3 axel and is hoping to show it this season. If she does, if she has 2 quads, if she polishes her program, she’s my number 3 after Sasha and Kamila. She has no hopes to win, but it’s easier to chase the leaders than retain your position.

[@anuniemoose2209]

I agree with these! Although I think Valieva will improve again once she competes in a legit competition.

[@GrippiAlex]

Is it just me or does Eterri look different? As in more face work different. The look shot between Danny and Eterri after Trusova finished was interesting. Diana Davis has improved though. I agree with your ratings,however I would have loved Liza to be included🧐🇦🇺

[@dkeinow]

Eteri's expressions were my moment of the week! Her face moved!

[@rop888]

She looked really good. Whatever she did is working

[@liceous]

Eteri is the GOAT

[@embeth446]

Definitely had more work done. I don’t think it’s a great look. Her face looked frozen in a sad expression. There were times I thought she was on the verge of tears until she smiled.

[@EnzoFoove]

That was an Eteri girls-only ranking

[@yosily]

Kamila clearly won the short, I’d say she’s ahead of Anna right now. After this weekend I felt I won’t be too sad if Anna is left off the team (before it was Sasha that was on the chopping block for me). My Olympic dream team after this week: Sasha, Kamila, Aliona

[@QQ-wl6yt]

Anna is by far the most unremarkable of these four girls. And as much as I’d like to see Kamila win Olympic gold medals in 2022 and 2026, if Sasha nails 5 quads it will arguably be a fair win.

[@kdcm6690]

Anna did 3 triple triples! And she has quads.

[@sfs6501]

@@QQ-wl6yt she has disadvantage of not having triple axel for SP but lowkey I think she has the most interesting programs (and Sasha too). Not to mention her nerves of steel that makes her fiercely special in any competition.

[@yohanes2034]

@@kdcm6690 you are not allowed to repeat more than 2 triple jumps. She did 3 3Lz and 3 3F with 2 3T. So in the current system she would not be able to do that layout and be credited. There's a reason why if you can't do 3A then 7 triples is the maximum jumps that you can do. Unless she can regain the quads then it's different matter. I guess that jump layout is only a placeholder for her quads if she's ever to gain them back.

[@musawasichelwa1321]

@@yohanes2034 but if you can do 3A you can do more than 7 right?

[@Kim-es2oo]

There is unlimited potential with the Russian skaters because they are government funded and they have a culture of industriousness without excessive emotion.

[@christinethorp3684]

Oh come on, not a single comment about how inappropriate Somodurova's short program music was? It literally said "If you're under him, you're not getting over him" several times! Do they need a native English speaker to explain what the song lyrics mean? I'm no prude, but wow--can someone fill them in? LOL

[@dtdurr]

I did not think we were getting this today. Fantastic.

[@TheSkatingLesson]

❤️

[@KolkhozWoman]

I feel like Scherbakova is currently the only one who is aware of and skating within her limits. That’s why I think she has a chance for the Olympics. The other girls want too much, and it might come back to bite them. I don’t see that happening to Scherbakova. She can’t do a quad? She just won’t do it then, but she’ll have a stronger program than the rest of the girls.

[@embeth446]

Anna is recovering from injury. She will 100% be trying to restore quads this season. I agree though. She is by far the fiercest competitor and nobody should count her out.

[@iamsoverybored878]

Thanks for the heads up on the 2000 men's Goodwill games. God that was chessy.

[@TheSkatingLesson]

❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@QQ-wl6yt]

Kolyada - why did they change two perfect costumes from the 2021 world championships to these abysmal looks. His insane body symmetry and lines let one look past these new costumes but it makes no sense. Also, what a waste with the most banal choice of Schindler’s list. Men’s costumes in general: point undeniably made with the contrast of Nathan Chen’s non-bedazzled untuck long sleeve T-shirt looks Vs Samarin and Kondratiuk (notwithstanding the questionable free program shirt of Nathan in WCh’s 2021). I’d always been quite unimpressed with the taste of people that criticize Vera Wang’s more minimalist looks for Nathan. And the point was irrefutably made today that these costumes actually are a lot more substantive in their taste and styling so they can actually be executed successfully.

[@skaterboy-cz9wj]

I thought Mayan wore Shaw lyn bournes shirt

[@andreagoldstein4070]

I am disappointed we did not see anything from the John Nicks pairs event and Mid Atlantics. I hope they will allow spectators in the future.

[@TheSkatingLesson]

It is the first year we could not attend!

[@meghannpytka3989]

"Who are you kidding? You're going to Cornell." Ha!

[@TheSkatingLesson]

[@cheemengsee490]

If Trusova wins the Olympics with high quality quads like she did in the test skate it'd be the first Olympic gold medal Eteri rightfully deserves.

[@jacquelineblance4861]

Seriously? So according to you, who should have won gold in 2018?

[@angieortizurena3327]

I wouldn’t say rightfully but definitely ETHICALLY deserved!

[@jacquelineblance4861]

@@angieortizurena3327 What does that even mean?

[@asimonp79]

All 6 girls should go to Olympics. I mean there are other skaters that will have less scope at BOTH programs than Trusova in single Free-program. This is crime against humanity not to give them 6 slots.

[@ionaxia93]

Been waiting all day and yessss the return of the pyramid!

[@TheSkatingLesson]

❤️❤️❤️