Monday, February 07, 2022

Kamila Valieva

History will remember her name.

Kamila,  fifteen years old, from Russia, became the first ladies figure skater to land a quad jump at the Olympics. In fact, she completed two quads during her free skate in the finals of the team competition. 

Kamila has it all - incredible athleticism combined with lovely artistry. Many in the skating world are saying she is the best the sport has ever witnessed. She completes every jump with her arms over her head, which results in a higher grade of execution and garners her more points.

Unfortunately,  the performance was bittersweet. While everyone watching applauded her triumph and celebrated her extraordinary achievement, Kamila exited the ice with a pained expression and commiserated with her coaches - because she fell on one jump. 

I felt so bad for her, and I have to admit I was frustrated too. Girl, you just landed TWO quads! You made history! Be happy! Be proud of yourself. Revel in your success. Don't dwell on the one moment that went wrong. The skating world will remember your incredible success, not that one stumble. In fact, that fall shows that you are human, not a jumping, spinning robot. 

Kamila won the ladies free skate by about thirty points. Seeing her score lifted her spirits. She waved, and her eyes smiled above her mask.

I was grinning and applauding. 

And congratulations to Team USA, who won the silver medal in the skating team competition. 

librarianintx 

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