A Change Is Needed
It is obvious that younger skaters have a distinct advantage over older ice skaters in the elements department. This advantage creates a capabilities zone in Olympic Ice Skating competitions. I don't believe that one seasoned Ladies Ice Skater that I've seen this season, like Medvedeva, or other Russian, or American Ladies over 17 years old have a chance to compete with the new skaters doing quads up to four times in a single routine. You know that it is spectacular to watch and the quad jumps are worth more points when preformed by the tiny - yet strong jumpers in competitions.
If you haven't watched ice skating lately watch some of the older ladies figure skaters and then watch some of the younger skaters doing quads. The ability to just do a quad is becoming the advantage that will change skating. Some of the younger skaters that can do quads are: Shcherbakova who won skate America this year.
Three other skaters have managed quad jumps also in competition this year. Alexandra Trusova- Russia
Elizabet Tursynbaeva- Russia
Gracie Gold has been seen in harness in practice attempting a quad. If she manages a comeback the addition of a quad could propel her into the leader bracket. Mariah Bell hasn't been seen practicing the quads. Maybe leading up to the next Olympics we will see more older skaters attempt quads. Medvedeva turned 20 in November. Will she attempt a quad too?
With that in mind, could something be done to alleviate the pressure on older skaters to implement the quad in their artistry on ice?
Maybe the answer is to allow one quad per routine and emphasize a little more on artistry in scoring going into the Olympics.
Said. My opinion.
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