USA Ice Dance Pairs Set for Winter Olympics Free Dance Competition
Team USA is poised to make history at the upcoming Winter Olympics with three ice dance couples competing in the free dance event. The Olympics are set to take place in Milano Cortina in 2026.
Overview of Team USA’s Ice Dance Couples
The American teams include:
- Madison Chock and Evan Bates
- Emilea Zingas and Vadym Kolesnik
- Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko
Chock and Bates, who are among the favorites, finished second in their preliminary performances. Meanwhile, Zingas and Kolesnik secured sixth place, and Carreira and Ponomarenko finished in eleventh.
Recent Performances and Scores
Carreira and Ponomarenko showcased their talent by scoring a season-best total of 197.62 points. They skated to a medley featuring “Deceit and Betrayal” by Audiomachine and achieved a score of 119.47 points for their free dance.
Zingas and Kolesnik also delivered an impressive performance, eclipsing their personal best with a score of 83.53 in the rhythm dance. They performed to “Romeo and Juliet” by Sergei Prokofiev, finishing their program in 15th place.
Historical Significance
The prospect of multiple American ice dance pairs medaling is unprecedented. Previously, no two U.S. teams have ever reached the podium together in ice dance history. In comparison, at the 2018 Pyeongchang Games, three Team USA pairs finished in the top 10, while at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, three pairs ranked in the top 11.
Athlete Perspectives
Ponomarenko expressed a sense of calm, emphasizing the experience gained from competing on such a big stage. He mentioned their background in World Championships but acknowledged that this event is unique.
Kolesnik also shared his experience, noting that he didn’t feel the typical nerves associated with Olympic competition. He views this event as a stepping stone for their future goals.
Planned Elements in Free Dance Program
Each couple has choreographed a unique free dance for their performances:
Emilea Zingas and Vadym Kolesnik
- Choreographic Assisted Jump/Lifting Movement
- One Foot Turns Sequence
- Synchronized Twizzles
- Dance Spin
- Curve Lift
- Diagonal Step Sequence
Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko
- One Foot Turns Sequence
- Dance Spin
- Straight Line Lift
- Choreographic Character Step Sequence
- Synchronized Twizzles
- Circular Step Sequence
As the free dance competition approaches, anticipation builds for Team USA. Fans are hopeful that these talented ice dancers will achieve remarkable results at the Olympics.
