Good afternoon figure skating fans! I have followed all of your interesting and knowledgeable commentary over the years and have learned A LOT form this forum. I have been a loooong time figure skating fan since the days of Jill Trenary. That being said, this is a first time post...so be kind! After watching skating over this year (thank God for Peacock!), I seriously doubt that any US skater will make the final flight at the Olympics. In fact, it should be considered a "win" if they make the second to the last flight in the FS final. We just DO NOT have the goods to beat the Russian ladies (and Japan), and probably not even through the next Olympic cycle. However, we should send out strongest ladies contingent regardless. Sending someone as a "reward" for earning a third spot, or to send someone not ready just to gain experience makes no sense in my humble opinion. It would help our somewhat weakened international standing in this sport to do as well as possible in the Olympics. So my best guess is: Alysa, Mariah, and Karen/Bradie. I WILL be starting a new thread regarding my opinion on the Russian dominance in this sport, across all disciplines and how it is ruining the sport of figure skating.
Editing to add a PS: Isn't Mariah's simpler costumes a refreshing change for the overly decorated and accessorized costumes of some other competitors? Sequined gloves, beaded headbands, bedazzled costumes, and my least fav...tights over the boots (looks clunky). Need I say more?