Grand Prix Series Continues on Home Soil in Lake Placid
Lake Placid takes center stage this week as the site of the 2025 Saatva Skate America, where 17 U.S. athletes continue their journey toward the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milan, Italy. Running from November 14-16 at the historic 1980 Herb Brooks Arena, this event marks a significant stop in the Grand Prix calendar.
Skate America, traditionally the first event of the Grand Prix series, is where U.S. stars look to solidify their positions for the upcoming ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final in Nagoya, Japan. This experienced U.S. delegation boasts a whopping 38 Grand Prix medals, setting the stage for exciting competition.
The event is headlined by reigning World champions Alysa Liu in the women’s event, alongside ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates. These athletes can secure their spots to Japan with a gold or silver medal performance in Lake Placid. Chock and Bates, recognized as 2022 Olympic team event gold medalists, are strong favorites and seeking their 22nd Grand Prix medal as a team.
Competing for medals alongside them are Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko, U.S. ice dance contenders who have consistently secured top finishes. Oona Brown and Gage Brown, recent medalists at international events, will showcase their skills, aiming to make an impact.
Alysa Liu will be making her Skate America debut, joining fellow contenders Starr Andrews and Josephine Lee in the women’s event, promising a thrilling lineup. Andrews, a veteran of the event, aims to continue her remarkable journey after historic achievements last season.
In men’s competition, two-time Olympian Jason Brown returns looking for redemption after an extended break. Similarly, Liam Kapeikis aims to build on his strong current form. In the pairs category, Emily Chan and Spencer Howe make their Skate America return, alongside Olivia Flores and Luke Wang, who are set to compete in their Grand Prix debut.
This year marks the sixth time Skate America is hosted in Lake Placid—the first since 2017, adding historical significance to the event. Tickets for the event remain available, and for those not attending in person, NBC Sports will provide television coverage, with Peacock offering livestream options for all performances.
Sport fans won’t want to miss the thrilling action as the Grand Prix Series captures eyes worldwide. Tune in to experience the excitement at the 2025 Saatva Skate America!
