US representative Ellie Kamm achieves season best in pairs short program; niece of the coach who led Yamanashi Gakuin University to victory in the Hakone Ekiden
Ellie Kamm of the United States pairs team achieved her season best in the short program at the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, claiming seventh place overall.
Ellie Kamm, representing the United States in pairs figure skating at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, displayed a strong performance alongside her partner Danny O'Shea, earning a personal season-best score of 71.87 in the short program. The routine, set to the popular piece 'Hallelujah,' evoked a special emotional response for Kamm, who proudly expressed her satisfaction with the season's program. Finishing in seventh place, Kamm was just 2.73 points behind the third place, showcasing her competitive spirit.
Kamm's unique background adds a personal touch to her Olympic experience; her mother is Japanese, and she is the niece of the celebrated coach Makoto Ueda, who led Yamanashi Gakuin University to three overall victories in the Hakone Ekiden relay race. This connection to Japanese athletic excellence further highlights Kamm's diverse cultural heritage, bridging two nations through sport. Additionally, Kamm was part of the U.S. team that claimed gold in the team event, marking a significant achievement for her and her compatriots.
To refocus after the team's initial competition, Kamm took some time away from the athlete's village for mental and physical recovery. This brief retreat helped her rejuvenate and prepare for the upcoming challenges with a refreshed mindset. Her outstanding score in this short program surpassed her earlier team performance, indicating that her approach to balance and recovery is positively influencing her competitive edge at the Olympics.