The article highlights the journey of figure skating pair, Rika Miura and Ryuichi Kihara, also known as 'Rikuryu,' as they prepare for the upcoming Milan-Cortina Olympics. Initially, both skaters were competing in different pairs; Kihara ended his previous partnership in April 2019 and shortly after, he received a call from Miura, inviting him for a tryout. The chemistry between them was immediate, with Kihara recalling the moment they successfully performed their first twist lift, stating that it felt as if 'lightning had struck' and he was certain they were meant to be partners.

The duo faced significant challenges, particularly during the pandemic, which forced the cancellation of many competitions in 2020, including the World Championships. They continued to train in Canada, where Miura experienced homesickness, leading to some emotional moments that strengthened their bond as partners. Kihara remarked how these shared experiences deepened their connection and helped them grow as a pair.

In 2021, they earned a spot at the Olympics by finishing 10th at the World Championships, marking a significant milestone in their career. The article emphasizes their resilience and determination, showcasing their journey through adversity as they now aim for Olympic glory, with the hopes of bringing home a gold medal to Japan.