Amber Glenn Makes History as the First Openly LGBTQ+ U.S. Women’s Figure Skating Champion
A Triumph for Equality, Representation, and the Spirit of the Sport
In a groundbreaking moment that reverberated through the world of figure skating, Amber Glenn etched her name into the annals of history as the first openly LGBTQ+ skater to claim the U.S. women’s title. Her victory at the 2024 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, held in Columbus, Ohio, marked a watershed moment in the fight for equality and representation in the sport, sending a beacon of hope and inspiration to countless young skaters and fans alike.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Authenticity
Glenn’s journey to the top of the podium was not without its challenges. Having graced the podium multiple times at nationals, including a third-place finish in 2023, she finally ascended to the pinnacle with an overall score of 210.46, leaving no doubt about her exceptional talent and artistry. But her triumph extended far beyond her personal accomplishment.
By openly embracing her identity, Glenn shattered barriers and demonstrated that it is possible to achieve greatness while living authentically. Her victory served as a powerful testament to the transformative power of self-acceptance and the importance of creating an inclusive environment in the sport.
“Being the first openly queer women’s champion is incredible,” Glenn said, her voice filled with emotion. “When I came out originally, I was terrified and I was scared it would affect my scores or something, but I didn’t care. It was worth it to see, over the last couple of years, the amount of young people that feel more comfortable in their environments at the rink.”
A Poignant Performance and a Resounding Message of Resilience
Glenn’s triumph was particularly poignant given her uncharacteristic errors during Friday’s free skate. Despite executing a triple axel early in the program, she encountered a few missed elements later, costing her valuable points. However, she displayed remarkable composure and resilience, refusing to let setbacks define her performance.
Her ability to overcome adversity and deliver a powerful message of resilience resonated with the audience and solidified her status as a role model for young athletes everywhere. Glenn’s victory was a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human heart and the power of perseverance in the face of challenges.
A Historic Moment for Women’s Figure Skating
Beyond Glenn’s personal achievement, the 2024 U.S. Figure Skating Championships also witnessed another historic moment when 15-year-old Mia Kalin became the first woman to cleanly land a quadruple jump, a skill with four turns, at the U.S. Championships. Although Kalin did not finish on the podium, her groundbreaking achievement marked a significant milestone in the evolution of women’s figure skating.
Kalin’s feat showcased the incredible athleticism and technical prowess of women skaters and pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the sport. Her performance served as an inspiration to young skaters everywhere, demonstrating that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
A Thrilling Showdown in the Men’s Competition
The men’s competition at the 2024 U.S. Figure Skating Championships was equally captivating, with reigning champion Ilia Malinin delivering a masterful performance in the short program. His commanding lead of almost 20 points over second-place skater Maxim Naumov set the stage for a thrilling showdown in the free skate.
Malinin, known as the “quad god” for his exceptional quad-jumping skills, lived up to his reputation by executing two quad skills in his program. Although he did not attempt the quad axel, the move that propelled him into the record books in 2022, Malinin’s technical prowess was on full display.
Jason Brown, the 2015 U.S. champion and a fan favorite, encountered a minor setback in the short program, suffering a fall that resulted in a one-point deduction. Despite the uncharacteristic error, Brown remained upbeat and positive, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to compete at the national championships.
A Grand Finale Awaits in the Ice Dance and Pairs Competitions
The 2024 U.S. Figure Skating Championships will conclude on Saturday with the ice dance and pairs competitions. The long programs in both disciplines promise to deliver captivating performances and intense competition, as the nation’s top skaters vie for the coveted titles.
The ice dance competition features a talented field of teams, including reigning champions Madison Chock and Evan Bates, who will be aiming to extend their dominance. Challenger teams such as Kaitlin Hawayek and Jean-Luc Baker, as well as Caroline Green and Michael Parsons, will be pushing the boundaries of creativity and technical skill in their quest for the gold medal.
In the pairs competition, reigning champions Alexa Knierim and Brandon Frazier will face stiff competition from up-and-coming teams such as Ashley Cain-Gribble and Timothy LeDuc, as well as Jessica Calalang and Brian Johnson. The pairs free skate is always a highlight of the national championships, showcasing the skaters’ athleticism, grace, and synchronicity.
The U.S. Figure Skating Championships serve as a platform for the nation’s best skaters to showcase their talents and compete for the honor of representing the United States at international competitions. The event is a celebration of the sport, bringing together athletes, coaches, and fans from across the country in a shared passion for figure skating.