Anastasia Vaipan-Law and Luke Digby achieved a remarkable milestone by qualifying for the free skate in the Olympic figure skating pairs event. The five-time British champions showcased their talent in Milan after recently finishing seventh at the European Championships in Sheffield.
Olympic Debut and Performance Highlights
The pair made their Olympic debut during the team event last week. Vaipan-Law and Digby experienced a mix of emotions while waiting for their turn to compete again at the Assagio Forum. Their score of 66.07 placed them ninth overall, just shy of their career best and secured their spot among the top 16 couples advancing to the free skate.
Individual Reflections
Following their performance, Vaipan-Law expressed their determination. “We were both absolutely ready to give it 100% and make sure we delivered,” she stated. Her confidence was bolstered by observing the highs and lows of fellow competitors during the event. She felt this perspective helped her mentally prepare for their performance.
Digby echoed these sentiments. Although he felt initially discouraged after their first skate in the team event, he was elated after their latest routine. He attributed their success to the choreography by Olympic champion Sir Christopher Dean and the music selection, “Lighthouse” by Patrick Watson. “We’re pretty overwhelmed in the most positive way ever,” Digby remarked, highlighting the significance of skating well at the Olympic Games.
The Impact of Team Support
Both athletes appreciated the support from their team and family during this intense competition. Digby mentioned, “It’s our second home now. We’ve got such a nice team around us, and all our family were here today.” Their experience at the Olympics has been enriching, encompassing both competition and camaraderie.
Looking Ahead
As they prepare for the free skate, Vaipan-Law and Digby are focused on maintaining their momentum. The couple’s shared passion for the sport and their commitment to excellence will undoubtedly play a critical role in their upcoming performances.
