Anastasia Vaipan-Law and Luke Digby produced a stunning season’s best to book their place in Olympic figure skating pairs free skate.
The five-time British champions arrived in Milan brimming with confidence following their recent seventh place at the European Championships in Sheffield.
They made their Olympic debut in last week’s team event and admitted it’s been an anxious few days watching others compete before taking the stage again at the Assagio Forum.
Their score of 66.07 was only fractions off their career best and good enough for ninth overall, with just the top 16 couples advancing to dance again.
“I think we were both determined to make sure we were absolutely spot on,” said Vaipan-Law
“We were both absolutely ready to give it 100% and make sure we delivered. We really did do that. I think we both finished that programme delighted with the way it went. We couldn’t have done anymore.
“What’s been good being here so late into the competition is that I feel like it has helped me mentally. I have seen the ups and downs of every single athlete. It’s been such a range of emotions that it has allowed me to take a step back.”
Digby was downbeat after the couple’s first skate in the team event but was all smiles after this routine, which was choreographed by Olympic champion Sir Christopher Dean and set Lighthouse by Patrick Watson.
“We’re pretty overwhelmed in the most positive way ever,” said Digby.
“It’s something you dream of to skate your best, especially at the Olympic Games.
“I think the gap really helped, it almost feels like two different competitions. That week feels almost like a month. It’s our second home now. We’ve got such a nice team around us and all our family were here today.
“I think we have embraced everything, the whole event of the Olympics. It’s been nice having the little bit of time watching events.”
Sportsbeat 2026
