2009 Skate America: A Conservative's Take on the Ice

Picture this: a chilly October in Lake Placid, New York, where the 2009 Skate America competition took place, and the ice was as cold as the liberal hearts that would soon be shattered by the results. This event, part of the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating, was a spectacle of athleticism and artistry, showcasing skaters from around the globe. But let's be honest, the real story here isn't just about the triple axels and toe loops; it's about the triumph of traditional values over the politically correct nonsense that often plagues the world of sports.

First off, let's talk about the winners. Evan Lysacek, the American figure skater, took home the gold in the men's singles. His performance was a testament to hard work, discipline, and good old-fashioned American grit. While some might argue that figure skating is all about artistry and expression, Lysacek's victory was a reminder that technical skill and precision are what truly matter. It's a slap in the face to those who think that sports should be more about feelings than results.

Then there's the ladies' singles, where Kim Yuna of South Korea dominated the ice. Her performance was nothing short of spectacular, and it was a clear message to the world: meritocracy still reigns supreme. In a time when participation trophies are handed out like candy, Kim's victory was a refreshing reminder that excellence is earned, not given. It's a concept that seems to be lost on those who believe that everyone deserves a pat on the back just for showing up.

The pairs competition saw the Chinese duo, Shen Xue and Zhao Hongbo, take the top spot. Their win was a testament to the power of partnership and the importance of working together towards a common goal. It's a lesson that many could learn from, especially those who think that individualism is the only path to success. In a world where everyone is out for themselves, Shen and Zhao's victory was a reminder that sometimes, two heads are better than one.

Ice dancing, often criticized for being more about theatrics than technique, saw the American team of Meryl Davis and Charlie White take the silver medal. While they didn't win gold, their performance was a nod to the importance of tradition and the value of sticking to what works. In a sport that often rewards the avant-garde, Davis and White's success was a reminder that sometimes, the classics are classic for a reason.

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: the judging. Figure skating has long been plagued by accusations of bias and unfair scoring. But at the 2009 Skate America, the results were a clear indication that the judges were finally getting it right. The winners were those who truly deserved it, based on skill and performance, not on who could put on the most dramatic show. It's a victory for fairness and integrity, values that are often overlooked in today's world.

Of course, there will always be those who complain about the results, claiming that their favorite skater was robbed or that the judging was biased. But the truth is, the 2009 Skate America was a triumph of meritocracy over mediocrity. It was a reminder that in the end, hard work and dedication will always win out over empty gestures and hollow promises.

So, while the liberals might whine about the lack of diversity in the winners' circle or the supposed unfairness of the judging, the rest of us can take solace in the fact that the 2009 Skate America was a victory for traditional values. It was a celebration of excellence, a showcase of skill, and a reminder that sometimes, the best man—or woman—really does win.