“That was great, that really was a dream,” Kailani cheered after competing in the Ladies Figure Skating short program.
Performing in the short program, Kailani wowed judges and soared through the free skate competition with a score of 56.77 which qualifies her for the upcoming Free Skate competition.
“My main goal was just to have a clean skate and get through to the free skate and I’ve done that so I can’t ask for much more.”
The exuberant Newcastle-native, and recent graduate of St Francis Xavier’s College, Hamilton, glided through the short program with a breathtaking routine which included a tricky double axel and triple-jump combination. Heading into the second-half of her routine, Kailani had the crowd on their feet and cheering.
“I’ve been feeling good the last few days and it felt like everything just went right for me, so I’m glad I was able to go out and do that.” Kailani said.
As Kailani took to the ice, she was supported in the stands by fans, her fellow Team Australia teammates, and, most importantly, her parents.
“Having mum and dad here was amazing. I really felt like they were out there skating with me.
“They’ve been on this journey with me from the very start and this is very much their Olympics as much as mine.”
Kailani will take to the ice again on Friday for the Ladies Figure Skating free skate.
Watch Kailani perform: