The United States' Ilia Malinin is in third place after the men's short program, highlighting the first day of competition for the United States at the Junior Grand Prix in Lake Placid, New York.
Malinin, who earned 71.34 total points, opened with a powerful triple Axel, one of four jumps that he landed in the program. He ended his program with a Level 4 spin.
American Joseph Klein is just off the podium in fourth place after earning 66.52 total points. Klein opened with a triple loop, and a triple-toeloop-triple toeloop combination. He was awarded two Level 4 spins. He received all positive Grades of Execution (GOE).
Ryan Dunk is in sixth place with 63.89 points. The reigning U.S. junior champion recovered from falls on his opening triple Axel and triple flip-triple toeloop combination, with a solid triple loop and a Level 4 spin.
Japan's Shun Sato leads with 79.19 total points, and Canada's Stephen Gogolev is second with 78.85 total points.
In the pairs competition, the United States are in fifth and tenth after the short program
Kate Finster and Balazs Nagy earned 54.33 and sit in fifth place. The duo opened with a triple twist which was their top scoring element and later landed a throw triple toe.
Teammates Isabelle Martins and Ryan Bedard are tenth place with 41.17 total points. The pair ended their program strong with a Level 4 lift and a throw triple flip.
The Russians hold the top three spots in the competition heading into the free skate.
Competition continues on Friday, Aug. 30 with the rhythm dance, ladies short program and men's free skate. Be sure to catch the latest Team USA updates on U.S. Figure Skating Fan Zone's competition central.
