Playing Things Smart

PLAYING THINGS SMART and not taking unnecessary risks can often reward an athlete. American figure skater Todd Eldredge was proof of this fact in the 1998 United States championships.

The 26-year-old performer faced criticism for never attempting a quadruple jump in competition. Seeking his fifth U.S. title, the son of a Cape Cod commercial fisherman unveiled the spectacular maneuver for the first time. He completed the four revolutions successfully but leaned awkwardly on his landing and fell to the ice early in his routine. Despite the fall, the audience cheered.

Showing his veteran experience, Todd recovered with grace and style. He completed a triple axel flawlessly. With music from the movie Gettysburg playing in the background, the skater hit six triple jumps and exhibited his characteristic perfect spins.

Eldredge’s chief competitor, Virginia native Michael Weiss, attempted two quads. Although Weiss two-footed both jumps as well as a triple axel and a triple flip, five other clean jumps landed the 21-year-old the runner-up spot and a berth on the 1998 Olympic team.

Seven of the judges awarded Eldredge first place, and all gave him solid marks of 5.8s and 5.9s, ensuring his fifth United States title and another shot at Olympic gold.

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POINT One fall in figure skating can be forgiven. Two mistakes usually cost the athlete big points. Todd Eldredge knew that. When he faltered on the quad, he decided to do his best on safer jumps and attempt perfection on less risky moves. He wanted the U.S. championship. But more than that, he wanted to make the Olympic team with a top-three finish.

The apostle Paul reminds us to be wise and not make foolish decisions. Eldredge’s choice to be careful paid off, and he stood atop the medal stand.

GOAL! Try to jump and turn around as many times as you can in the air. Did you make it all the way around once? twice? Praise God that he gives us the ability to act wisely.