'Like A Fantasy': Burlington Co. Figure Skater Relishes Olympic Experience

MILAN, ITALY — Isabeau Levito's first-career Olympics came to a close Thursday as the Burlington County figure skater finished 12th in the women's free skate.

Levito, 18, grew up in Mount Holly and now lives in Mount Laurel, where she trains. Her Olympic debut in Milan held special meaning, as her mother was born there before immigrating to the U.S. in 1997.

Almost three decades later, Levito took to the ice minutes away from her grandmother's home.

During her routine, Levito made what NBC commentator Tara Lipinski called "a shocking mistake," falling during a triple flip. The nine-point deduction took her out of medal contention.

But the moment was still significant for Levito.

"This has been a wonderful experience," she told reporters afterward. "This has been like a fantasy, I really loved being here."

Fellow "Blade Angel" Alysa Liu won the first U.S. gold medal in the event since 2002.

Levito began figure skating at age 3 in Mount Laurel. She is the 2023 U.S. national champion, a three-time U.S. National bronze medalist and the 2024 World silver medalist.