Skate America is a three-day figure skating competition and has served as U.S. Figure Skating's premier annual international event. The event, founded in 1979 by the United States Figure Skating Association, is one of six global events within the ISU Grand Prix Series and features the top U.S. and world senior level athletes. It has a deep history including World and Olympic medalists Michelle Kwan, Kristi Yamaguchi, Scott Hamilton and Todd Eldredge among its distinguished alumni. Skate America includes a total of 60 athletes (12 ladies, 12 men, eight pairs team and 10 dance teams) from approximately 15 nations. Medals are awarded in four disciplines: men's singles, ladies singles, pair skating, and ice dancing.