The top U.S. figure skaters are in Columbus this week

• This is the first time Columbus has hosted the competition, which features nearly 200 skaters.

How it works: Individually ticketed events ($25-77.50) are scheduled through Sunday and a few weekend finals packages ($163-284) are still available.

• A Skating Spectacular show caps the festivities at 7:30pm Sunday ($30-56.50).
• During Winter Olympics years, the championships are the final qualifying event prior to nominating Team USA members.

Be smart: The Greater Columbus Sports Commission has compiled a helpful guide, including a schedule of events.

Of note: Two Olympic legends will sign autographs on the concourse — Nancy Kerrigan (5:30-6:30pm Friday) and Gracie Gold (1:15-2:15pm Sunday).

• There is also a photo booth, sign-making and face-painting for kids.
• Practices today and tomorrow at the Ice Haus are free to attend.

Plus: Watch live on NBC or Peacock. This schedule include names of top athletes to watch.

💭 My thought bubble: I attended some junior-level contests Tuesday, hopeful I might spot the nation's next Michelle Kwan or Brian Boitano.

• Disclaimer: I'm hardly this event's target audience.
• I proudly share an alma mater with Scott Hamilton — Go Falcons! — and I've watched "Blades of Glory," but embarrassingly, that's where my knowledge of the sport ends.

Yes, but: I was entertained, even if I didn't understand the technicalities.

• With tickets to even the most popular events starting at $25-30, it isn't a huge investment to check it out.

The bottom line: Any competition that puts a national focus on our city and its sports scene is surely a good thing.