Nathan Chen outclassed the rest of the field to take gold at Skate America ©Getty Images

Two-time world champion Nathan Chen clinched a record-equalling fourth consecutive Skate America title as he converted his overnight lead into victory in Las Vegas.

The 21-year-old American finished nearly 25 points clear of nearest rival and compatriot Vincent Zhou at the end of the first International Skating Union Grand Prix of Figure Skating event of the season at the Orleans Arena.

Chen eased to the gold medal with a score of 299.15 points, with Zhou second on 175.74 and Canada's Keegan Messing - one of eight international athletes taking part at the competition - third on 174.02.

The American star, winner of the world title in 2018 and 2019, was rewarded with 187.98 points for his free skating routine as he ensured he remained undefeated since finishing fifth at the 2018 Winter Olympic Games in Pyeongchang.

"Of course, I'm a little disappointed about the jumps that I missed," Chen said.

"I'm just thrilled to be here at this competition, so thankful to everyone who has been involved, to bring us together and how smoothly it went so that skaters just could focus on skating."

Mariah Bell secured her first Grand Prix title with victory in the women's event ©Getty Images
Mariah Bell secured her first Grand Prix title with victory in the women's event ©Getty Images

Chen's team mate Mariah Bell won the women's event to secure her first Grand Prix of Figure Skating title.

Bell clung on to top spot despite finishing fourth in the free skating standings after missing her last jump, a triple lutz attempt.

The 24-year-old, a multiple Grand Prix medallist, scored 136.25 points to end on 212.73 overall.

Bradie Tennell, also of the United States, did enough for silver on 211.07, while Audrey Shin completed the clean sweep for the hosts by earning bronze on 206.15.

"It was a little shaky and I felt a little bit stiff but I'm excited to be able to get my long program out kind of in a competition setting," said Bell.

"I am walking away from this performance a little bit disappointed but at the end of the day I can be proud."

Alexa Scimeca Knierim and Brandon Frazier of the US marked their Grand Prix debut in style as they claimed victory in the pairs event with 214.77 points.

Jessica Calalang and Brian Johnson sealed silver on 207.40, while Audrey Lu and Misha Mitrofanov finished third having amassed 189.65 points.

In the ice dance event, double World Championships medallists Madison Hubbell and Zachary Donohue scored 211.39 to secure their third Skate America crown.

Kaitlyn Hawayek and Jean-Luc Baker claimed the silver medal on 202.47 points, with Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko taking bronze on 185.78.