The U.S. skating community came together on Sunday for a heartwarming fundraiser and tribute to the victims of a tragic collision between an American Airlines flight and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. The incident, which occurred on January 29 over the Potomac River in Washington, claimed the lives of all 67 people on board, including 28 members of the U.S. figure skating community.
Among the victims were 11 young figure skaters, four coaches, and 13 family members who had been returning from the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Wichita, Kansas. The news of this devastating loss shook the entire skating community and left many in shock and grief.
But in the face of such tragedy, the skating community showed incredible strength and unity as they came together to honor and remember their fallen friends and colleagues. On Sunday night, the two-hour Legacy on Ice event was held, hosted by Olympic figure skating champions Brian Boitano and Kristi Yamaguchi. The event was a beautiful tribute to the victims and a celebration of their love for the sport.
One of the most emotional performances of the night was delivered by Maxim Naumov, a young figure skater who lost his parents, Evgenia Shishkov and Vadim Naumov, in the crash. Maxim skated to a favorite song of his parents, leaving not a dry eye in the audience. It was a powerful and moving moment that truly captured the spirit of the event.
But Maxim was not alone in his tribute. The event also featured performances by other veteran skaters, including Scott Hamilton and Nathan Chen, who all came together to pay their respects and honor the victims. It was a beautiful display of solidarity and support within the skating community.
The Legacy on Ice event was not only a tribute to the victims, but also a fundraiser to support their families and the first responders who were involved in the rescue efforts. The event was organized by Monumental Sports and Entertainment, who have so far raised an impressive $1.2 million. This money will be divided among the families impacted by the collision, the first responders, and U.S. Figure Skating.
Ted Leonsis, chairman of Monumental Sports and Entertainment, expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support and generosity of the community. He stated, “We continue to be in awe of and grateful to this community, whose compassion and support was out in full force for the ‘Legacy on Ice’ event.” It is truly heartwarming to see the skating community come together in such a powerful way to support those in need.
The Associated Press reported that almost 500 first responders and approximately 150 family members of the victims were in attendance at the event. It was a touching and emotional evening, filled with love, support, and remembrance.
For those who were unable to attend the event, there is still a chance to be a part of this incredible cause. NBC is scheduled to broadcast “Legacy on Ice” on March 30, giving viewers the opportunity to witness the beautiful performances and contribute to the fundraiser.
In the midst of such a tragic event, the U.S. skating community has shown incredible strength, resilience, and compassion. They have come together to honor the victims and support their families, proving that in times of darkness, the power of unity and love can shine through. The Legacy on Ice event was a beautiful tribute to the victims and a reminder of the strong bond within the skating community. Let us continue to support and uplift each other, and may the memories of those lost in the crash live on through the love and passion for skating.
