On a heartfelt Sunday in Washington, D.C., some of the best figure skaters from the past and present came together to honor the victims of a tragic accident. They performed at the Legacy on Ice benefit event to raise funds and support those affected by the devastating midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on January 29. This incident resulted in the loss of 67 lives, including 28 members of the figure skating community.
Kristi Yamaguchi and Brian Boitano, both legends in the sport, hosted the event. They welcomed skaters like Johnny Weir and reigning world champion Ilia Malinin, who dazzled the audience with their performances. Brian Boitano opened with a message of resilience, emphasizing that the skating community could channel their sorrow into something positive.
Event organizer Ted Leonsis noted that the gathering aimed to help the community heal, similar to how events following the 9/11 attacks brought New Yorkers together. Attendees honored the victims with 67 stars on display and placed flowers by a table of candles before taking the ice.
Jason Brown, a 2014 Olympic bronze medalist, expressed solidarity with those impacted by the crash, stating that the loss felt deeply personal for skaters who often travel together. Amber Glenn started the event with an emotional performance to “Rise Up,” releasing her emotions on the ice.
Other notable moments included Peggy Fleming, the 1968 Olympic champion, who hoped the event would bring strength to future generations of skaters. Alysa Liu expressed that being together in a time of grief offered comfort and connection among the community.
During the event, 13-year-old Isabella Aparicio skated in memory of her father and brother, who were also victims of the crash. Her emotional performance moved the audience, and Maxim Naumov, who lost his parents, received heartfelt applause as he left the ice holding an electric candle.
Throughout the night, the skaters paid tribute through their artistry, creating an atmosphere of love and support. Attendees included members of the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning and Washington Capitals, along with many first responders who were part of the recovery efforts. The emotional gathering not only honored the victims but also aimed to raise vital funds for the families affected, addressing their needs for future education and therapy.
Monumental Sports reported that the event streamed live and will have an encore on NBC on March 30. The hope is that the donations will provide the necessary support for those left behind. As Ted Leonsis shared, personalizing such tragic events helps people come together and do good, and this event was a testament to that spirit.
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Ted Leonsis,Brian Boitano,Johnny Weir,Amber Glenn,Ilia Malinin,figure skaters,Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport,American Airlines,Monumental Sports,skating,Kristi Yamaguchi,Washington Capitals,healing process,Tampa Bay Lightning
