A Historic Tribute: Figure Skating’s Biggest Names Unite for a Cause
This weekend, Washington, D.C., will host an extraordinary event that blends athleticism, artistry, and compassion. The "Legacy on Ice" benefit tribute, taking place on Sunday, will bring together some of the most celebrated names in figure skating to honor the victims of a tragic midair collision near Ronald Reagan International Airport. Among the stellar lineup are Nathan Chen, Nancy Kerrigan, Peggy Fleming, Isabeau Levito, Madison Chock, and Evan Bates, all of whom are converging to support the families of those who lost their lives in the disaster. While the event is a celebration of the sport’s legacy, its primary purpose is to serve as a beacon of hope and solidarity during a time of immense grief.
A Tragic Loss That Shook the Nation
On January 29, the nation was gripped by devastation when an Army helicopter collided with an American Airlines flight, resulting in the deaths of 67 people, including 28 members of the figure skating community. The crash, which occurred over the Potomac River, sent shockwaves through the tight-knit world of figure skating, leaving fans and athletes alike in mourning. The loss of so many lives, including those deeply connected to the sport, has inspired an outpouring of support and solidarity. The "Legacy on Ice" tribute is a testament to the resilience and compassion of the skating community, which is coming together to honor the memories of those lost and to raise funds for their loved ones.
A Star-Studded Lineup for a Noble Cause
The "Legacy on Ice" event boasts a truly unprecedented assembly of figure skating legends and current stars. Olympic hopeful Isabeau Levito and reigning ice dancing world champions Madison Chock and Evan Bates, who are strong contenders for gold at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Games, are among the many skaters set to perform. They will be joined by iconic figures like Nancy Kerrigan and Peggy Fleming, whose contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark. Johnny Weir, Kristi Yamaguchi, and Scott Hamilton are also part of the lineup, ensuring that the event will be a celebration of both past and present excellence in figure skating. Brian Boitano, the 1988 Olympic champion, will serve as the emcee, bringing his signature charisma and depth of experience to the proceedings.
A Community United in Grief and Hope
The figure skating community is renowned for its camaraderie, and the "Legacy on Ice" event exemplifies this spirit of unity. Brian Boitano emphasized the extraordinary nature of the gathering, noting that it is rare to see such a diverse group of skaters—past champions, current stars, and rising talents—come together for a single cause. "It says so much about our figure skating community and how tight-knit we are and the support that we have for each other," he remarked. The event is not just a tribute to the victims but also a way to rebuild and heal in the aftermath of the tragedy. As Boitano poignantly stated, "This is a show about hope and inspiration and supporting families in need."
Organizing a Historic Event in Record Time
Pulling together an event of this magnitude in less than a month is no small feat, but the collective efforts of Monumental Sports & Entertainment, U.S. Figure Skating, the DC Fire & EMS Foundation, and the Greater Washington Community Foundation have made it possible. The two-hour show, which could easily have stretched to five hours given the number of participants, will air live on the Peacock streaming service and locally on the Monumental Sports Network. An encore performance will be broadcast on NBC on March 30, ensuring that the event reaches a wide audience. The rapid organization of the tribute is a testament to the dedication and generosity of the skating community.
A Reunion of Legends for a Greater Purpose
For many of the skaters involved, the "Legacy on Ice" event is more than just a performance—it’s a reunion. Brian Boitano, Kristi Yamaguchi, Nancy Kerrigan, Paul Wylie, Scott Hamilton, and Peggy Fleming, among others, have shared countless moments on and off the ice over the years. These legends, who have inspired generations of skaters and fans, are coming together once again to make a difference. Their presence underscores the enduring legacy of figure skating and the profound impact it has on the lives of those who love it. As Sam Auxier, the interim CEO of U.S. Figure Skating, noted, "The historic star power on display reflects the passion, dedication, and legacy of this sport."
A Celebration of Life and Legacy
In the end, the "Legacy on Ice" tribute is not just a skating event—it’s a celebration of life, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and a reminder of the power of community. Through their performances, the skaters will honor the memories of those who were lost while offering hope and comfort to their families. As the skating community takes to the ice this weekend, they will do so with a shared purpose: to inspire, to heal, and to support one another in the face of tragedy. The event is a fitting tribute to the victims and a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of figure skating.
