"Legacy on Ice": A Figure Skating Tribute to Remember and Support
In the wake of a devastating mid-air collision near Reagan Washington National Airport that claimed the lives of 67 individuals, including numerous members of the U.S. figure skating community, the sport’s biggest names are uniting to honor the victims and support their families. Just over a month after the tragic incident on January 29th, which involved a passenger plane returning from a figure skating event and a military helicopter, U.S. Figure Skating is hosting "Legacy on Ice," a poignant two-hour exhibition.
The event, scheduled for this Sunday at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., promises to be a moving tribute featuring a constellation of figure skating legends, past and present. From the grace of 1968 Olympic champion Peggy Fleming to the modern artistry of 2022 Olympic champion Nathan Chen, the ice will be graced by athletes who represent the rich history and enduring spirit of American figure skating.
"Legacy on Ice" is more than just a display of athletic prowess; it’s a collective act of remembrance and a powerful demonstration of community solidarity. The tragedy has deeply impacted the figure skating world, particularly as the passenger plane involved was carrying many skaters, coaches, and family members returning from the 2025 national championships in Wichita, Kansas, and a subsequent national development camp. Of the 60 passengers aboard the plane, nearly half were connected to the figure skating community, underscoring the profound loss experienced by the sport.
The exhibition serves as a focal point for mourning and healing, providing a space for the figure skating community to come together, share their grief, and celebrate the lives of those who were lost. U.S. Figure Skating and Monumental Sports, the operator of Capital One Arena, envision "Legacy on Ice" as a means to channel collective sorrow into tangible support for the families impacted by the crash. All proceeds from ticket sales and donations will be directed to assisting the families of the victims and honoring the first responders who bravely worked at the scene of the accident.
The details surrounding the tragedy paint a heartbreaking picture. The crash claimed the lives of all 67 individuals aboard the two aircraft, leaving behind a void in the lives of countless families and friends. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is still diligently investigating the cause of the collision, seeking to understand the factors that led to this devastating event.
U.S. Figure Skating has revealed that 28 members of the figure skating community perished in the mid-air collision, a loss that resonates deeply within the sport. Among the victims were 11 young skaters, ranging in age from 11 to 16, representing the promise and future of figure skating. These budding athletes, full of dreams and potential, were tragically taken too soon.
The impact extends beyond the young skaters, encompassing experienced and respected coaches who dedicated their lives to mentoring and guiding aspiring athletes. The loss of four coaches is particularly poignant, including the married couple Vadim Naumov and Evgenia Shishkova, who themselves achieved international acclaim as the 1994 pairs world champions representing Russia. Their contributions to the sport and the lives they touched are immeasurable.
The skaters and their families hailed from various figure skating clubs along the East Coast, particularly in the Washington, D.C. area, Boston, and Delaware. The tragedy has cast a shadow over these communities, leaving a lasting impact on the local figure skating scenes.
Hosting the "Legacy on Ice" exhibition are two iconic figures in American figure skating: 1988 Olympic gold medalist Brian Boitano and 1992 Olympic champion Kristi Yamaguchi. Their presence underscores the significance of the event and their commitment to supporting the figure skating community during this difficult time.
The exhibition’s lineup is a testament to the enduring legacy of American figure skating, featuring performances and appearances by some of the most recognizable and beloved names in the sport’s history. The participation of these legendary athletes not only elevates the event but also serves as a powerful symbol of unity and support.
Adding another layer of emotional depth to the event is the participation of Maxim Naumov, the son of the late Vadim Naumov and Evgenia Shishkova. Maxim, a talented figure skater in his own right, had been scheduled to compete in the Four Continents Figure Skating Championships after a strong showing at nationals. However, he made the difficult decision to withdraw following the tragic loss of his parents. His presence at "Legacy on Ice" is a testament to his resilience and his desire to honor his parents’ memory.
The "Legacy on Ice" exhibition is scheduled to run from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. ET this Sunday at the Capital One Arena in downtown Washington, D.C. For those unable to attend in person, there will be an encore showing of the exhibition on NBC at 1 p.m. ET on March 30th. The event will also be broadcast live on NBC’s streaming service, Peacock, ensuring that audiences across the country can witness this moving tribute.
"Legacy on Ice" is more than just a figure skating exhibition; it’s a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. It’s a time to remember those who were lost, to support their families, and to celebrate the enduring legacy of figure skating. It’s a moment for the figure skating community, and the nation as a whole, to come together in unity and compassion.
