The figure skating community united in a poignant tribute to the 67 lives lost in the tragic midair collision over the Potomac River. The Legacy on Ice benefit, held at Capital One Arena, brought together current and former U.S. figure skating stars, first responders, and families affected by the January 29th crash involving an Army helicopter and an American Airlines flight.
The event was charged with emotion, with many skaters, including Maxim Naumov, Amber Glenn, and 13-year-old Isabella Aparicio, dedicating their performances to loved ones lost in the tragedy. Tears flowed freely throughout the evening, from performers and audience members alike, as the arena was illuminated by cell phone lights during a moment of silence.
The benefit featured performances by renowned skaters such as Kristi Yamaguchi, Brian Boitano, Johnny Weir, and reigning world champion Ilia Malinin. Each performance was a testament to the resilience and strength of the skating community, offering a message of hope and healing in the face of immense loss.
The event organizers, including Monumental Sports & Entertainment and U.S. Figure Skating, aimed to provide a space for collective grieving and support while raising funds for the victims' families. The dasher boards displayed 67 stars, each representing a life lost, and skaters placed flowers on a table of candles before their routines, symbolizing remembrance and respect.
Skaters spoke about the profound impact of the tragedy on the figure skating community, emphasizing the shared experience of travel and the close-knit nature of the sport. The event served as a reminder of the importance of community support during times of grief.
Beyond the skating performances, the event included a prayer led by Olympic gold medalist Scott Hamilton and a grand finale set to Lady Gaga's "Hold My Hand." The organizers expressed their hope that the event would not only raise significant funds for the families but also inspire continued healing and remembrance.
The Legacy on Ice benefit was broadcast live on Monumental Sports Network and streamed on Peacock, with an encore presentation scheduled for NBC. The widespread coverage aimed to extend the reach of the event's message of support and remembrance to a broader audience.
