Figure Skating Stars Unite for Heartfelt Tribute to Victims of DC Plane Collision

In a poignant display of emotion, Maxim Naumov knelt on the ice after his performance, tears streaming down his face as he honored his parents. He held an electric candle aloft, prompting an outpouring of applause from the crowd. Amber Glenn, visibly shaken, broke down following her routine, mirrored by 13-year-old Isabella Aparicio, who skated in memory of her brother Franco and their father Luciano.

“There was not a dry eye in the house,” pairs skater Madison Chock reflected, capturing the profound atmosphere of the evening.

During a moment of silence, a low murmur of sobbing reverberated through the arena as fans turned on their cellphones, transforming the venue into a sea of lights. This touching figure skating event took place on Sunday in the heart of the nation’s capital, aimed at remembering and raising funds for the victims of a tragic plane collision that occurred just outside Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

The Legacy on Ice benefit featured a glittering cast of renowned U.S. figure skaters, both past and present. Together, they paid tribute to the 67 lives lost when an Army helicopter collided with an American Airlines flight, which subsequently crashed into the Potomac River on January 29, including 28 members of the figure skating community, many of whom trained in the Washington area.

“Everyone copes with loss differently, and the past month has been particularly difficult for many of us as we grapple with the enormity of this tragedy,” Evan Bates, an Olympic gold medalist from the 2022 Beijing Games, shared. He expressed hope that the event might bring a sense of healing and a spark of optimism for those affected.

Memorable Performances and Emotional Tributes

The event was hosted by iconic figures in the sport, Kristi Yamaguchi and Brian Boitano. Highlight performances included exhibitions by Glenn, Johnny Weir, and reigning men’s world champion Ilia Malinin. Each routine served as a heartfelt tribute to the victims.

Opening the show, Boitano emphasized resilience, stating, “We are not powerless. As skaters, we have learned to find a positive path forward.” His words resonated with the audience, igniting a sense of hope amid the sorrow.

Ted Leonsis, head of Monumental Sports & Entertainment, played a key role in organizing the event alongside U.S. Figure Skating, the DC Fire and EMS Foundation, and the Greater Washington Community Foundation. He hoped that the event at Capital One Arena could play a similar healing role as concerts and sporting events did in New York after the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

“Sports can facilitate healing,” Leonsis remarked. “Our objective is to create a space for the community to collectively embrace one another and raise funds for families in need.”

A Symbolic Remembering

The dasher boards featured 67 stars, each representing a victim from the collision. Skaters laid flowers on a table adorned with candles at the rink’s edge before beginning their performances. This act of remembrance set a solemn yet unifying tone for the evening.

Jason Brown, a 2014 Olympic team bronze medalist, expressed the communal grief felt by all those in attendance, stating, “We are here to support one another, whether these were our friends on that plane, or those closest to us. Traveling is an integral part of our sport, making this tragedy resonate deeply within our community.”

Glenn kicked off the performances with a moving rendition of Andra Day’s “Rise Up,” breaking down in tears at the center of the rink. Weir dedicated his performance to members of the University of Delaware Figure Skating Club affected by the crash, highlighting the devastating impact on the larger skating community.

In a heartfelt reflection, Malinin remarked, “This was a traumatic experience. We want to ensure that the memories of those lost are preserved as we skate on.” Each skater seemed to channel their grief into their art, making every movement resonate with the audience.

Hopes for Healing

Peggy Fleming, the 1968 Olympic champion, conveyed her hopes that this event would not only heal the community but also strengthen the resolve of skaters going forward. Rising star Alysa Liu also expressed the importance of honoring the memories of those who were lost, stating it would help her maintain focus on her skating goals.

“It’s been a struggle, but coming together with everyone here is incredibly reassuring. We all share a unique bond during times like this,” she shared after her performance of Mariah Carey’s “Hero.”

Scott Hamilton, a legendary figure from the 1984 Olympics, led a prayer before a stirring ensemble performance, encouraging reflection and unity. Malinin’s jump-filled routine dazzled the audience, and Lady Gaga’s “Hold My Hand” concluded the emotional two-hour show in a powerful finale.

“It was a remarkable event,” noted U.S. Figure Skating interim CEO Sam Auxier. “You could feel the emotions pouring through every performance, especially with Ilia. There was a palpable connection to what happened underlining their performances.”

A Community Coming Together

Amid the sellout crowd of over 15,000 were numerous first responders and their families, some arriving from as far as Baltimore to participate in the rescue and recovery efforts. Their presence highlighted the interconnectedness of the community and the necessity for collective healing.

“This scene was incredibly challenging for first responders,” said Amy Mauro, executive director of the DC Fire and EMS Foundation. “The experiences they endured are difficult and will remain with them for a long time. This event is part of their own grieving and healing process as well.”

Beyond honoring the lives lost, this gathering served to raise funds for the victims’ families to cover college tuition for young children and essential therapies. Monica Dixon, chief administrative officer for Monumental, emphasized the need for the funds to be utilized as each family sees fit.

The event streamed live on Monumental Sports Network and was set to be rebroadcast by NBC, further amplifying its message of hope and community support. Leonsis concluded on a positive note, expressing faith in the power of community bonds, stating, “Personalizing these tragedies allows us to come together and respond in powerful ways.”