To run the rink, you’ve got to have it all—grace, strength, and plenty of determination. It’s not easy to be an Olympic athlete, but ice skaters make this difficult sport seem effortless. They glide seamlessly backward, forward, and every direction in-between—as if they aren’t balancing on two sharp blades. This is all quite impressive and these athletes deserve it. Major props.
Peggy Fleming was a pioneer in figure skating. Adam Rippon, Gracie Gold and other newcomers have helped to define the sport over the years. There’s a reason why figure skating is the Olympics’ oldest winter sport—it’s enjoyable for both athletes and fans of any country and any age.
However, it’s not all about glittery costumes and triple-axels. Figure skating has seen many tragic accidents and scandals that have rocked the sport. Skaters are not afraid to deal with the most shocking of incidents, from Nancy Kerrigan and Tonya Harding’s violent rivalry to the 1961 U.S. team being killed in a plane crash.
These award-winning Olympians have made Olympic history despite all odds. These names are inspirational, from the first Asian American woman to win gold at Winter Games to the youngest individual event winner, Find everything you need to know about your favorite Ice Skaters here.
Source: Women’s Health Mag