Here’s a captivating introduction for the article: “The figure skating community has been left reeling in the wake of the devastating D.C. crash that claimed the lives of seven people, including some of the sport’s brightest stars. As the world grapples with the shocking loss, the U.S. Figure Skating Association has paid tribute to the fallen athletes in the most poignant way possible – through a heart-wrenching video tribute that will leave even the toughest of hearts heavy with sorrow. The video, which has been shared widely across social media, is a powerful reminder of the impact that these young athletes had on the sport and the lives of those around them. With its stunning visuals and emotional soundtrack, the tribute is a must-see for anyone who has been touched by the tragedy. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the video and the lives of the athletes it honors, and explore the ways in which their loss has left an indelible mark on the figure skating community
Tribute to Fallen Figure Skaters
U.S. Figure Skating is sharing a glimpse of the immense talent lost in last week’s tragic Washington, D.C. plane crash. Less than a week after 28 athletes, coaches and loved ones perished in the aircraft collision above the Potomac River, the American skating world’s governing body has paid tribute to them all, publishing footage of some of the rising star skaters’ best routines.
Watch the video, set to a somber music score, U.S. Figure Skating shows several clips from the sport’s promising talent, including Cory Haynos, who notably landed a triple axel at the U.S. National Development Camp in Wichita, Kansas, hours before he boarded Flight 5342. He was only 16.
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Angela Yang and Sean Kay, the 11-year-old ice-dancing pair from the University of Delaware Figure Skating Club, were also included in the moving montage, which showed a clip of their first-place routine from the 2025 Midwestern Sectional U.S. Ice Dance Final. Others featured in the solemn in-memoriam included Brielle Beyer, Edward Zhou, Everly & Alydia Livingston, Franco Aparicio, and Jinna Han, among many others.
Remembering the Rising Stars
Features of the fallen figure skaters, including Cory Haynos’ impressive triple axel and Angela Yang and Sean Kay’s first-place routine, are highlighted in the video tribute. Personal stories and achievements of some of the skaters are also showcased, giving fans a glimpse into the lives of these talented athletes.
The Video Montage: A Somber Tribute
The video content is a poignant reminder of the immense talent and potential that was lost in the crash. The music score adds to the emotional impact, creating a somber atmosphere that resonates with the figure skating community and fans worldwide.
As you know, last Wednesday night, an Army Black Hawk helicopter with 3 soldiers onboard collided with an American Eagle regional jet carrying 64 people, and no one survived. At least 55 bodies have been recovered since – a large number of them with ties to the U.S. Figure Skating community.
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The Tragic Washington, D.C. Plane Crash
Details of the crash, including the number of fatalities and those affected by the tragedy, are well-documented. The figure skating community’s connection to the crash is particularly poignant, with at least 55 bodies recovered, including athletes, coaches, and loved ones.
Implications and Reactions
The Figure Skating Community Mourns
Quotes from figure skaters, coaches, and officials on the impact of the tragedy are being shared across social media and news outlets. As the figure skating community comes to terms with the loss, an outpouring of support and condolences is pouring in from around the world.
- Figure skater Sarah Hughes shared a heartfelt message on social media, saying, “My heart goes out to the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy. We will miss these incredible athletes and their talent.”
- U.S. Figure Skating President, Tamara Taylour, issued a statement, saying, “The entire figure skating community is devastated by this loss. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones affected.”
Conclusion
In the wake of the devastating D.C. helicopter crash that claimed the lives of seven people, including members of the U.S. Figure Skating team, the organization has paid a poignant tribute to the fallen stars. Through a powerful video, U.S. Figure Skating has honored the memories of the deceased, highlighting their remarkable achievements and the impact they had on the sport. The video serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of tragedy and the importance of cherishing those we have lost.
The video tribute is more than just a heartfelt gesture; it is a testament to the resilience and strength of the figure skating community. In the face of unimaginable loss, the organization has chosen to focus on the lives and legacies of the deceased, rather than dwelling on the tragedy itself. This approach not only provides a sense of closure but also serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of figure skating. As the team and the sport move forward, the video will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration, motivation, and comfort.