The US team is killed in the crash of Sabena flight 548. They'd been on their way to the World Championships in Prague. American figure skating had taken a huge blow.
Tragedies like this remind us that we do not know the future. Nothing happens by coincidence. It is just circumstances that make a difference. One skater is sick and another takes his place. One can’t go because of school. The same was true on 9/11. Some were spared by one thing that changed their outcome. The thing about these tragedies is that we feel we know the victims. Their lives become very real. There is a common sadness we feel especially in such tragic endings. I appreciate the details you filled in on this story, Tara. It makes it all so real.
Stories like this and the crash in the Andes really make me think about the sacrifices made for sports, and how important it is for others to continue in their memory.
Such a loss of lives, so many so young! Flight may technically be the safest mode of travel, but I'll take my chances where possible to keep on the ground and in more of a semblance of control.
I vaguely remember the crash and loss of such a talented team. I don't think that I have heard any details before this. Thank you Tara.
All I can think of when I read these tragedies is the ode by A.E. Housman: "To an Athlete Dying Young."
Tragedies like this remind us that we do not know the future. Nothing happens by coincidence. It is just circumstances that make a difference. One skater is sick and another takes his place. One can’t go because of school. The same was true on 9/11. Some were spared by one thing that changed their outcome. The thing about these tragedies is that we feel we know the victims. Their lives become very real. There is a common sadness we feel especially in such tragic endings. I appreciate the details you filled in on this story, Tara. It makes it all so real.
Stories like this and the crash in the Andes really make me think about the sacrifices made for sports, and how important it is for others to continue in their memory.
Such a loss of lives, so many so young! Flight may technically be the safest mode of travel, but I'll take my chances where possible to keep on the ground and in more of a semblance of control.
Such a tragic loss I was 9 years old and remember watching this on the news so sad 😔. You just never know....Thank you Tara.
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A very tragic accident. So thankful our Skating team was able to recover from this loss.
I was 5 and cannot remember this event. What a terrible accident! These should be remembered, too! Thanks, Tara!
Thank you, Tara.
I don't recall this tragedy,terrible.
I was 10 years old when this occurred, and mostly clueless of world events. But, reading this, this morning after all these years breaks my heart.
Only 4 yo. A terrible loss for everyone. RIP.
🇺🇸 I was three at the time, but have not heard of this tragedy, until now.
Thank you for sharing a dark moment and the team honored 50 years later. 🇺🇲
oh my goodness I never knew this