Importance Score: 55 / 100 🔵
BOSTON—Figure skater Maxim Naumov concluded his routine at a recent event, halting at center ice to gaze skyward and touch his heart. He then whispered words in Russian to his departed parents:
“This is dedicated to you. You are with me. I love you both.”
Figure Skating Community Mourns Loss in Plane Crash
Vadim Naumov and Evgenia Shishkova, former world pairs champions and Maxim’s parents, tragically passed away in January when their aircraft collided with a military helicopter near Washington, D.C. The crash into the Potomac River resulted in 67 fatalities, including over two dozen individuals returning from a development camp linked to the U.S. figure skating championships in Wichita, Kansas.
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Naumov Becomes Symbol of Grief
Maxim Naumov, a national fourth-place finisher, had already returned home prior to the accident. Following the disaster, he has become a prominent figure representing the profound impact of the tragedy, especially within the close-knit figure skating community.
“I feel immense support and affection; it’s constant,” Naumov expressed on Sunday. “The outpouring has surpassed anything imaginable and truly aids in navigating this difficult time.”
“It’s profound,” he added. “It fills my heart deeply.”
Ice as Sanctuary
Earlier in the month, Naumov, 23, participated in a Washington benefit show that amassed over $1.2 million for the families affected by the plane crash. Speaking to reporters following his performance at the world championships gala on Sunday, Naumov shared that the rink provides a mental respite from the ongoing sorrow.
“Once I step onto the ice, my mind enters a state of focus, tranquility, or stillness — I’m unsure exactly — but it feels like a complete escape,” he explained. “I communicate with them, and they offer guidance.”
“I become oblivious to the audience, the commentators, everything external. It’s an internal dialogue, enabling a sense of calm and connection to my inner feelings,” Naumov elaborated. “They are ever-present, and contemplating them, especially while skating, is incredibly comforting.”
World Championships Bring Tragedy Back into Focus
The world championships, hosted in Boston at the venue of the Celtics and Bruins, served as a somber reminder of the plane crash and the esteemed century-old Skating Club of Boston, a longtime institution for both Olympic athletes and amateur skaters.
Tributes to Victims
A tribute ceremony was held on Wednesday between event sessions, and reminders of the devastating loss were frequent throughout the competition.
Pairs skaters Alisa Efimova and Misha Mitrofanov, who finished sixth, displayed images of the Boston club members lost in the crash: two young skaters, their mothers, and the two coaches. Amber Glenn, the reigning U.S. champion, wore a T-shirt commemorating the young skaters who perished.
Ilia Malinin, the “Quad God” and newly crowned world champion, concluded Sunday’s show with a performance dedicated to the crash victims, visibly emotional and tearful at its conclusion.
Naumov’s Emotional Gala Performance
Naumov’s introduction on Sunday identified him as representing the Boston club and mentioned his three national fourth-place results. While the crash wasn’t explicitly referenced, many spectators were aware of his personal connection. He received an exceptional ovation, beyond routine applause, with many rising to their feet in support.
Donning simple black attire with a subtle sparkle and a gold necklace, Naumov’s gala performance prioritized emotional resonance over technical athleticism.
Music Choice Reflects Grief
His musical selection, Mac Miller’s posthumous 2020 track “That’s on Me,” was deliberate. Miller tragically died from an accidental overdose in 2018.
“Recently, I’ve been repeatedly listening to Mac Miller’s album ‘Circles’,” Naumov explained. “Knowing his story as an artist, it resonates deeply.
“I identify with his expressions and connect emotionally to the themes in his music. It has become a means to process my own emotions.”
Gratitude Amidst Sorrow
After his skate, Naumov paused, touched his heart again, and waved to the audience. His bows were profound and heartfelt. Departing the ice to a sustained standing ovation, he made the sign of the cross.
“There are a multitude of emotions present; articulating them is challenging,” he conveyed. “The overwhelming support is palpable.”
“I am immensely grateful,” Naumov concluded. “And thankful to each and every fan.”