Howard University made headlines as the first HBCU to establish a figure skating team. After months of working through the logistics of recruiting and finding a rink to practice, the group of figure skaters’ determination paid off, and they started competing in ice skating tournaments.

In previous years, Black women have dominated the athletic sport nationally and globally. Black women continue to create space and develop opportunities for current and future generations to participate in the activity. Here are four phenomenal figure skaters who have broken records and inspired others to follow their lead.

Starr Andrews

At 21 years old, Starr Andrews made history in 2023 as the first Black woman to win a medal in the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in 35 years. Her stellar achievement broke barriers, inspiring younger generations who desire to follow in her footsteps. Despite the lack of diversity in ice skating remaining prevalent, Andrew continues to push for more representation as a figure skater.

Dr. Debi Thomas

Before transitioning into the medical field, Debi Thomas was a professional figure skater who achieved high feats. She became the only Black woman to win a medal in the Winter Olympics in 1988. She also won the 1986 U.S. National and World Figure Skating titles, becoming the first and only Black woman to do so. Her historical achievements were recognized in 2000, with her induction into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame.

Surya Bonaly

French figure skater Surya Bonaly’s flips on ice made her an eye-catching performer. Bonaly is the first woman to ever attempt a quadruple jump at the 1992 Olympics in France. Her distinct creativity set the stage for future figure skaters. Thirty years passed before another woman completed a quadruple jump at the Olympics. In her career, Bonaly became a five-time European champion and three-time silver medalist at the World Championships.

Mabel Fairbanks 

Mabel Fairbanks rose to fame in the 1930s and 1940s for her unique ice skating techniques and determined attitude to perform on the rink. She was met with constant racism and discriminatory acts; however, she did not let that deter her from pursuing her figure skating passions. Fairbanks continued to open doors for other Black ice skaters after becoming a teacher and coach.