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Scott Hamilton Revered by fans and fellow figure skaters alike, Scott Scovell Hamilton is often referred to as the �Skate God�. Artistic and fun-loving, the 1984 Olympic Champion and co-creator of Stars On Ice, dazzles crowds wherever he performs. Respected for his skating professionalism and contributions to the community, he is also admired for this ability to overcome personal tragedies.Raised in Bowling Green, Ohio, Hamilton was stricken with a rare disorder that prevented his body from absorbing critical nutrients. At the age of five, he stopped growing and spent several years undergoing unpleasant and intense medical treatments. When Hamilton turned nine, he watched his sister skate and decided he would like to try it. Pursuing skating seriously, the symptoms of the disorder began to disappear and his body began to grow again. Hamilton did not become a skating superstar overnight. Many thought him too small and slight for the sport and after his mother�s death in 1978, he thought about giving it up. He persevered, however, and worked with legendary coach Carlo Fassi, winning a Bronze medal at the U.S. National Championships. In 1980, Fassi switched training locations and Hamilton went onto work with coach Don Laws who upgraded his level of performance. Over the following four years Hamilton won every U.S. National and World Championships and ultimately the Gold medal at the 1984 Olympics. After turning professional, Hamilton remained a role model to figure skating and with his great knowledge of the sport became a television commentator.. He performed in exhibitions and tours, but finding the opportunities lacking, became the co-creator of a tour that would eventually become the successfully popular show Stars On Ice, which has provided Olympic and World Champions a creative venue after turning professional. In the spring 1997, Hamilton was diagnosed with testicular cancer that had spread into his abdomen. There was a great outpouring of support from fans and fellow skaters, encouraging him with well wishes. He underwent chemotherapy and surgery that summer which was touted as a success. Hamilton was declared cancer free. He rejoined the cast of Stars On Ice that fall for rehearsals. In 1998, he commentated at the Winter Olympics figure skating competitions and welcomed Olympic champions Tara Lipinski and Ilia Kulik into the Stars On Ice family. Scott is a big supporter of many charitable organizations. Teaming with fellow skater Ekaterina Gordeeva and stars Amy Grant and Tiger Woods, he played a big part in the development of Target House in Memphis, Tennessee. A very generous soul, he has put so much back into the community. Sadly, Scott said good bye to Stars On Ice. His last performance was at the end of the 2000/2001 tour in Portland, Maine. Teary eyes watched as his friends and fellow performers rallied around him to wish him well and let him know how much he would be missed. This isn't the end of Scott Hamilton by a long shot. He hasn't left the ice for good. Keep checking the show and TV schedule for updates. Quick Facts...Date of Birth: 8/28/1958 Place of Birth: Bowling Green, Ohio Parents:Dorothy Hamilton (Died of Cancer 1977) & Ernie Hamilton (Died in 1994) Siblings:One Sister-Sue, One Brother-Steve Signficant Other: Karen Plage (Actor/Singer) Photo � Leah Adams |
