Brian Boitano

Brian Boitano is a three-time Olympian and Olympic gold medalist in figure skating. Born in Mountain View, California, Boitano first broke out on the international scene when he won the bronze medal at the 1978 World Junior Figure Skating Championships. Four years later, he became the first American to land a triple axel. Known for pushing the technical envelope of men’s skating, Boitano developed a signature jump, the “Tano Triple,” that no other competitor could perform against him. After placing fifth at the Olympic Games Sarajevo 1984, Boitano won the U.S. championship from 1985-88, complemented by his world championships in 1986 and 1988. Entering the Olympic Winter Games Calgary 1988, Boitano was one of two favorites to win gold. After a nearly flawless free skate, Boitano won the gold medal in a 5-4 split against longtime rival Brian Orser, wearing skates with American flag appliques that now reside at the National Museum of American History at the Smithsonian. Boitano turned professional following the Games, winning 10 straight competitions, including five world professional championship titles. He has since had his own cooking television show and appeared in multiple other television shows and films.