Richard Ewell - African American Figure Skating Champion

Richard Ewell surprised the skating community in 1970. He was not expected to win or even medal at the U.S. National Figure Skating Championships that year, but instead, dazzled the audience when he landed three double axels, a triple salchow, and a triple toe loop. He won the national Junior Men's title after that performance. Then, in 1972, he won the U.S. National Junior Pair title with his partner, Michelle McCladdie, another African American.

Richard Ewell was much better at freestyle than figures. Since figures are no longer a part of figure skating competitions, if he competed today, he may have possibly become an Olympic or World Champion.

Further Reading

• Richard Ewell - African American Figure Skating Champion
• Why is Figure Skating called Figure Skating?
• Definition of "Freestyle"

_{Ricahrd Ewell 1972 - Photo Copyright © Richard Ewell}