Hamilton Hangs Up Tour Skates
| Source: |
Dayton Daily News |
| Date: |
December 15, 2000 |
| Author: |
Associated Press |
Copyright 2000 Dayton Newspapers, Inc.
NEW YORK - Scott Hamilton doesn't look at it as retirement. He's
merely shifting gears.
Skating's master showman knows the show must go on. As he prepares
for life without his very own creation, the Stars on Ice tour, Hamilton
is comfortable in knowing there are other stars available to take his
place. ''It will be cool, great to see the show without me,'' Hamilton
said Thursday as he contemplated a future away from the tour he began 15
years ago with appearances in a handful of small towns. He built it into
a six-month international series, but will leave the show in April.
''I can step aside and allow these really ambitious, young, talented
people the opportunity to shine in their own spotlight without making
room for me,'' he said. ''This has been a phenomenal success, but to
grow, it has to do so without me. The show will not be diminished with
my absence. It will take on a new identity.''
Hamilton's identity was established at the 1980 Olympics, when the
young skater who overcame a paralyzed intestine as a child carried the
U.S. flag into the opening ceremony.
A year later, he was the national and world champion. Hamilton won
each of those titles four times, and took gold at the 1984 Olympics.
He then turned professional and, despite some early setbacks, built
one of the strongest followings of any skater. He wasn't merely an
athlete, but an entertainer, a comic on ice, and even a friend to those
in the stands. Hamilton touched audiences in ways few figure skaters
ever have.
''I feel like I was honored to be able to tour with him,'' said 1998
Olympic champion Tara Lipinski. ''I think every skater who has ever been
in contact with Scott has learned from him.'' Hamilton, 42, certainly
hopes that is true.
''I try not to get involved with what impact I've had,'' he said,
''but how I have been touched. All the great skaters I've had the
privilege to skate with and know . . . I don't worry about what my
significance has been, but I am proud of what I have accomplished so
far.''
Hamilton envisions putting together a theatrical production,
although he isn't close to settling on a format. He also wants to remain
involved in television work - he's been CBS' main skating announcer for
14 years.
| 
