Dick Button

Profession: Figure Skater

Nationality:

Biography: Dick Button was an American figure skater and broadcaster best known for being the first skater to land a double Axel and triple loop in competition. He is also credited with inventing the flying camel spin and for his extensive broadcasting career, which included covering several Olympic Games.

After starting serious training at age 12, Button advanced rapidly, winning novice and junior titles swiftly. By age 18, he became the youngest man to win Olympic gold in 1948, setting a record that remains as of 2022.

His innovation on the ice was further exemplified by landing the first double Axel at the 1948 Olympics and the first triple loop at the 1952 Winter Olympics.

Concurrently with his skating, Button attended Harvard College, graduating in 1952. He balanced the demands of training with his studies, having to constantly create new and challenging maneuvers. After ceasing amateur competition, Button pursued a law degree at Harvard Law School while performing in ice shows during breaks.

After retiring from competitive skating, Button established Candid Productions and began broadcasting with CBS in 1960, moving to ABC Sports, where he made his mark as a figure skating analyst. He won an Emmy for his broadcasting work in 1981.

Button experienced personal challenges, including two serious head injuries, which led him to become an active advocate for brain injury awareness. Button's marriage to Slavka Kohout ended in divorce.

Born: July 18, 1929
Birthplace: Englewood, New Jersey, USA
Age: 94 years old

Generation: Silent Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Snake
Star Sign: Cancer