History Daily The Attack on Nancy Kerrigan
Jan 6, 2025
In a shocking turn of events, Nancy Kerrigan is attacked just weeks before the Winter Olympics, highlighting the fierce rivalry with Tonya Harding. The pressure mounts as Tonya embarks on her journey to master the triple axel, battling personal demons and her tumultuous marriage. As competitive tensions rise, desperate measures emerge in the skating world, leading to a dramatic incident at the U.S. Championships. This narrative unfolds with emotional turmoil and the lengths some will go to for victory, making it a gripping tale of ambition and rivalry.
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Tonya Harding's Triple Axel
- Tonya Harding landed the first triple axel by an American woman in competition, becoming the 1991 US Champion.
- Despite a difficult upbringing and abusive relationships, skating was her escape and passion.
Kerrigan and Harding's Rivalry
- Despite Tonya Harding's success, Nancy Kerrigan consistently placed as her rival.
- This rivalry intensified in the following years, leading up to the 1994 Winter Olympics.
The Plan to Injure Kerrigan
- After Tonya Harding's poor performance in a competition, her ex-husband, Jeff Gillooly, plotted to injure Nancy Kerrigan.
- He contacted his friend, Sean Eckardt, to find someone who could disable Kerrigan.