The Outlook Podcast Archive - The backflip that shocked the Olympics

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Surya Bonaly is one of the best known figure skaters in history. In her prime, her technical skill was unmatched. But despite her great talent, an Olympic gold medal always eluded her. At the 1998 Winter Olympics in Japan, Surya sustained an injury meaning she couldn’t complete her rehearsed routine. Instead she decided to perform a backflip, landing on one blade. It was a controversial move as the backflip was banned in figure skating because it is typically landed on two feet, which figure skating moves shouldn't be. It's also high risk. If it goes wrong it could result in life-changing injuries. The backflip she pulled off in 1998 became so famous she says it is now known as 'the Bonaly'.

Image: Surya Bonaly at the 1995 World Championships
Credit: Jean-Yves Ruszniewski/TempSport/Corbis/VCG/Getty Images

Published on Tuesday, 16th April 2019.

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