1988 Calgary Olympics

These were the first Olympics I ever watched!  I have a few vague memories of that time (since I was just 9).  I went to YouTube recently to look back at some programs. 

Brian Orser’s Short Program (SP)

A VERY well choreographed/fast/fun program revealing Orser’s personality, as well as skill.  He was ahead of Boitano after the SP w/ this program.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8lQGAxH4VY&feature=related

Brian Boitano’s SP

Who knew a SP could ALSO be this artistic!? 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=me0RvshG1pY

Boitano’s Long Program (LP)

This was the gold medal-winning performance choreographed by Sandra Bezic (now a NBC commentator).  As you will see, it was ALMOST flawless.  Boitano was the total package, and then some IMHO.  He created the ‘Tano lutz: a triple lutz with the left hand poised above the head.  Besides his jumps (he’s the first American to land the triple axel) and spins, Boitano had a GORGEOUS spread eagle (another one of his signature moves) and TRULY felt the music.  

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cEYNskBniw0&feature=related

Orser’s LP

It was “too close,” as Orser says after he gets silver.  He was the first man to do 2 triple axels at a major competition (1987 Worlds).  Before the Brians in ’88, it wasn’t common to see 2 triple axels in one program.  They BOTH set new standards for excellence, technically and artistically.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZ4BLCff93M&feature=related

Viktor Petrenko’s LP

An 18 y.o. Ukranian (skating for the then USSR) burst onto the world stage w/ his elegant/mature program.  Look at the height on his jumps, his beautiful lay-back spin, and posture!  GREAT things were up ahead for Petrenko… 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKj0E4U4zrY&feature=related

An interview looking back at the “Battle of the Brians”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=383RoLN-j9E&feature=related