Facts About Kristi Yamaguchi

Kristi Yamaguchi has been of interest to many people, young and old alike, for almost two decades. Whether you saw her in the Olympics, have seen one of her endorsements, or have heard about her on the news, the fact is that she is an interesting person to follow. Here are some things about her that are fascinating. Some of them you may already be familiar with; other facts may be news to you.

  1. Professional History

    • Kristi Yamaguchi was born in 1971. Kristi was born with a condition that would make physical therapy necessary, clubfeet. Her doctor recommended ice skating to help correct the problem. What began as a physical therapy exercise for clubfeet became a passion that would end up making Kristi Yamaguchi a household name.

      In 1991, Kristi won the World Figure Skating Championships. In 1992, Kristi won both the United States Figure Skating Championships and The Women's Singles Olympic Championship. From 1992 to 2002, Kristi skated with Stars on Ice.

    Personal History

    • Kristi and husband Bret Hedican met during the 1992 Olympic Games. In 1995, they began dating, leading up to a 2000 wedding. Kristi and Bret are now the parents of two beautiful daughters, who keep their mom and dad very busy. The career of being an ice skater extraordinaire was something that Kristi is happy to have experienced, but being a mom is even better. Kristi and Bret make their home with their children in North Carolina.

    Accomplishments

    • Kristi is the author of the books: "Always Dream, Pure Gold" and "Figure Skating for Dummies." She has appeared in many films and TV programs over the years, including the movie "Go Figure." In 1996, Kristi established a handicap accessible playground in San Francisco called "The Dream Foundation." Kristi was the second woman to ever win on the popular TV competition "Dancing With The Stars."

    Awards

    • Kristi has won numerous awards over the years, including The Munson Award, The JC Penney Excellence Award, and more than a dozen other awards. She was also the first woman to be an Honorary Starter for the Indianapolis 500 race. Another honor that Kristi has achieved is being inducted into the United States Olympic Hall of Fame in 2006. Kristi's accomplishments are many, but one of the things that she may be the most proud of is starting a foundation called "The Always Dream Foundation."

    Representative

    • Kristi has been the spokesperson for some outstanding companies since 1992. Among those she has represented are Celanese Acetate, Smart Ones and Kellogg's. Kristi and Bret have appeared in some endorsements together, too, such as for General Electric, and they have done some public service announcements for the area they live in.