Unfortunately, this has happened to a number of superior young athletes labeled "crashers." Surya Bonaly, Venus/Serena Williams, Simone Biles, etc. Bravo to each and every one of them for making lasting impacts in sports. They are to be applauded.
Lol you are so wrong! The time where not the same. As a french speaking black girl who lived in France during those time,beleive me.... Thats not the same at all... I have followed those three athlete and you did'nt "get it" at all. Surya bonaly WAS the Simone Biles of her time but without the medals, the fame, the money ect... Sport in france and sport in USA are not the same the salary is not the same, the fame and marketing benefit are not the same. Even when she did moves that NO ONE can make (like simone) the judge will always found someting to says about her... and most of the time it they will says she was not enough gracefull, to menly beacouse she had a lot of muscle compare to other skaters.... And mosly because she was BLACK lets says the truth... After being one of the biggest ice queen Surya was broke, skaters dont make as much as tnnicamn or footbaler.... So she did many, many show with disney on ice (with Candolero who was the only man to do backflip but with two leg!) after that and thanks to her show on disney on ice she met the good people and moved to USA where her talent was "more reconized". She was abble to be a skate teacher and to make more money than she did while skating for france.. But even worst.... In France we had only few black queen who put stars into our eyes... Like Marie Jo Perec or Pepita,who was in several TV show and TV game... BUT the racism was so clear and so painfull to watch that i use to ask my mom, why the TV was so mean to black people.. and my mom use to tell me dont worry we are not as dark as they are (we are " light skin as they say"), that wont happen to us.... When i think about it today i see how awfull this was, but my mom like many african had learn the "race and gender" scale, and she knew that we were at the bottom but not totally at the bottom and like all human crashing people under you was ok especialy at those time (1988/2000?) Last human ZOO in France (Bamboula) closed in 1994... And i know you had Los angeles i remember the image on tv news... Those time where awfull for blakc even with talent... But what SHOCK me was to ear those queen denied the racism they lived and that I did saw in live camera... For Pepita that was just joke between friend (and all french speaking country with TV) and Sorya said she never felt disminated.. She DID'NT feel the racims ect.. and she dont think all than happens was because of her skin color, when it did TRAUMITISE me... When those story came out few years ago it broke my heart and i was SHOCKED by both testimony... minimising what they lived and why... And when people like me try to explain how it was for us they get mad defensive like if they denied that will make it disapear.... You see this is europpen way to educate Africain by making them feel so less and making it so normal that you forget who you are and dont see the reality of your situation... SO SAD... I really hope a therapy may helps them one day... She also has a lot to deal with her white adoptive mom.. a lot of secret, a lot of abuse (to practice not talking pedofile here!!) , she tried to pollish, to make her "more white than white" and when i saw how she reacted with all the injusctice that she still denied, i was like ok her mom did succes to polish her on to make a "good black" in occidental eyes and who do and think and do everything her "mom" want. Hope she might found peace someday!
@@SamMartinPeakPerformance I am one of them. I knew about all of her competitors during that time period but thanks to youtube and videos like your's, I am just learning about her.
@@noi2888 please check out Suray Bonaly 1994 Lillehammer Olympic exhibition, it's the absolute greatest performances of all time, flawless, be sure to read the comments, everyone agrees she was the best ever
@@SamMartinPeakPerformance Amen to the world about to END AND they are doing this lock down and forcing us into dictatorship. Who is concerned about the food shortages and NEW WORLD ORDER?? FEMA CAMP and the out of control government?? We need to be praying. God bless and keep us all.
@@TriciaRP conspiracy much, let me guess, you heard this from your pastor, who's job is to keep you frightened, and the collection plate full. Living in fear, is living in darkness, there is light in the world 🌎 if you chose to let it shine in your life.
@@glennd5574 dude, what the hell are you talking about. You obviously lack the comprehension to formulate an opinion on what I wrote. Your paranoid of government, politics and media is showing. Here's a clue you've probably missed, the chaos that is consuming the world, isn't nothing new, we just have more ways to ensure people are frightened. This format we're both are using is a double edged sword. On one hand, we hoped it would give a voice to those who didn't have a platform, to voice their concern. On the other hand, social media is a propaganda tool useful by both sides of the political spectrum, and it's only going to get worse as A.I. becomes more acceptable. I'm like George Carlin, I don't have a horse in the race, because I've known for a long time, this country has never lived up to its potential, and why should it start now. How many marches, riots, murderers by cops and gangs and politicians does it take for people to understand, America is a modern Rome. And just like Rome, it's demise came from within. The only difference is, we can watch the demise from the comfort of our overpriced homes. We're the only Empire that ever existed, that has 25 hour news coverage of our demise. Fox, CNN,ABC,NBC,MSNBC etc. are more than willing to get you worked up on silly shit, while the real people who OWN you, steal your money and future, while you fight over Vaccines, and who's the greatest basketball player, JORDAN OR LEBRON. So my friend, lighten up with your needless criticism.
I’m very much at a loss to Surya’s story. It must have been very hard for her because your mind would have had to be constantly fortified to deal with that level of racism and ridicule. I’m sure if it had been me I could not make it. ( I’m too much of a crybaby for that to have worked out for me.)😭 Surya your amazing and loved to this day. The level of mental abuse Black woman and girls face never fails to astonish me. Stay healthy ladies.💕
She cried many times and kept working on her craft only to come up short every time with the judges system. Not one endorsement in sight or sponsors! Her costumes reminded me of royalty I can only imagine what world she went to inside her mind when performing at that level going through all that bullshit from the whites!🙄
@@SamMartinPeakPerformance yes. Her back flip to one foot to make it agree as a skating jump. My friend was a skater and I was a gymnast and we made sure to watch it all. Surya bridged the gap.
@Eilliw Nodrog not critized. It's too dangerous for all the skater to be in the rules. This is gymnastic. Not figure skating. She penalized herself. But I am french and I remember how people were supporting her.
@@fabs8498 Is a legal jump if it can be landed on one foot and place in a combination. Which she did: a back flip landed on one foot up into a triple Salchow jump. *A back flip landed on one foot into a triple Salchow Jump no, else have done that!*
She's one of our national treasures without a doubt, and brought a lot of exposure to a sport that wans't very popular before her. A badass angel on the ice !
Thank you sir for this gutsy truth! I've always admired Miss Bonaly and I remember and watched/shared the painful feeling of such awful treatment. She's so deserving of being remembered as a tremendous force of inspiration and determination. My shero.
Always loved her & thought she got a bad wrap during her competitive career. Her illegal back flip in Nagano in 1998 was the PERFECT badass exit! BRAVO!!
Natasha Brown, point of correction!!!! “She is the first AND ONLY COMPETITIVE SKATER to do the back flip and land on one foot” Thank you. Surya’s case was one of deep-seated hatred, jealousy, disrespect, and, clear, brazen, RACISM!!! Trust me, if she were of another skin color and doing the very same things Surya did, they’d be hailing her as “Revolutionary, a breath of fresh air, magical, exquisite, graceful, breathtaking, genius, inventive, a technical marvel, etc etc” Her pictures would be circling the globe, the media would be fighting and falling over themselves to get to her doorBut, alas, we all know too well, though we pretend not to, the despicable and disgraceful reasons why that was not to be. Surya has always been the greatest champion there was and Surya will forever be the greatest champion! Thank you so much for telling the truth in this video.
Yeah. Because if you just win by a little, they say either you didn't win or that you cheated. Or they cheat and call it fair. They can't take the idea of you just being a peer that edged out competition. You have to be so extraordinary that at least some feel OK with losing to you. I once saw a boxing match between a white Brit and an African American. They fought in Britain. The black guy was out-boxing the Brit, but not amazingly. So the Brit performed a totally illegal hip throw. The ref acted like the guy had slipped, and didn't do anything to the Brit. And the crowd cheered.
It’s crazy how the judges criticized Surya for being “too athletic.” Fast-forward to 2022, the judges CELEBRATE the ATHLETIC SKATERS and penalize the ones who aren’t. Surya Bonaly was a TRENDSETTER! (and so was Madori Ito--she was also criticized for being "too athletic.”) ❤️❤️
Yes, look at what they did to Simone Biles!!! They told her that she was not to perform the "Biles" technique and expect credit for its indisputable style and greatness over other gymnasts because it was not "fair" to the other gymnasts who simply could not do what she could do in this feat! Smdh...
If they could not do it that's too bad. Sick and tired of jealousy and envy among our black greats!!!!!! And they are just that given the opportunity. A gift from God. I am so proud of them whatever field they choose in life. As long as the white lie can be spread, it's okay.
@@harigovind6316 Her parents travelled to India previously and were going to adopt a child from India. But then an orphanage in France contacted her parents and they adopted her. They named her Surya as a tribute to their love for India :)
The best ice skater that I’ve ever seen. Thank you Surya for being brave and bold enough to share your gift with the world. Your name and accomplishments will be known throughout my family. You’re simply the best at what you do! 💐
Thank you Sam for such a great account of history of this amazing skater. I am in awe of someone who chooses to persevere and push beyond boundaries while facing such toxicity in the air. The closest I can relate is when I worked in a company where I was the only Black person out of about 100 employees who were White. I had to goto work everyday, do the best job I could while overhearing negative comments and jokes about me, talking down to me or like I was a pet and nitpicking. I even had to endure being at fault for Nicole Simpson's death because OJ was found innocent. Yet, I was the one they turned to train new people. I was good enough to train but not good enough for the higher level position and money that should come with it. Yet, you push through. I left that company and didn't realize how much I was suffering from PTSD which was compounded by other experiences until I left the US. When Surya wouldn't stand on the podium, I could feel her anguish and anger. So I stand here and applaud Surya for exhibiting such grace (at least on camera :) ), perseverance, dedication to the art and being an example of achieving in spite of the obstacles. I appreciate the lessons her experiences teaches. Funny how I am just learning about her now yet I don't follow ice skating but I definitely knew about her competitors during that time period.
Thank you so much for sharing your experiences Maggie. I can only imagine what you have had to go through and am inspired by your attitude of perseverance 👏👏
Maggie D, thank you so much for your touching and emotional piece on courage and encouragement in the face of despair, heartbreak, racism, unfairness and injustice!!! Yes, I wholeheartedly agree with you that wherever Surya is, I pray she knows that we know and never forgets that the UNIVERSE knows she’s the best, the greatest and the GOAT!!! Even, in the face of such hatred and jealousy, they can NEVER, EVER , NEVER take her greatness and grace from her!!
Thank you for telling the story.n I know her pain being black in America and wanting to be a ballerina during era segregation. In the South. So much is lost to this world because of such narrow views of skill and beauty. Surface achieved greatness beyond another man’s rules of separation. Go Surya!
Sad but true. However, you could make the argument it’s not specifically racism, but colorism as well. Yes, Black women probably have it the hardest in a competition sport that can shallowly make or break someone’s victory based on how well they do or don’t fit the Barbie-like mold that society can’t seem to get over. But for Black women, their complexion can sadly make that favor even harder to attain. I say this because as a Black woman, I have seen and experienced various treatments-good and bad- based on my complexion. Specifically, darker-skinned Blacks, like myself, can be deemed less favorably than a Black person who’s complexion is more similar to Zoe Saldana, Halle Berry or Zendaya. Even if there are some judges of color in the stands, that kind of bias sadly does still exist 😢😡
@@oHmega14 So then figure skating is not really a sport but an art form like ballet or modern dance. Beauty in art is mostly in the eye of the beholder. Someone like Surya Bonaly can be the best figure skater in the world but still lose because the judges are the gatekeepers of that intangible thing called aesthetics IMO.
@@abrahkadabra9501 NOP sorry Skating like Gymanstic or many sport has a socre board depending on Difficulties and excution. The diffulties point are set (so the gymnast can calculate how many point they need tho reach a certain goal) and the ARTISTIQUE are based on judge eyes... And never gave her what she deserves on BOTH side... So yeah real RACISM and REAL DISCRIMINATION.for expamle a triple axel with a double worth so much point and if you succed it you should automaticly get those point mines the deduction if you did some mistake (on landing, hand position, rotation ect.... But for Surya even with perfection, they will always found something and gave her less point and she will practice harder and come back with crazier move but the judge wont let her win... NEVER!!! And if you compare the Skater who run against her you feel like its a bad bad joke because the level are just not the same... Like with Simone Biles!
she didn't do a performance good enough for a gold... I've watched the competition for many years, and she simply did not have enough points in her performance to win it on many occasions. she is still an amazing skater of course. to get 2nd in the olympics it's the best of the best really.
Thank you for this video, for shedding such a bright light of this most gifted girl, young lady, woman and athlete!! #SuryaBonaly, "She is a 10!!" ⛸ ⛸ ❤🦋🦋🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽
@@SamMartinPeakPerformance And I knew nothing of her, so this video was a blessing. I also watched another one afterwards about her being a ice- teacher, in love and I think owning her own rink... or at least it is that she loves the one she is teaching in. Thanks again Sam!!
She was simply heads & shoulders better than the rest of the skaters. I never even heard of ANY skater even attempting any flips, much less back flips, and she did them on a regular basis... Beyond amazing and awe-inspiring...
I always loved seeing her skate. In the Olympics we knew she would not medal because she would not bow to the judges or anyone else. If the backflip was not allowed because they had to land it on one foot she should have been able to get it counted. No one else to this day has landed it on one foot. She was a world champion gymnast and proved she COULD land that jump on one foot. I saw it every time I ever watched her in competition, exhibition, and later ice shows.
I remember watching her back then. She was phenomenal and I couldn't believe my ears when the commentators spoke so badly about her while she did those hard routines. I was so proud of her. I knew she would resurface.
So surprising that this talented, awesome skater would be in this programme as she was a winner, everyone could see that, but the powers that be could not unfortunately. What a shame.
@@kazkazzie3906 yeah the title is a bit of a sham! But it's still a great show detailing the heroic/inspiring stories of sometimes forgotten athletes :)
Surya was so breathtaking to watch, while performing. Her attire was unique and the colors were just stunning! Oh, how I forget the makeup! Everything about her...Perfection! That smile, confidence........
I was 10 years old when Surya Bonaly landed that back flip at the Olympics. It was one of the coolest and most unique things I ever saw. She was so much fun to watch. That Olympics, in general, were controversial due to Tara Lipinsky beating Michelle Kwan. Surya Bonaly was a revolutionary figure skater.
Clearly she had the skills. It was the color of her skin. She did not fit their standards of beauty. Thank you for doing a story on this remarkable woman.
Thank you for doing the research and presenting this. I feel so proud of her and her bravery to do what she was passionate about even though others disapproved. She honestly should have gotten more recognition.
Its sad that they didn't appreciate her skills. Why was it so bad that her costumes were more colorful than her competitors? I thought her skin color and the color of her outfits looked fantastic.
Shine Surya Bonaly!!!💕 Shine! Shine! Shine! 🥰 Like The Beautiful Star and Champion You Are!!! 💕You Are A Rare Gem Fit For A Crown!!! 💕So Rare That The Judges Tried To Hide It And Put You Down!!! 🤔But No Matter What They Did They Couldn’t Help But See Your Talent, Your Grace , Your Extraordinaire Beauty And Personality!!! 💕You Remained A Queen Professional And Poised To The End!!! 💕You Will Forever Remain In History The Best Spectacular Figure Skater That Has Ever Been!!! 💕Thank You For Caring And Thank You For Sharing When It Comes To Surya Bonaly, There Is No Comparing!!! . . . I Do Like And Love This Commentary!!! . . . Will Definitely Share!!!😎💕🙏🏾Blessings
I am American in the Midwest and I still have chills and goose bumps watching this just like it was 1993. My brother and I were grown and didn't live together but wen she was gonna skate we waited patiently. We would both be on the phone going crazy when she flipped. We were so angry she wasn't acknowledged as the best tht ever skated. We understood why she seemed angry wen she got low scores. I was and am so proud of the beautiful black woman. We(black) people kill every sport. I love what she did
She knew her worth, knew she was one of the greats and you can tell with the way she pushed boundaries even when shunned. I don’t know much about the figure skating world but I definitely know of her and that’s legacy.
So incredibly sad how humans fear powerful change makers and anything even remotely different to status quo.... what an absolute force of nature she is! A true trailblazer and a true ARTIST! In every way! F*ck conventions! She is an absolute inspirations for generations to come if only her story continues to be told and shared! I don't really watch figure skating, but I would watch all of hers! What a LEGEND! Thank you for making this video and sharing her story!
Top Notch Symposium Sir! Top Notch... Thank YOU for. Such an honest analysis of her accomplishments.. It was the most informative reveal of just how "BAD ASS" she is and her rightful place in World History. I actually gave way to tears at the end because the lesson in life is as SHE clearly demonstrated live life on your terms and NEVER EVER allow the average, to place YOU on their level nor in their basic 📦.... She is a TRUE Superhero!!!
Duty’s was already gold from the beginning, we put to much emphasis on mans views especially the ones who are in control of these games. A way to limit our people and we have the talent to pursue the unlimited because we have a limitless God. What is your passion let it shine through, don’t try to fit in and let people limit you because they will never award you just continue to suppress you. Take a stand, be you and break the limits off. Thanks Surya for finally being you and showing them that you did not need their gold, but you were already worth much more than their gold. I love when you did those flips. Amazing.
I remember as a teen watching Surya in the olympics. Such injustice and systemic racism! They always favoured Oksana... Omgosh - she even cut her long thick braided hair??? 🙆♀️🙆♀️🙆♀️🙆♀️ Surya, if you are reading this "Good for you that you stood up for what you believed in..yourself.....we remember you most for BRAVERY!" Thank you Sam, for reminding us of the truth. The truth lives on🙏
SOUL POWERFUL!!! . . . Truth Be Told!!! 💕Truth Can Be Lied On But Truth Can Never Change! 🤔People May Try To Hide The Truth But The Fact Still Remains . . . That No Matter What You Say And No Matter What You Do . . .Truth Will Always Come Shining Through!!! 💕 Thanks For Sharing This Truth And Remarkable Moment In History!!! 😎💕🙏🏾Blessings . . . This Truly Inspires Me To Continue To Stand And Fight For Truth, Justice And Equality!!!😎💕👊🏾
none of the other skaters could nor would ever be able to do surya. instead of if you cant beat them join them, it was a case of there is no way in hell you can ever beat her, so deny her. dam shame. surya you rock, no 1 forever.
I remember she and her mom. I felt bad for the way they were treated. When athletes like Surya Bonaly does routines and features certain moves that “they” can’t perform yet, they reject those moves. But when their preferred athletes achieves similar feats, they say she’s so innovative and athletic. Individual sports like Skating, Gymnastics, and Tennis, already requires mental toughness, because you can’t lean on teammates, then add the racial component, it can break you down. Remember Jackie Robinson (Rip), Simone Biles, Serena Williams, etc. Then your own Country trashes you.
Thank you for the video. I have to say, this is the first time I've heard of Ms. Bonaly. What a shame the sport hated for what and who God made her to be. Thx u again
When i was a kid i got hurt on ski slopes in Pralognan. My consolation prize for not being able to ski the rest of the vacay week was to go see her skate. I will never forget her amazing performance. She rocks.
Someone needs to make a movie about this girl...
They really do!
Now i would love to see to a movie about this very talented skater.
Why is taking them so long? Are filmmakers afraid of success? xdd
This woman
There is a Netflix documentary episode dedicated to her
Here's the thing, though..., she was and still is the very quintessence of beauty, grace and above all..., elegance.
Very beautiful 😍
Unfortunately, this has happened to a number of superior young athletes labeled "crashers." Surya Bonaly, Venus/Serena Williams, Simone Biles, etc. Bravo to each and every one of them for making lasting impacts in sports. They are to be applauded.
Dominique Dawes
@@warriornanny5780 Yes we cannot forget about her too.
Lewis Hamilton. They all get the short end of the stick.
Do you think it's a coincidence that they're all black women?
Lol you are so wrong! The time where not the same. As a french speaking black girl who lived in France during those time,beleive me.... Thats not the same at all... I have followed those three athlete and you did'nt "get it" at all. Surya bonaly WAS the Simone Biles of her time but without the medals, the fame, the money ect... Sport in france and sport in USA are not the same the salary is not the same, the fame and marketing benefit are not the same. Even when she did moves that NO ONE can make (like simone) the judge will always found someting to says about her... and most of the time it they will says she was not enough gracefull, to menly beacouse she had a lot of muscle compare to other skaters.... And mosly because she was BLACK lets says the truth... After being one of the biggest ice queen Surya was broke, skaters dont make as much as tnnicamn or footbaler.... So she did many, many show with disney on ice (with Candolero who was the only man to do backflip but with two leg!) after that and thanks to her show on disney on ice she met the good people and moved to USA where her talent was "more reconized". She was abble to be a skate teacher and to make more money than she did while skating for france.. But even worst.... In France we had only few black queen who put stars into our eyes... Like Marie Jo Perec or Pepita,who was in several TV show and TV game... BUT the racism was so clear and so painfull to watch that i use to ask my mom, why the TV was so mean to black people.. and my mom use to tell me dont worry we are not as dark as they are (we are " light skin as they say"), that wont happen to us.... When i think about it today i see how awfull this was, but my mom like many african had learn the "race and gender" scale, and she knew that we were at the bottom but not totally at the bottom and like all human crashing people under you was ok especialy at those time (1988/2000?) Last human ZOO in France (Bamboula) closed in 1994... And i know you had Los angeles i remember the image on tv news... Those time where awfull for blakc even with talent... But what SHOCK me was to ear those queen denied the racism they lived and that I did saw in live camera... For Pepita that was just joke between friend (and all french speaking country with TV) and Sorya said she never felt disminated.. She DID'NT feel the racims ect.. and she dont think all than happens was because of her skin color, when it did TRAUMITISE me... When those story came out few years ago it broke my heart and i was SHOCKED by both testimony... minimising what they lived and why... And when people like me try to explain how it was for us they get mad defensive like if they denied that will make it disapear.... You see this is europpen way to educate Africain by making them feel so less and making it so normal that you forget who you are and dont see the reality of your situation... SO SAD... I really hope a therapy may helps them one day... She also has a lot to deal with her white adoptive mom.. a lot of secret, a lot of abuse (to practice not talking pedofile here!!) , she tried to pollish, to make her "more white than white" and when i saw how she reacted with all the injusctice that she still denied, i was like ok her mom did succes to polish her on to make a "good black" in occidental eyes and who do and think and do everything her "mom" want. Hope she might found peace someday!
I'm glad she's being brought back up and not forgetting, she was the absolute best
Absolutely! She's such an iconic figure and it's crazy how few people know about her
@@SamMartinPeakPerformance I am one of them. I knew about all of her competitors during that time period but thanks to youtube and videos like your's, I am just learning about her.
Was? Is the absolute best!
@@noi2888 sorry, I don't know what I was thinking
@@noi2888 please check out Suray Bonaly 1994 Lillehammer Olympic exhibition, it's the absolute greatest performances of all time, flawless, be sure to read the comments, everyone agrees she was the best ever
Surya Bonaly is the BEST skater of all times period!
Amen to that!
@@SamMartinPeakPerformance Amen to the world about to END AND they are doing this lock down and forcing us into dictatorship. Who is concerned about the food shortages and NEW WORLD ORDER??
FEMA CAMP and the out of control government??
We need to be praying. God bless and keep us all.
@@TriciaRP You better preach!
@@TriciaRP conspiracy much, let me guess, you heard this from your pastor, who's job is to keep you frightened, and the collection plate full. Living in fear, is living in darkness, there is light in the world 🌎 if you chose to let it shine in your life.
@@glennd5574 dude, what the hell are you talking about. You obviously lack the comprehension to formulate an opinion on what I wrote. Your paranoid of government, politics and media is showing. Here's a clue you've probably missed, the chaos that is consuming the world, isn't nothing new, we just have more ways to ensure people are frightened. This format we're both are using is a double edged sword. On one hand, we hoped it would give a voice to those who didn't have a platform, to voice their concern. On the other hand, social media is a propaganda tool useful by both sides of the political spectrum, and it's only going to get worse as A.I. becomes more acceptable. I'm like George Carlin, I don't have a horse in the race, because I've known for a long time, this country has never lived up to its potential, and why should it start now. How many marches, riots, murderers by cops and gangs and politicians does it take for people to understand, America is a modern Rome. And just like Rome, it's demise came from within. The only difference is, we can watch the demise from the comfort of our overpriced homes. We're the only Empire that ever existed, that has 25 hour news coverage of our demise. Fox, CNN,ABC,NBC,MSNBC etc. are more than willing to get you worked up on silly shit, while the real people who OWN you, steal your money and future, while you fight over Vaccines, and who's the greatest basketball player, JORDAN OR LEBRON. So my friend, lighten up with your needless criticism.
Give her her flowers and props NOW! She was wayyyy ahead of her time. Unbelievable athleticism, skill, talent and strength.
I’m very much at a loss to Surya’s story. It must have been very hard for her because your mind would have had to be constantly fortified to deal with that level of racism and ridicule. I’m sure if it had been me I could not make it. ( I’m too much of a crybaby for that to have worked out for me.)😭 Surya your amazing and loved to this day. The level of mental abuse Black woman and girls face never fails to astonish me. Stay healthy ladies.💕
She cried many times and kept working on her craft only to come up short every time with the judges system. Not one endorsement in sight or sponsors! Her costumes reminded me of royalty I can only imagine what world she went to inside her mind when performing at that level going through all that bullshit from the whites!🙄
They say women have to be able to do it backwards and in heels. Times 2 if you are black.
Surya was my favorite skater in that genre.
She really was amazing 😁
@@SamMartinPeakPerformance yes. Her back flip to one foot to make it agree as a skating jump. My friend was a skater and I was a gymnast and we made sure to watch it all. Surya bridged the gap.
@Eilliw Nodrog not critized. It's too dangerous for all the skater to be in the rules. This is gymnastic. Not figure skating. She penalized herself. But I am french and I remember how people were supporting her.
@@fabs8498 Is a legal jump if it can be landed on one foot and place in a combination. Which she did: a back flip landed on one foot up into a triple Salchow jump.
*A back flip landed on one foot into a triple Salchow Jump no, else have done that!*
Amen...she was way beyond her time, hats off to her. She refused to accept secomd best when she knew she was the best.✅👍
She's one of our national treasures without a doubt, and brought a lot of exposure to a sport that wans't very popular before her. A badass angel on the ice !
Thank you sir for this gutsy truth! I've always admired Miss Bonaly and I remember and watched/shared the painful feeling of such awful treatment. She's so deserving of being remembered as a tremendous force of inspiration and determination. My shero.
Glad you enjoyed :) and her story is def one much more people need to be made aware of!
I just loved her, she's sooo awesome. I hardly remember all the other skaters honestly but I never ever forgot Surya. She was sooo talented.
And just represents so many amazing things all athletes should aspire towards :) thanks for watching
Surya Bonaly is the best figure skater that has ever figure skated in the world
This video was very inspiring. Not just because of her story but also because of your narration of it. Great work. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks very much :) glad you enjoyed
STILL RACIST to this DAY.🤔😷
@@SamMartinPeakPerformance Thank you!! You did a wonderful job with this story!!
@@VictoriousSage thank you, appreciate it 🙏 it's an amazing story more people need to know!
Always loved her & thought she got a bad wrap during her competitive career. Her illegal back flip in Nagano in 1998 was the PERFECT badass exit! BRAVO!!
Best of all times. She is the first to do the back flip and land on one foot!
Absolutely 💪
And the best there ever will be, unless other black girls take up figure skating 😂
@@shunshun4861 - Debi Allen from Stanford University was in the 1988 Olympics.
@Eilliw Nodrog jumping on skates is dangerous too but not banned...
No other skater could land a backflip while skating
Natasha Brown, point of correction!!!! “She is the first AND ONLY COMPETITIVE SKATER to do the back flip and land on one foot” Thank you. Surya’s case was one of deep-seated hatred, jealousy, disrespect, and, clear, brazen, RACISM!!! Trust me, if she were of another skin color and doing the very same things Surya did, they’d be hailing her as “Revolutionary, a breath of fresh air, magical, exquisite, graceful, breathtaking, genius, inventive, a technical marvel, etc etc” Her pictures would be circling the globe, the media would be fighting and falling over themselves to get to her doorBut, alas, we all know too well, though we pretend not to, the despicable and disgraceful reasons why that was not to be. Surya has always been the greatest champion there was and Surya will forever be the greatest champion! Thank you so much for telling the truth in this video.
The black reality; "you have to do twice as much, to be half as good".
I was raised with this it’s called Black tax.
😪
Yeah. Because if you just win by a little, they say either you didn't win or that you cheated. Or they cheat and call it fair. They can't take the idea of you just being a peer that edged out competition. You have to be so extraordinary that at least some feel OK with losing to you.
I once saw a boxing match between a white Brit and an African American. They fought in Britain. The black guy was out-boxing the Brit, but not amazingly. So the Brit performed a totally illegal hip throw. The ref acted like the guy had slipped, and didn't do anything to the Brit. And the crowd cheered.
She's a whole lot more than twice as good. And still...
@@kobaltkween surely not talent is talent!
It's a shame that things like this still happens
Reminds me of Simone Biles
True - seems like the sporting world never learns
@Eilliw Nodrog Are you serious? Lol. SOMEONE sound J E A L O U S
@Eilliw Nodrog I would date her anytime and probably wouldn't notice you even on en empty street ;)
@Eilliw Nodrog So you must appeared in Glamour and Cover Girl magazine, right?🙄🤔.. Gthoh . You're a hater.
Head and shoulders over Biles and Biles has not survived even one tenth of the discrimination
It’s crazy how the judges criticized Surya for being “too athletic.” Fast-forward to 2022, the judges CELEBRATE the ATHLETIC SKATERS and penalize the ones who aren’t. Surya Bonaly was a TRENDSETTER! (and so was Madori Ito--she was also criticized for being "too athletic.”) ❤️❤️
Yes, look at what they did to Simone Biles!!! They told her that she was not to perform the "Biles" technique and expect credit for its indisputable style and greatness over other gymnasts because it was not "fair" to the other gymnasts who simply could not do what she could do in this feat! Smdh...
👏👏 exactly
It always beake my geart how black women treat in this world 🌎
If they could not do it that's too bad. Sick and tired of jealousy and envy among our black greats!!!!!! And they are just that given the opportunity. A gift from God. I am so proud of them whatever field they choose in life. As long as the white lie can be spread, it's okay.
i agree Bonaly is the most capable woman's skater hands down.
She was truly phenomenonal 👏
She really was the best! Thank you for having the guts to spotlight her. She should not be forgotten.
Her story needs to be known by wayyy more people :) thanks for watching
We all know the truth of Surya's grit and talent. She left her mark though...they won't be able to forget her no matter how they try!
Absolutely - and hopefully more and more people will learn about this amazing woman!!
A beautiful and outstanding skater , blessings to you for ever
truth!
Thanks for sharing this inspiring story Sam!
Thanks for watching Krishna - really appreciate it! 🙏
Surya? Any the Indian connection 🤔?
@@harigovind6316 Her parents travelled to India previously and were going to adopt a child from India. But then an orphanage in France contacted her parents and they adopted her. They named her Surya as a tribute to their love for India :)
The best ice skater that I’ve ever seen. Thank you Surya for being brave and bold enough to share your gift with the world. Your name and accomplishments will be known throughout my family. You’re simply the best at what you do! 💐
Thank you Sam for such a great account of history of this amazing skater.
I am in awe of someone who chooses to persevere and push beyond boundaries while facing such toxicity in the air. The closest I can relate is when I worked in a company where I was the only Black person out of about 100 employees who were White. I had to goto work everyday, do the best job I could while overhearing negative comments and jokes about me, talking down to me or like I was a pet and nitpicking. I even had to endure being at fault for Nicole Simpson's death because OJ was found innocent. Yet, I was the one they turned to train new people. I was good enough to train but not good enough for the higher level position and money that should come with it. Yet, you push through. I left that company and didn't realize how much I was suffering from PTSD which was compounded by other experiences until I left the US. When Surya wouldn't stand on the podium, I could feel her anguish and anger.
So I stand here and applaud Surya for exhibiting such grace (at least on camera :) ), perseverance, dedication to the art and being an example of achieving in spite of the obstacles. I appreciate the lessons her experiences teaches.
Funny how I am just learning about her now yet I don't follow ice skating but I definitely knew about her competitors during that time period.
Thank you so much for sharing your experiences Maggie. I can only imagine what you have had to go through and am inspired by your attitude of perseverance 👏👏
Maggie D, thank you so much for your touching and emotional piece on courage and encouragement in the face of despair, heartbreak, racism, unfairness and injustice!!! Yes, I wholeheartedly agree with you that wherever Surya is, I pray she knows that we know and never forgets that the UNIVERSE knows she’s the best, the greatest and the GOAT!!! Even, in the face of such hatred and jealousy, they can NEVER, EVER , NEVER take her greatness and grace from her!!
My favorite figure skater ⛸
Icon
Absolutely man!
Thank you for telling the story.n I know her pain being black in America and wanting to be a ballerina during era segregation. In the South. So much is lost to this world because of such narrow views of skill and beauty. Surface achieved greatness beyond another man’s rules of separation. Go Surya!
Thanks for sharing Ethalia - glad it resonated (and hopefully inspired) :)
Ms Bonaly was robbed of gold medals due to racism in the figure skating sports, pure and simple 😞
Sad but true. However, you could make the argument it’s not specifically racism, but colorism as well. Yes, Black women probably have it the hardest in a competition sport that can shallowly make or break someone’s victory based on how well they do or don’t fit the Barbie-like mold that society can’t seem to get over. But for Black women, their complexion can sadly make that favor even harder to attain. I say this because as a Black woman, I have seen and experienced various treatments-good and bad- based on my complexion. Specifically, darker-skinned Blacks, like myself, can be deemed less favorably than a Black person who’s complexion is more similar to Zoe Saldana, Halle Berry or Zendaya. Even if there are some judges of color in the stands, that kind of bias sadly does still exist 😢😡
@@oHmega14 So then figure skating is not really a sport but an art form like ballet or modern dance. Beauty in art is mostly in the eye of the beholder. Someone like Surya Bonaly can be the best figure skater in the world but still lose because the judges are the gatekeepers of that intangible thing called aesthetics IMO.
@@abrahkadabra9501, exactly. And that's what makes this so sad.
@@abrahkadabra9501 NOP sorry Skating like Gymanstic or many sport has a socre board depending on Difficulties and excution. The diffulties point are set (so the gymnast can calculate how many point they need tho reach a certain goal) and the ARTISTIQUE are based on judge eyes... And never gave her what she deserves on BOTH side... So yeah real RACISM and REAL DISCRIMINATION.for expamle a triple axel with a double worth so much point and if you succed it you should automaticly get those point mines the deduction if you did some mistake (on landing, hand position, rotation ect.... But for Surya even with perfection, they will always found something and gave her less point and she will practice harder and come back with crazier move but the judge wont let her win... NEVER!!! And if you compare the Skater who run against her you feel like its a bad bad joke because the level are just not the same... Like with Simone Biles!
she didn't do a performance good enough for a gold... I've watched the competition for many years, and she simply did not have enough points in her performance to win it on many occasions.
she is still an amazing skater of course. to get 2nd in the olympics it's the best of the best really.
Thank you for this video, for shedding such a bright light of this most gifted girl, young lady, woman and athlete!!
#SuryaBonaly, "She is a 10!!" ⛸ ⛸ ❤🦋🦋🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽
Thanks Joann - her story is one more need to know!!
@@SamMartinPeakPerformance And I knew nothing of her, so this video was a blessing. I also watched another one afterwards about her being a ice- teacher, in love and I think owning her own rink... or at least it is that she loves the one she is teaching in. Thanks again Sam!!
Am glad someone has done a documentary on her...she was and is great!
She was simply heads & shoulders better than the rest of the skaters. I never even heard of ANY skater even attempting any flips, much less back flips, and she did them on a regular basis... Beyond amazing and awe-inspiring...
Yes. Not many men were doing that if they could. They would high score the men on athleticism but not her.😔 She deserved better!
Skaters (mostly men) do backflips often…just during exhibitions not in competition because it was been illegal since 1976.
Scott Hamilton used to do them in exhibition skates. Brendan Kerry, who represented Australia at the Olympics, does amazing backflips too.
Super coool to see this. To add, not many people know, but she has a wonderful sense of humour and is crazy fun in person.
I always loved seeing her skate. In the Olympics we knew she would not medal because she would not bow to the judges or anyone else. If the backflip was not allowed because they had to land it on one foot she should have been able to get it counted. No one else to this day has landed it on one foot. She was a world champion gymnast and proved she COULD land that jump on one foot. I saw it every time I ever watched her in competition, exhibition, and later ice shows.
Her French mother was a lioness who stood behind her without backing down. She was a valiant artist and blew everyone away with that jump.
As a Jamaican.....I watched her growing up and identified with her because if skin tone
Thanks for sharing Eladio :)
I remember watching her back then. She was phenomenal and I couldn't believe my ears when the commentators spoke so badly about her while she did those hard routines. I was so proud of her. I knew she would resurface.
For more on Surya check out the awesome “Losers” episode about her on Netflix
So surprising that this talented, awesome skater would be in this programme as she was a winner, everyone could see that, but the powers that be could not unfortunately. What a shame.
@@kazkazzie3906 yeah the title is a bit of a sham! But it's still a great show detailing the heroic/inspiring stories of sometimes forgotten athletes :)
Netflix should even be ashamed including her in such a despicable show. Shows they’re idiots and have no conscience!!!
Surya was so breathtaking to watch, while performing. Her attire was unique and the colors were just stunning! Oh, how I forget the makeup! Everything about her...Perfection! That smile, confidence........
I was 10 years old when Surya Bonaly landed that back flip at the Olympics. It was one of the coolest and most unique things I ever saw. She was so much fun to watch. That Olympics, in general, were controversial due to Tara Lipinsky beating Michelle Kwan. Surya Bonaly was a revolutionary figure skater.
Clearly she had the skills. It was the color of her skin. She did not fit their standards of beauty.
Thank you for doing a story on this remarkable woman.
her story needs to be known by wayyy more people!! :)
Thanks so much for all the details. Wonderful History
Glad you enjoyed Daphne :)
You are the greatest, even though they are AFRAID to tell you. Love ya girl
👏👏
Thank you for doing the research and presenting this. I feel so proud of her and her bravery to do what she was passionate about even though others disapproved. She honestly should have gotten more recognition.
Completely agree with you Mea. And thanks for watching :) I hope many more people come to learn her story
Its sad that they didn't appreciate her skills. Why was it so bad that her costumes were more colorful than her competitors? I thought her skin color and the color of her outfits looked fantastic.
She was my favorite skater as a kid. Her low scores were absurd.
GOAT
She really is!!!
This woman faced such racism and was a true badass in her sport! She was in a class of her own they dogged her though!
I wish I had known about Surya a long time ago. She is awesome.
Outstanding athlete, she definitely was shorted and deserved better, bravo 👏❤
This culture is taking sports by storm...Strong People...
Shine Surya Bonaly!!!💕 Shine! Shine! Shine! 🥰 Like The Beautiful Star and Champion You Are!!! 💕You Are A Rare Gem Fit For A Crown!!! 💕So Rare That The Judges Tried To Hide It And Put You Down!!! 🤔But No Matter What They Did They Couldn’t Help But See Your Talent, Your Grace , Your Extraordinaire Beauty And Personality!!! 💕You Remained A Queen Professional And Poised To The End!!! 💕You Will Forever Remain In History The Best Spectacular Figure Skater That Has Ever Been!!! 💕Thank You For Caring And Thank You For Sharing When It Comes To Surya Bonaly, There Is No Comparing!!! . . . I Do Like And Love This Commentary!!! . . . Will Definitely Share!!!😎💕🙏🏾Blessings
She is the Serena Williams on ice!
I remember watching Surya Bonaly as a child with my parents and my siblings. We loved her!!!
Another G.O.A.T.
I am American in the Midwest and I still have chills and goose bumps watching this just like it was 1993. My brother and I were grown and didn't live together but wen she was gonna skate we waited patiently. We would both be on the phone going crazy when she flipped. We were so angry she wasn't acknowledged as the best tht ever skated. We understood why she seemed angry wen she got low scores. I was and am so proud of the beautiful black woman. We(black) people kill every sport. I love what she did
Man wow! i have never heard of her and she is such a legend.
thank god for UA-cam!
She knew her worth, knew she was one of the greats and you can tell with the way she pushed boundaries even when shunned. I don’t know much about the figure skating world but I definitely know of her and that’s legacy.
Thank you for this wonderful commentary on this incredible athlete and young woman
Glad you enjoyed Patricia - more people need to know about her story and what an inspiration she is!
So incredibly sad how humans fear powerful change makers and anything even remotely different to status quo.... what an absolute force of nature she is! A true trailblazer and a true ARTIST! In every way! F*ck conventions! She is an absolute inspirations for generations to come if only her story continues to be told and shared! I don't really watch figure skating, but I would watch all of hers! What a LEGEND! Thank you for making this video and sharing her story!
And, still she rise!!!
🙌
Top Notch Symposium Sir!
Top Notch... Thank YOU for. Such an honest analysis of her accomplishments..
It was the most informative reveal of just how "BAD ASS" she is and her rightful place in World History.
I actually gave way to tears at the end because the lesson in life is as SHE clearly demonstrated live life on your terms and NEVER EVER allow the average, to place YOU on their level nor in their basic 📦.... She is a TRUE Superhero!!!
Absolutely 💪 thanks for watching and sharing your takeaway. Her story will continue to inspire!
She’s a pioneer for cool skills and ice skating techniques. So cool !
Duty’s was already gold from the beginning, we put to much emphasis on mans views especially the ones who are in control of these games. A way to limit our people and we have the talent to pursue the unlimited because we have a limitless God. What is your passion let it shine through, don’t try to fit in and let people limit you because they will never award you just continue to suppress you. Take a stand, be you and break the limits off. Thanks Surya for finally being you and showing them that you did not need their gold, but you were already worth much more than their gold. I love when you did those flips. Amazing.
loved this video ! thank you for this !
Thanks for watching! Glad you enjoyed Mathilde 🙂
Jealousy is real. Bravo to this superior skater!!!
When you know your the BEST, all that matters is how you feel about yourself. Haters be damned!
I remember as a teen watching Surya in the olympics. Such injustice and systemic racism! They always favoured Oksana...
Omgosh - she even cut her long thick braided hair??? 🙆♀️🙆♀️🙆♀️🙆♀️
Surya, if you are reading this "Good for you that you stood up for what you believed in..yourself.....we remember you most for BRAVERY!"
Thank you Sam, for reminding us of the truth. The truth lives on🙏
Thanks Deb - glad you enjoyed it! She really was so hard done by
She is truly a Legend!
Powerful, dynamic, exquisite. Thank you, Ms Bonaly, for the greatest thrill I ever experienced watching any figure skater. Truly her own woman! 🎆
Surya it's a grown woman today how is she and what is she doing today she look like she would be a good leader in anything she did
Thank you for recognizing this brilliant figure skater of a young woman
More people need to know her story!! :)
Love this...thanks for sharing.
Glad you enjoyed Afi
SOUL POWERFUL!!! . . . Truth Be Told!!! 💕Truth Can Be Lied On But Truth Can Never Change! 🤔People May Try To Hide The Truth But The Fact Still Remains . . . That No Matter What You Say And No Matter What You Do . . .Truth Will Always Come Shining Through!!! 💕 Thanks For Sharing This Truth And Remarkable Moment In History!!! 😎💕🙏🏾Blessings . . . This Truly Inspires Me To Continue To Stand And Fight For Truth, Justice And Equality!!!😎💕👊🏾
Thanks Sewah - love your energy!!!
Surya I hope you read this your truly GOLDEN beautiful skater and clothing brilliant character too
Awesome 😎 performance with such grace … Blessings Surya🔥💯🌹
Truth 😁👏
Surya Bonaly may not have won a gold medal, but people will remember her name!
👏👏
I never knew this. Thank you for posting.
Glad you enjoyed Tab!
I remember being spellbound by her performances!!!! The announcers didn’t seem to be dazzled…, strange!!!
it’s a shame she wasn’t performing in a era where judges/those who control sports are held more accountable
none of the other skaters could nor would ever be able to do surya. instead of if you cant beat them join them, it was a case of there is no way in hell you can ever beat her, so deny her. dam shame. surya you rock, no 1 forever.
Thanks for the review. It made me cry. What an athlete! So unfair!
Glad you enjoyed Andrea :) her story needs to be shared!
Thank you for this. It made me very emotional.
I remember she and her mom. I felt bad for the way they were treated. When athletes like Surya Bonaly does routines and features certain moves that “they” can’t perform yet, they reject those moves. But when their preferred athletes achieves similar feats, they say she’s so innovative and athletic. Individual sports like Skating, Gymnastics, and Tennis, already requires mental toughness, because you can’t lean on teammates, then add the racial component, it can break you down. Remember Jackie Robinson (Rip), Simone Biles, Serena Williams, etc. Then your own Country trashes you.
I agree with every second of this video...
Thanks for watching :)
Thank you for posting this.
Always has been my favorite!
Thank you for the video. I have to say, this is the first time I've heard of Ms. Bonaly. What a shame the sport hated for what and who God made her to be. Thx u again
Thanks Alis. Surya’s story is incredible and it needs to be told!
@@SamMartinPeakPerformance I agree. thxs so much again
When you are exceptionally great, it speaks for itself.
Thank you Sam, your presentation and un bias commentary on Surya was excellent.
Thanks a lot Samira 😁 means a lot and I'm glad you enjoyed
Simply the best. I loved watching her skate.
Excellent job on this video!
Thanks a lot :) glad you enjoyed
She's so good and she does it with such ease too.
Thank you for showing this
When i was a kid i got hurt on ski slopes in Pralognan. My consolation prize for not being able to ski the rest of the vacay week was to go see her skate. I will never forget her amazing performance. She rocks.
Amazing!
Beautiful video!
Thanks a lot Bridgette - glad you enjoyed it :)
True talk thank you🙌🏽
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed :)
the judges dont have the mind to feel shame Surya did more than others =GOLD
Beautiful! She should have won gold!
True grit, strength and heart of a champion without parallel--a true Wonder Women.