On February 15, 1961, a tragedy struck the world of American sports when Sabena Flight 548, a Boeing 707-329, crashed near Brussels, Belgium, resulting in the loss of all 72 individuals on board and one person on the ground. Among the passengers was the entire 18-member U.S. figure skating team, en route to the World Figure Skating Championships in Prague, Czechoslovakia.
The team had departed from Idlewild Airport in New York on February 14, 1961, with high hopes for the upcoming competition. The roster included prominent skaters such as 16-year-old Laurence Owen, who had recently secured the U.S. Figure Skating Championship title and was featured on the February 13, 1961, cover of Sports Illustrated as “America’s most exciting girl skater.” Also on board were her sister, Maribel Owen, and her mother, Maribel Vinson-Owen, a nine-time U.S. ladies’ champion and 1932 Olympic bronze medalist. Other notable athletes included Bradley Lord, the 1961 U.S. men’s champion; the pairs team of Maribel Owen and Dudley Richards; and the ice dancing champions Diane Sherbloom and Larry Pierce.
As the aircraft approached Brussels Airport under clear skies, it encountered difficulties during its landing sequence. At approximately 10:00 AM local time, while on final approach to Runway 20, the crew increased power and retracted the landing gear, aborting the landing. The aircraft then attempted to land on Runway 25, which was not operational at the time. Witnesses observed the pilots struggling to maintain control, suggesting a possible mechanical malfunction that impeded a normal landing. Ultimately, the plane crashed near the airport, resulting in the deaths of all on board and one individual on the ground.
The exact cause of the crash remains undetermined. Investigations considered various possibilities, including a failure of the mechanism that adjusts the tail stabilizer, but no definitive conclusion was reached. This incident marked the first fatal accident involving a Boeing 707 in regular passenger service and remains the deadliest plane crash on Belgian soil.
The loss of the U.S. figure skating team had a profound impact on the sport. The team was poised to showcase their talents on the world stage, and their absence left a significant void in American figure skating. In response to the tragedy, the U.S. Figure Skating Association established the Memorial Fund to honor the deceased athletes and support the development of future skaters. Over the years, this fund has provided financial assistance to numerous skaters, contributing to the resurgence of American figure skating talent.
The legacy of the 1961 team endures, serving as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of fate. Their dedication and passion for the sport continue to inspire new generations of skaters. Commemorations and tributes have been held to honor their memory, ensuring that their contributions to figure skating are not forgotten.
In reflecting on this tragedy, the words of Gary Clark, a close friend and training partner to many on the 1961 U.S. World Team, resonate deeply: “We must never forget.” His sentiment underscores the importance of remembering those who paved the way in the sport and the enduring impact of their legacy.
The 1961 plane crash remains a pivotal moment in the history of American figure skating, symbolizing both a profound loss and the resilience of a community dedicated to honoring the memory of its fallen members through continued excellence and support for future
generations.
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