Childhood and Education Journey of Johnny Weir in Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Johnny Weir, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

John Garvin Weir, an American television commentator and retired figure skater, achieved considerable success in his athletic career. He is a two-time Olympian, a 2008 World bronze medalist, and a two-time Grand Prix Final bronze medalist. Weir also distinguished himself as the 2001 World Junior Champion and a three-time U.S. National champion (2004–2006). Notably, he was the youngest U.S. National champion since 1991 and the first skater since the 1980s to win three consecutive U.S. National titles. In 2007, he became the first American to win the Cup of Russia.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

July 2, 1984: Johnny Weir's Birth

On July 2, 1984, John Garvin Weir was born. He later became a prominent American television commentator and retired figure skater.

1984: Father's Accident

In 1984, Johnny Weir's father, John Weir, had a disabling car accident that made traveling difficult for him. The 2006 Olympics was the first of Johnny's competitions since Weir was a novice, that John Weir was able to attend.

1992: Inspired by Kristi Yamaguchi at the Albertville Winter Olympics

In 1992, after watching Kristi Yamaguchi win a gold medal at the Albertville Winter Olympics, Johnny Weir's parents bought him used figure skates, and he taught himself to skate.

1994: Inspired by Oksana Baiul at the Winter Olympics

In 1994, Johnny Weir was further inspired to pursue figure skating after watching Oksana Baiul compete at the Winter Olympics, following the Nancy Kerrigan attack. His parents bought him a new pair of skates and group lessons.

1996: Family moved to Newark, Delaware

In early 1996, Johnny Weir's family moved to Newark, Delaware, so he could be closer to his training rink and coach.

2002: Graduated from Newark High School

In 2002, Johnny Weir graduated from Newark High School as an honor roll student.

2007: Coaching Change

In 2007, Johnny Weir parted ways with his longtime coach Priscilla Hill and began working with Galina Zmievskaya. He sought Zmievskaya's stricter approach to help him improve and win championships.

2008: Moved to New Jersey and Training Changes

In 2008, Johnny Weir moved to an apartment in New Jersey to train with his new coach, Galina Zmievskaya. He changed his choreographer and training routine. Weir felt homesick and nervous about living alone in a large city, but he also believed the move taught him discipline and independence.

2009: Considering Retirement

After the previous season, Johnny Weir became depressed and considered quitting figure skating before the 2009-2010 season, but his mother convinced him to continue and aim for the 2010 Olympics.

July 2010: Withdrawal from Competition

In July 2010, Johnny Weir announced his withdrawal from the 2010-2011 season, planning to take a year to explore new avenues while considering a return for the 2014 Sochi Olympics.