But Richards, a part-time Utah resident and Milwaukee native, stood out for another reason: At 73, she is a “super-ager,” defying stereotypes in a sport usually reserved for youngsters.
“It’s musical and artistic, and it keeps my body in shape," said Richards, who didn’t start ice skating until her mid-50s as a way to rehabilitate after a skiing injury. The exercise not only strengthened her knees, she said, but also gave her a mantra to live by: “Glide joyfully through life.”
Richards is one of 30 competitors in the 66-and-older division at the U.S. Adult Figure Skating Championships, being held this week.