David Jenkins American figure skater Date of Birth: 29.06.1936 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Education
2. Skating Career
3. Dominance
4. Professional Career

Early Life and Education

David Jenkins was born on June 29, 1936, in Akron, Ohio, the younger brother of Olympic figure skating gold medalist Hayes Alan Jenkins. He attended Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine while pursuing his competitive career, taking time off during his time with the Ice Follies. He graduated in 1963 and became a practicing physician.

Skating Career

Jenkins won his first senior national medal, a silver, at the 1954 U.S. Championships. His first world medal, a bronze, came at the 1955 World Championships. He earned a bronze medal at the 1956 Winter Olympics, while his brother won gold. The brothers received financial support from the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and the El Pomar Foundation.

Dominance

In 1957, David Jenkins became the U.S. national champion and won the first of three consecutive world titles. He performed a triple jump Axel in a 1957 exhibition, 21 years before the jump was first landed in competition. After claiming his fourth consecutive national title, he won the gold medal at the 1960 Winter Olympics. Eddie Shipstad served as his coach.

Professional Career

After the 1960 Olympics, Jenkins declined to compete at the 1960 World Figure Skating Championships and turned professional, joining the Ice Follies.