Rudy Galindo

Rudy Galindo, born Val Joe Galindo on September 7, 1969, is a retired American figure skater. He competed in both single skating and pair skating throughout his career. Galindo achieved notable success as a single skater, becoming the 1996 U.S. national champion, the 1987 World Junior Champion, and the 1996 World Bronze medalist. In pair skating, Galindo partnered with Kristi Yamaguchi and together they won the 1988 World Junior Championship and the 1989 and 1990 U.S. National Championships. Galindo holds the distinction of being the first openly gay skating champion in the United States. He began his skating journey with his sister and overcame financial challenges to pursue his passion.