Weir, Petrenko
to join benefit
for tsunami relief

January 31, 2005

Johnny Weir

Viktor Petrenko

Two-time U.S. National champion Johnny Weir and Olympic gold medalist Viktor Petrenko will join other international figure skating champions on Feb. 4 in the Detroit area to host Skate-Aid for Tsunami Relief, a benefit show to raise money for tsunami victims and families in Asia.

Among the star-studded skaters are U.S. ice dancing champions Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto; Olympic bronze medalist Timothy Goebel, five-time U.S. ice dancing champions Elizabeth Punsalan and Jerod Swallow and Amber Corwin, who finished fourth at this year’s U.S. Nationals.

“I think it’s great that the skaters came up with the idea to help out the tsunami victims and families,” Weir said. “I’m looking forward to participating and help bring aware to the public that we can make a difference in other countries that need our help and resources.”

The show will run from 7-9:30 p.m. at the Compuware Sports Arena in Plymouth, Mich. Tickets are $15 for children, $20 for adults and a limited number of premier tickets are available for $100, including front-row seating and admission to a post-show reception party with the stars.
Tickets are available through the Compuware Sports Arena Box Office or by calling 734-453-6400.

All proceeds will go to the Red Cross International Response Fun earmarked to support tsunami relief efforts.

“Many organizations have already demonstrated willingness to do whatever they can to help make a difference with this tragic situation,” said Merrie Parr, event coordinator.