By Aviva M. Cantor
Twenty-one years ago, skating fan Jose Hinojos turned off the TV, got off the couch and decided to become a skater himself.
“Watching Michelle Kwan skate is what made me really want to try it,” he recalls. Now, as an adult silver competitor at age 49, nothing keeps Hinojos from doing what he loves—not even a 2 1/2-hour commute.
The Tucson, Arizona-based skater drives 2 1/2 hours year-round to get to the nearest rink in Gilbert, Arizona. He has done this commute nearly every Friday since his local rink closed many years ago.
“We were supposed to get an ice rink here in Tucson next year," Hinojos said. "Then it got moved to 2025. Last I heard was 2026. My guess is that it will probably never happen for us again. For me, moving is not an option, so I’ll be driving until I drop!”
Hinojos works as a dental technician by day and as a guest services supervisor at a convention center by night. He plans his work schedule to ensure that he’s usually able to skate on Fridays. On the long commutes, Hinojos relies on his favorite singer, Britney Spears, to help him stay motivated. He enthusiastically proclaims, “I love Britney!”
As a Mexican-American skater, Hinojos is proud of his heritage.
“My parents were both born and raised in Mexico—my mom is from Sonora and my dad is from Chihuahua. I was born in Nogalez, Arizona, but I’m 100 percent Mexican and lived in Mexico until the age of 11. Mexico has a big place in my heart, but I love my country of birth just the same.”
With roots in Mexico and the United States, National Hispanic Heritage Month hits close to home for Hinojos.
“National Hispanic Heritage Month is very important to me because it’s a good way for people to know about Hispanic culture, history and achievements," he said. "It’s also important that Hispanic people are recognized for their influence. If there are any Hispanic heritage events in your local community, I encourage everyone to join and find out more about Hispanic heritage.”
The first Hispanic or Latinx skater to win a national title is Rudy Galindo, who captured the hearts of many when he became the surprise champion at the 1996 U.S. Figure Skating Championships. Looking back on Galindo’s influence, Hinojos has fond memories.
Rudy Galindo captured the hearts of many when he won the men's U.S. Championship title in 1996. Looking back on Galindo’s influence, Hinojos has fond memories.
“Rudy has been a big role model for me," Hinojos said. "Even though I wasn’t skating at the time he won, watching him skate his heart out and win the title and knowing his heritage was a happy time for me. I couldn’t be happier for him. I still hope to meet him in person one day. Figure skating is not a big sport among Hispanics. When we get into it, it’s because we were exposed to it in some way. For me it was watching it on TV, then a friend invited me to go skating and I haven’t stopped since.”
When it comes to his own skating, Hinojos’ goals for the season include focusing on skating skills, doing more off-ice training and eating healthy. Additionally, he hopes to see his fellow skaters embrace diversity in all aspects.
“Diversity in any sport should be more encouraged ... We as skaters should be encouraging others to join and have fun with us on the ice."
