NYC Local News

Kristi Yamaguchi Interview: Japan Parade 2023, Stephen Curry

Published

12 months ago

May 14, 2023

Nir Regev

Olympic Gold Medalist Kristi Yamaguchi speaks about the honor of being NYC’s Japan Parade 2023 Grand Marshal, how she knows Stephen Curry & the Warriors will bounce back, and her George Takei fandom with The Natural Aristocrat®.

Kristi Yamaguchi – 1992 Olympic Gold Medalist Figure Skater / Japan Parade 2023 Grand Marshal. Photo Credit: Nir Regev – The Natural Aristocrat®

THE NATURAL ARISTOCRAT (NIR REGEV): I know you’re a big Stephen Curry fan! I was wondering if you can offer any words of encouragement from one champion to another?

KRISTI YAMAGUCHI (smiles) Well, he has quite a few championships already and has proven himself. So, Steph Curry is an inspiration already, but I think he has an incredible attitude & amazing leadership!

There’s no doubt that the team will be back on top again at some point. He knows the drill. Stay in it, stay positive, and come back stronger!

NYC’s Japan Parade 2023 Opening Ceremony. Photo Credit: Nir Regev – The Natural Aristocrat®

THE NATURAL ARISTOCRAT: What are you most looking forward to at Japan Parade today? What’s your favorite?

KRISTI YAMAGUCHI Oooh, parades are so special because they bring together so many people and just a variety of performers. Just the energy of it all! I know there’s gonna be drumming and dancers and anime.

So a little bit of everything for everyone. I’m just excited to see so much of the Japanese culture coming together and being celebrated.

THE NATURAL ARISTOCRAT: When I spoke to Ambassador Mikio Mori, he mentioned how excited you were when you first heard you were going to be the Grand Marshal. I was wondering if you could describe that feeling. Is it euphoric to be invited to such an honor?

KRISTI YAMAGUCHI Yeah! Well I mean obviously, it’s a huge honor and especially to follow George Takei, who’s an icon, as a Grand Marshal.

And when you hear of a parade in New York City, it’s a pretty cool thing. So to be a part of it… Especially to be a part of something so close to my heart being a Japanese American and kind of being the bridge here between Japan, New York, and the US. It’s a special honor for me.

Kristi Yamaguchi – Olympic Gold Medalist Figure Skater / Japan Parade 2023 Grand Marshal and Emcee/Host Sandra Endo. Photo Credit: Nir Regev – The Natural Aristocrat®

THE NATURAL ARISTOCRAT: Did you speak to George Takei?

KRISTI YAMAGUCHI: (smiles) I didn’t get to speak to George Takei. But it would be very awesome to be able to! I’m a big fan of him for many different reasons.

THE NATURAL ARISTOCRAT: Thanks Kristi!

KRISTI YAMAGUCHI: Thank you!