| 2002 World Speed Skating Championships |
After their recent world-record setting exploits at the Olympic Winter Games, the world's best speed skaters will come together again at the indoor ice-rink "Thialf" in Heerenveen, the Netherlands on 15-17 March to determine the men's and ladies' all-round ISU World Champion for 2002. This time the focus is not so much on breaking records as on proving who is the strongest in an exhausting series of four races at different distances over three days. They are sure to be cheered on by a large, enthusiastic crowd.
In the men's ISU World Championships skaters race over 500m, 1500m, 5000m and 10000m. Events in the ladies' competition are 500m, 1500m, 3000m and 5000m. Points are awarded based on times to decide the overall winner.
Prize money of close to $200,000 is available, with $27,500 for the overall champion in both the men's and ladies' events.
24 ladies and 24 men from a total of 13 countries will take part in the event.
Ladies' Competition
A tough battle is expected between German Olympic Champions Claudia Pechstein (3000m and 5000m) and Anni Friesinger (1500m). Two months ago it was Friesinger who won gold in the all-round ISU European Speed Skating Championships in Erfurt, Germany, and she is also the reigning World Champion from 2001.
A possible challenger is Renate Groenewold (NED), who won the Olympic silver medal in the 3000m to go with her bronze at the European Championships.
Olympic medallists Jennifer Rodriguez (USA) and Cindy Klassen (CAN) are likely to lead the North American challenge.
Men's Competition
Derek Parra (USA) and Jochem Uytdehaage (NED) will renew their Olympic rivalry in Heerenveen. Uytdehaage broke world records in the 1500m, 5000m and 10000m on his way to two golds and a silver medal. After breaking the world record Parra had to settle for second behind the Dutchman in the 5000m, but in the 1500m the positions were reversed. In January Uytdehaage also won the European all-round title.
The Dutch team is expected to be very strong with Gianne Romme, 1998 double Olympic champion and winner of the World Cup trophy for the long distances this season, and Carl Verheijen, European Championships silver medallist, completing the line-up.
Event Schedule Date Time Event Thursday 14 March 1800 Opening Draw at Heerenveen Town Hall Friday 15 March 1800 500m Men 500m Ladies 5000m Men Saturday 16 March 1300 1500m Ladies 1500m Men 3000m Ladies Sunday 17 March 1300 5000m Ladies 10000m Men Racing biographies of current speed skaters are also available on ww2.isu.org For further details please contact: Rowland Jack Communications Coordinator, Speed Skating Phone +41 21 612 66 66 Fax +41 21 612 66 77 Mobile +44 7939 203752 E-mail jack@isu.ch