Smeding Leads Solo Effort, Highlights Value in Speed Skating Investment

Sixteen years ago, Sir Steve Redgrave advocated for the establishment of a 400m speed skating oval in the UK. He believed that investing in this facility could lead to multiple Olympic medals within ten years. Redgrave suggested that athletes from sports like cycling and rowing, which share a high cardiovascular demand, could thrive in speed skating. This investment approach aimed to make Britain competitive with the Netherlands, a nation poised to secure its 50th Olympic gold shortly.

The Interchangeability of Sports

Clara Hughes, a Canadian athlete, showcased the potential crossover between sports by winning Olympic medals in both summer and winter events. This underscores the idea that skills developed in cycling or rowing could translate effectively to speed skating.

Current Funding Challenges

Despite the advantages, UK Sport funding tends to prioritize immediate results over long-term growth. Consequently, speed skating is allocated a mere fraction of the £1.9 million distributed to British Ice Skating for various disciplines. In comparison, skeleton receives £5.7 million. Critics argue that speed skating, with its 14 medal opportunities compared to skeleton’s three, deserves more support. However, funding preferences often favor established sports over those with untapped potential.

Smeding’s Journey and Funding Solutions

• In her bid to compete, Smeding and partner Cornelius Kersten have resorted to operating a coffee business.
• Challenges persist in financially sustaining their speed skating ambitions.

Smeding optimized her training by moving from a Dutch base to Canada, under coach Bart Schouten. This decision came after battling a troubling hip injury. She expressed a renewed sense of energy and happiness since relocating, noting, “It has been such a good experience being in the mountains, in a new training environment.”

Improved Perspective and Performance

This fresh start enabled her to regain confidence in her physical abilities. She emphasized the importance of a new outlook on her training, stating, “You get a new appreciation for what you are doing and how privileged I am to live this life and compete with the best in the world.”

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