Which country has won the most speed skating medals?
The Netherlands
The Netherlands remained the dominant country with 12 medals including six gold to extend its all-time lead. Erin Jackson of the United States became the first Black woman to win a speed skating gold medal.
Is speed skating in the Olympics?
Speed skating is an Olympic sport that requires tremendous amounts of explosivity, balance and endurance. There are a total of 14 different events for both men and women that range in distance.
Who was the best Olympic speed skater?
Sven Kramer. Sven Kramer is the most decorated speed skater in the history of the Winter Olympics with a total of nine medals, in addition to having the most World Championships of any skater ever. Kramer is the only skater in Olympic history to win gold three consecutive times in the 5000m event.
When did speed skating appear in the Olympics?
1924
Speed skating appeared for the first time in 1924 at the first Olympic Winter Games in Chamonix. Initially, only men were allowed to participate. It was only at the Lake Placid Games in 1932 that women were authorised to compete in speed skating, which was then only a demonstration sport.
How did Erin Jackson get in Olympics?
Jackson’s gold came after the native of balmy Ocala, Florida, slipped at the U.S. trials and shockingly finished third, putting her spot on the Olympic team in jeopardy. But teammate Brittany Bowe, who finished first at the trials, gave up her spot on the team to ensure Jackson would get to skate in Beijing.
What is speed skating in the Winter Olympics?
Watch Olympic athletes circle the ice at more than 30 miles per hour as they race for gold in speed skating. Speed skating is one six sports to appear in every Winter Games since the inaugural 1924 Chamonix Olympics. This year’s events will be held at the recently constructed National Speed Skating Oval in Beijing.
How fast do speed skaters go in the Olympics?
30 mph
How fast do speed skaters at the Olympics go? While short-track speed skaters usually reach speeds exceeding 30 mph, long-track speed skaters can typically hit over 35 mph.
When did female speed skaters first compete?
1960
It was only at the Lake Placid Olympic Winter Games in 1932 that women were authorized to compete, which was then only a demonstration sport. It was not until the 1960 Olympic Winter Games in Squaw Valley (Palisades Tahoe) that women’s speed skating was officially included in the Olympics.