Merel Conijn will participate in the upcoming World Cup speed skating event in Heerenveen after initially being expected to skip the competition.
De Telegraaf, based in the Netherlands, reports on Conijn’s change in participation status.
Initially, coach Jillert Anema from AH Zaanlander announced that Conijn would miss the World Cups in Calgary and Salt Lake City, and probably the following events, including Heerenveen. However, the Dutch champion in the 3000 and 5000 meters will compete in the 5000-meter race at the Thialf arena this weekend.
Conijn’s cautious approach to competition stems from a serious health issue more than three years ago, when she developed a calcium deficiency leading to porous bones and bone loss. The condition left her extremely fatigued and sidelined for an extended period, with medical advice suggesting a possible four-year recovery. Her recovery, however, has progressed faster than expected, though she and her team remain vigilant to ensure she balances rest and training intensity carefully, especially in an Olympic year.
The decision for Conijn to skip earlier World Cups was based on the evaluation that competing in North America would put more physical strain on her than benefits. The Dutch skating federation decided to maintain her training in the Netherlands while allowing her to regain competition rhythm through marathon skating. It was initially expected that she would only return for the Olympic qualification tournament.
Contrary to these earlier plans, the KNSB selection committee has included Conijn in the Heerenveen World Cup lineup, where she replaces teammate Elisa Dul for the race on Friday. The event runs from December 5 to December 7.
The inclusion serves a strategic purpose as the Dutch team aims to secure the maximum number of starting places for the Olympic Games by having three skaters ranked high in the World Cup standings. Freek van der Wart, the discipline manager of the Dutch skating federation, explained that Conijn’s participation, with a wildcard in the A group, is intended to significantly contribute to meeting the quotas, particularly in the longer distances.
Remy de Wit, the technical director, noted that discussions with coaches would take place during the weekend to map out the athletes’ individual preparation paths through the Olympic qualification tournament and subsequent World Cup events. These plans will be carefully tailored for each skater and distance, in close consultation with the athletes and their coaches.
