Speed skater Sebas Diniz expressed satisfaction with his recent performance at the Olympic qualifying event, highlighting his strong start times and personal best near-miss as key achievements amid challenging circumstances.
The Dutch news outlet Schaatsen.nl reports on Diniz’s reflections following the competition.
Diniz described his approach to the 500 meters as technically focused, noting that although his starts had been inconsistent earlier in the season, he successfully completed two starts measured at 9.48 seconds each during the recent event. This improvement came after a dedicated week of training focused on sharpening details without easing off intensity. His time of 34.1 seconds in the first round was just 0.03 seconds slower than his personal best set in Calgary, a result that brought him a sense of calm despite the high-pressure environment.
He currently ranks seventh in the qualifying standings, placing him in a secure position to earn a spot at the Olympic Games. However, Diniz acknowledged the added stress within the team, citing factors such as illness, health protocols, and the need for social distancing. Despite these challenges, he reported feeling physically well compared to some of his teammates.
Regarding competition, Diniz spoke respectfully of his main rival, Jenning, noting a shared acknowledgment of each other’s performance rather than any sharp rivalry. Looking ahead, he anticipated a different competitive atmosphere at the upcoming event in Milan, where only a single 500-meter race will be held without the option for a re-race. Diniz expects to feel less scrutinized, as he currently competes primarily among Dutch skaters where expectations are particularly high.
He views the races he completed as a foundation for future performance improvements leading into the Olympic Games. Although the qualifying process is not yet complete, Diniz and his peers have endured what he described as the most intense 34 seconds of their year in competition so far.
