Joy Beune, facing the final World Cup events in Inzell, discusses her disappointment over missing Olympic qualification in the 1,500 meters but remains focused on competing at the upcoming Winter Games and finishing the season strong.
NOS, Netherlands
Joy Beune appeared upbeat in Inzell shortly before the World Cup races, a stark contrast to a month ago when she missed out on qualifying for the Olympics in the 1,500 meters, her preferred distance. She described the emotional toll of that moment, saying, “I was really upset about it and felt sick for a couple of days.” Despite the setback, she has accepted the situation and acknowledged that she was responsible for not qualifying. “It’s not easy to say this to myself, but I messed it up,” Beune admitted.
Since then, Beune has resumed training with renewed focus. The three-time world champion at an individual distance expressed enthusiasm for skating, stating, “There is nothing better than this. I will give my best at the Games and aim for gold.” Although she will not compete in the 1,500 meters at the Olympics, she is eligible to skate in the 3,000 meters event in Milan next month.
Before the Olympics, Beune plans to compete in the final World Cup events of the season in Inzell, including the 1,500 meters. She remains confident in her standing within the World Cup ranking for that distance and intends to continue racing it. She also mentioned the possibility of participating in the World Allround Championships. While she doesn’t expect to peak in Inzell due to training intensity, she feels her current form is strong. Notably, she is competing with a bruised finger, likely sustained while putting on her skates during practice.
