Ragne Wiklund claimed gold in the women’s 3000 meter speed skating race, setting a new track, national, and personal record with a time of 3:54.74.
Schaatsen.nl, published in the Netherlands, reports on the impressive performance by the European champion.
Wiklund, who has won the World Cup standings for long distances for three consecutive seasons, maintained a notably steady pace throughout the race, including the final meters where she has previously shown signs of fatigue. The 25-year-old Norwegian skater exceeded expectations by breaking multiple records in a single event.
In the final heat, Joy Beune attempted to surpass Wiklund’s new track record but was ultimately unsuccessful. After the race, Beune remarked that the opening lap felt very easy, but she lacked the decisive power to improve her time. Having won the 1500 meters the day before, Beune described the 3000 meters as more of a training race to maintain her competitive rhythm.
Despite the loss of her former record, Beune acknowledged Wiklund’s exceptional performance and accepted the result with sportsmanship. She remains focused on future competitions, especially emphasizing her intention to peak at the upcoming event in Milan, where she aims to deliver a strong race and contend for gold.
