Dutch speed skater Bente Kerkhoff has withdrawn from the 5,000 meter event at the Winter Olympics because of a back injury, delaying her anticipated Olympic debut.
According to her coach Arjan Samplonius, the 24-year-old from Oostwoud sustained a back injury during training. After consultation with the medical team, it was decided to withdraw her from the race on Thursday afternoon as a precautionary measure to ensure she remains fit for the team pursuit and mass start events.
Marijke Groenewoud will replace Kerkhoff in the 5,000 meter race. Groenewoud has already competed in the 3,000 meter event at these Games, finishing in eighth place, and is also set to participate in the 1,500 meter and mass start competitions. Groenewoud’s additional start will be reminiscent of last year’s World Single Distances Championships, where she also competed in the 5,000 meter despite not qualifying, stepping in for Sanne in ‘t Hof, who had to withdraw due to stomach issues. At that event in Hamar, Groenewoud finished sixth.
The change in the Dutch speed skating lineup reflects ongoing adjustments necessary due to athlete health and strategic decisions during the Games.
Source: NOS, Netherlands
