Bart Swings, the defending Olympic champion, is focusing on the mass start event at the Milan speed skating competition, working through challenging track conditions and preparing with the support of teammate Indra Médard.
Sporza, published in Belgium, reports on Swings’ preparations and strategy.
As the clock counts down to the Olympic mass start event on February 21, Bart Swings has concentrated his efforts on refining his performance for this race, which is his favourite. After competing in earlier events such as the 5,000 and 10,000 meters, Swings devoted Tuesday to final training sessions at the Milan ice rink, where the notably uneven surface presented a challenge. Despite initial caution when encountering the rough ice, Swings gained confidence through improved speed and comfort on the course.
There have been concerns about potential cracks forming on the irregular ice during the taxing mass start race, which involves sixteen skaters competing simultaneously. However, Swings remains calm regarding these conditions, acknowledging the efforts of ice maintenance personnel. He also draws on his experience in marathon skating, which often involves skating on deteriorated ice toward the end. Similarly, teammate Indra Médard noted the ice’s movements and slight cracking underfoot, emphasizing the possibility of dramatic moments in the race due to these factors.
A strategic advantage for Swings this time comes from having Médard on his side as a teammate, a support unavailable to him during the Olympics in Beijing. Médard’s role could prove crucial in managing the numerous aggressive attackers in the field by closing gaps and conserving Swings’ energy. Both athletes acknowledge that advancing to the final is essential, with Médard expressing his aspiration to assist Swings in retaining his title once there. Swings is candid about his goal of winning another medal and is optimistic about his readiness for the event, leaving the outcome dependent on how the race unfolds.
