Jillert Anema, coach of the Zaanlander speed skating team, experienced a remarkable day as his athletes Jorrit Bergsma and Marijke Groenewoud both secured Olympic gold medals in the mass start events.
NOS, a leading Dutch news outlet, reported on Anema’s unique role during the Olympic mass start races, where he was seen coaching from the sidelines instead of the national coach Rintje Ritsma.
While Rintje Ritsma is typically recognized as the national team coach, the 70-year-old Fries was present in the coach’s area supporting his own Zaanlander skaters, a fact that explained his absence from the official national coaching position during the event. Anema expressed his intense enthusiasm throughout the races, stating that he was very determined to win and was delighted when his aspirations were realized.
In the men’s race, an early attack by Bergsma paved the way for his Olympic title, though Anema revealed that the initial move was intended for teammate Stijn van de Bunt. According to Anema, van de Bunt lacked the necessary experience, allowing Bergsma to quietly overtake the pack. Anema noted that this tactic also involved downplaying the seriousness of Bergsma’s breakaway by maintaining a calm presence at the side of the track.
Reflecting on the race outcomes, Anema commented that they had effectively surprised their competitors. He was especially driven not to let the women’s title slip away after seeing the camaraderie between competitor Blondin and his athlete Groenewoud before the start. Anema’s competitive spirit intensified at that moment, motivating his team to secure victory. His commitment was rewarded when Groenewoud claimed the gold, completing a highly successful day for the coach and his Zaanlander team.
