Short track speed skater Suzanne Schulting recorded two personal best times at the Dutch Sprint Championships, emphasizing her improved performance despite the absence of leading skaters Femke Kok and Jutta Leerdam.
According to an interview with Schulting, her training times have consistently been fast throughout the year, but these results had not previously translated into competition success. She commented, “During training, I easily achieve fast lap times, but at some point, you have to push those thoughts aside. I had already skated a fast pace, but what does that really say? It needs to come out during a competition.” This weekend marked the occasion when her efforts paid off.
Some have suggested that the Dutch Sprint Championships were less competitive due to the absence of Kok and Leerdam, who did not participate. Schulting, however, did not place much importance on this perspective. “We have to be realistic. Femke and Jutta were both not at the start, but in the end, I am just very, very happy to have set two personal bests,” she explained. “Even if those times had only earned me third place, I would still have been very pleased.” She noted that she approached the competition with less pressure and expectations, leading to better results.
Looking ahead, there is still uncertainty regarding Schulting’s schedule. Winning a national title and a silver medal provides a qualification spot for the World Sprint Championships, while shortly after, the World Short Track Championships will start in Montreal. These are two major events in quick succession across different disciplines. “I really want to go to Montreal,” Schulting said, adding that she has already discussed the matter with national coach Niels Kerstholt. The situation is complex, as there are only two starting places each for the 1,000-meter and 500-meter races. Due to TeamNL’s performance last year, fewer spots are available compared to the Olympic Games.
Schulting expects to learn about her selection shortly after the weekend and plans to focus on her upcoming races. “Sunday is still a day of competition, and I want to deliver good performances in the 500 and 1,000 meters,” she said, choosing not to speculate before official decisions are made.
schaatsen.nl, Netherlands
