The Olympic skating suit worn by Jutta Leerdam was auctioned for 195,000 euros, with the majority of the proceeds benefiting the local sports clubs where Dutch Olympians began their careers.
According to NOS Schaatsen, the auction, organized by NOC*NSF and the MatchWornShirt platform, included memorabilia from multiple Dutch Olympic athletes and raised a total of 275,345 euros. The funds are primarily directed towards the sports clubs connected to the athletes’ early development. For Leerdam, who is a prominent figure in Dutch speed skating, the designated beneficiary is IJsvereniging Pijnacker (IJVP), the ice skating club where she started.
Johan van Dam, chairman of IJVP, expressed gratitude while emphasizing the responsibility to use the funds wisely. Though the precise amount IJVP will receive is not yet determined, club officials are optimistic about the impact. Jacqueline van Winden, a board member, highlighted that the money would enable the club to expand its weekly skating training sessions for children at the De Uithof ice rink in The Hague, allowing more youngsters to experience the sport.
The identity of the buyer who purchased Leerdam’s suit has not been disclosed, but auction records indicate the bidder is based in the Netherlands.
