Jillert Talsma will extend his speed skating career with a new commercial long-track team after activating an escape clause in his contract with Okay-Interfarms, where he had been a key member of the women’s marathon squad.
Schaatsen.nl, a Dutch sports news outlet, reports on Talsma’s transfer and the circumstances surrounding it.
Edward van Dijk, the team manager of Okay-Interfarms, expressed satisfaction that Talsma had committed for another winter period with the women’s team after winning the Marathon Cup. However, he was also aware that a change could occur due to an ‘escape clause’ embedded in Talsma’s contract since early in the season. This clause allowed Talsma to accept an offer from a commercial long-track team up to April 30.
Talsma explained that the timing of such a transfer this season was delayed because the Olympic Games commanded much attention from teams and athletes in the discipline. When he received a call from Jillert with an offer, Talsma welcomed the opportunity to explore his potential in long-track skating, even though it was difficult to inform Edward van Dijk of his decision to move on. The 25-year-old athlete acknowledged van Dijk’s disappointment but appreciated the freedom given to him to choose.
Regarding his adaptation to the new team, Talsma said his first encounters with his new teammates went smoothly, noting that many were already familiar faces. While recognizing that it will take time to build deeper connections, he already feels at home within the group. He did not have concerns about fitting in, although he noted that it is too early to predict exactly how the collaboration will develop.
Talsma values the chance to focus on both long-track and marathon disciplines simultaneously. While detailed plans have not yet been outlined, he expects the upcoming season to resemble the previous one, involving long-distance races, all-round events, and mass start competitions in addition to marathons.
