Sophie Westenbroek, the first Dutch woman to win the national marathon speed skating title and a dedicated figure in the sport, passed away on June 11 after complications related to lung problems and a recent cycling accident.
Schaatsen.nl, a Dutch sports news outlet, reported on Westenbroek’s career and her contributions to speed skating.
Westenbroek made history in 1974 at the Jaap Edenbaan by becoming the first woman to compete for and win the national marathon title in the Netherlands. Although primarily a long-track speed skater, she was highly competitive on the marathon circuit and distinguished herself by breaking away from her rivals in the closing laps. Her victory was described as a dominant performance by the Leeuwarder Courant, noting that she outclassed her competitors.
Born in Steggerda on May 26, 1948, Westenbroek was considered a major talent in the sport. In 1973 she won the IJsselcup, notably defeating the renowned Atje Keulen-Deelstra. From 1974 to 1980, she was part of the national core team alongside notable skaters such as Annie Borckink, Sippy Tigchelaar, and Sijtje van der Lende, a lifelong friend with whom she began racing in 1963. Together, they progressed through the Frisian selection and also pursued laboratory analyst studies while competing at the highest level.
Westenbroek balanced her skating career with a profession as a medical analyst in a hospital setting. Known for her perseverance and work ethic, she did not compete in the Olympic Games but recorded significant results in 1975, including a silver medal at the national allround championships, an eighth-place finish at the world allround championships, and tenth at the sprint world championships. Across her marathon career, she won thirteen races in total.
After retiring from competitive skating, Westenbroek continued to contribute to the sport as a club trainer for Hardrijders Club Heerenveen (HCH) and STGiethoorn. Alongside Sijtje van der Lende, she coached the amateur group at Thialf and remained a devoted member of this community. She was affectionately known there as “the chairperson of the board that did not exist,” reflecting her informal leadership and dedication.
Westenbroek came from a large family with fourteen siblings. She married Harrie Piest 44 years ago, and they had two children and three grandchildren. A recent gathering of former top skaters, known as De Schoverlingen, paid tribute to her memory. Her funeral service was held on June 18 in Oudehaske.