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Short Track Speed Skating Explained
First presented in the 1992 Winter Olympics, short track speed skating is a relative newcomer to the Winter Games. A popular sport in Europe since the 19th century, it did not become the popular sport it is today in North America until after the turn of the century. In it's beginning at the Winter Olympics it was a duo event with the long track, where the same competitors competed in both events. It wasn't until athletes understood that for each of these events a different set of abilities and strategy was employed. Because of the abilities of competitors today most athletes will focus on one sport in order to achieve success so it was only natural to separate the two events and competitors to choose which event they wanted to participate in.
The biggest difference between speed skating and short track speed skating other than the length of the track is that in long track speed skating a competitor races with one other participant to get the fastest time. In short track skating there are up to 6 other racers at the starting line together and you then race to be the first across the finish line. The course itself is 364.57 feet, which is 111.12 meters around, defined by small pylons made of rubber placed on the ice. The course has large, thick foam padding around it to reduce the possibility of serious injury to a competitor in the event of a crash. The likely hood of a crash is significant due to the body contact with other racers (rules do limit this contact) and the speed that can be generated. A skater can reach speeds of above 30 mph (48.3kph). Also, just as in long track skaters race in a counter- clockwise direction.
Short track race distances are 500m, 1000m, 1500m and the 5000m for men and 500m, 1000m, 1500m and 3000m for the women. Both men and women also have a relay race of 3000m for the women and 5000m for the men.
The format for short track speed skating is the competition begins with 32 athletes. Small individual races called heats with 4-6 competitors racing at once are run. Normally it is the first two of this race that will advance to another round, with the other two being eliminated from the competition. This continues until there are just 4 racers left for the final race. Times are kept in short track speed skating, but are not very important, as the winner is the person who crosses the finish line first.
To be successful at short track in addition to being in great shape physically you must also be in great shape mentally. Since there are 3 others you are racing, strategy is a very important aspect to becoming the winner. You have to be able to pick the time and place you want to make a move to put yourself in the lead at the finish.
In both the men's and women's short track relays it is a two day competition that includes a semi-final and a final. Eight teams are divided into two separate races (heats) of 4 skaters. Advancement to the finals is the reward of the top two teams in each semi-final race.
Short track skating has become an increasing popular sport. Most feel this is because of the speeds and the potential of numerous crashes during a day of competition. Short track has been referred to as roller derby on ice or even NASCAR on ice, because of the chaotic appearance, crashes and the strategies used in this high-speed event. We are looking forward to watching Apolo Anton Ohno and the US short track skating team compete at the 2010 BC Winter Games!
About the Author
I'm a Cheese Head from Oconomowoc, WI which is about 30 miles west of Milwaukee. I'm an avid Wisconsin sports fan. I especially like following the Milwaukee Brewers. In addition to local sports, I also love the Olympics and have a website that talks about short Track Speed Skating in detail...
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Brooks Womens Thermo Boy Short $35 The ultimate baselayer for cold-weather runs. Stay toasty and comfortable by slipping these super-soft thermal boy shorts on underneath your favorite running pants. • Fit: Fitted • Knit compression fabric • Warmer, brushed fabric on backside • Flat locked seams provent chafing • 3½" inseamBrooks Equilibrium Fabric: Main Body: 84% polyester/16% spandex; Back Panel: 88% moisture-transfer polyester/12% spandex |
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Brooks Womens Glycerin Short $40 Camouflaged as a hip fashion short that sits just below the natural waistline, this last little number just might be what choose for your next race. The stretch-woven shell paired with a light stretch waist and side panel offer excellent range of motion and comfort. Fit: Semi-fitted 3½" inseam Wide moisture-moving waistband Envelope-style back pocket Soft inner liner Want to see how these shorts compare to the rest of our collection? Check out our Women's Bottoms Guide.Brooks Equilibrium Fabric: Main Body: Epiphany Stretch Woven (86% polyester/14% LYCRA spandex); Splice: 85% moisture-transfer polyester/15% spandex; Liner: 88% nylon/12% LYCRA spandex mesh |
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