Dutch speed skater Jutta Leerdam faced a significant setback in her pursuit of a place at the upcoming Winter Olympics due to a crash during the Dutch Olympic Trials on Friday. Competing in the 1000-meter final, Leerdam fell on the second bend and was unable to complete the race.
With this incident, fellow skaters Femke Kok and Suzanne Schulting secured their spots for the Milano Cortina Olympics by finishing first and second, respectively. Despite this disappointment, there remains hope for Leerdam, as she may still be selected for the national team by the selection committee. A decision on her potential inclusion is expected by January 1 or January 4.
Leerdam, who previously competed in the 2022 Winter Games in Beijing and won a silver medal in the 1000 meters, remains optimistic about her chances. She has consistently performed well this season, achieving top placements in World Cup events. “I’ve won the past World Cups. I’ve always been at least in the top two at the world level,” Leerdam remarked after the race. She expressed confidence that her overall performance, including her skating prior to the fall, will be taken into account.
As the Dutch Olympic trials continue through December 30, Leerdam is also set to compete in the 500 meters, potentially impacting her Olympic ambitions. Her determination and prior successes provide a glimmer of hope as she aims for another chance to represent her country on the Olympic stage.