Speed Skating

Speed skating emerged on the canals of Holland as early as the 13th century — a time when iron skates on wooden soles served as a mode of transportation. Competitive racing is known to have been held in Holland as early as 1676. In the early 19th century, the Dutch shared the concept of speed skating with their European neighbours.

Speed skating has been part of the Olympic Games since the first Winter Games were held in Chamonix in 1924. Originally, only men took part in competition. At the Lake Placid 1932 Games, however, women’s speed skating was a demonstration event and became a full medal event at the Squaw Valley 1960 Olympic Winter Games.

Speed skating is the fastest human powered, non-mechanical aided sport in the world. Skaters can reach speeds of more than 60 kilometres (37 miles per hour).


taken from:
http://www.vancouver2010.com

In speed skating, as in life, you may think everything is lost... but never give up hope. Steven Bradbury wins the 1,000 Meter race at the 2002 Winter Olympics.