Speed skaters travel as fast as 30 mph on small, oval tracks. This exciting sport offers thrills for both skaters and spectators, and the combination of sharp blades and high speeds also adds a sense of danger. Participants skate closely together on the track and must balance well-honed skating skills with smart racing technique to perform at the highest levels.
History
According to World Short Track, the first short track events in North America took place in the early 20th century. Participants were inspired by the long-track speed skating events taking place in other parts of the world but were frustrated by a lack of long tracks in the U.S. and Canada. They began to practice speed skating in standard oval hockey rinks instead, and the first short track world championship took place in 1981. In 1988, skaters staged a demonstration of this sport at the winter Olympics, and short track became an official Olympic sport in 1992.
Events
Skaters take part in both individual and team events, including relay-style racing. Events take place at local clubs, as well as national and international championships each year. Racers compete over short and long distances, including 500, 1,000, 1,500 and 3,000 m events.
Equipment
Short track speed skaters rely on skates with very long, thin blades, which allow the skater to maximize speed and minimize friction with the ice. Manufacturers mount these blades on short, ankle-length boots to allow the skater to bend their body low to the ice. Skaters wear aerodynamic suits to lower wind resistance, as well as helmets, gloves and padding for safety.
Rink
The sport takes place on a 30 by 60 m rink, about the size of a standard ice hockey rink. Race officials use corner blocks to mark the inner corners of the track, and referees reposition these blocks as they get knocked out of place during a race. Each corner features heavy padding to minimize the risk of injury during falls or collisions.
Rules
Unlike long-track events, where only two skaters share the track at one time, short-track events often feature four to eight skaters. Each competitor chooses his placement along the track through a random draw. All international meets start with the 1,500 m race, then proceed through the 500, 1,000 and 3,000 m races in that order. Each skater can earn medals in an individual event, and also earns points based on his placement. Only those skaters with the highest total points are permitted to participate in the 3,000 m race on the final day of competition.
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