February 1. Men’s speed skating. 500 meters:
1. Cha Minkyu (Korea) – 70.40 sec. (35.16 + 35.24)
2. Nakao Koto (Japan) – 70.76 sec. (35.35 + 35.40)
3. Kim Youngjin (Korea) – 71.13 sec. (35.63 + 35.49)
43 athletes from 15 countries competed on a 500m distance. The athletes did two laps (one on the outer side of the circle, other on the inside). The day before the start, many experts thought Roman Krech from Kazakhstan would probably win. However, during the race an athlete from Korea crossed the way of Krech. Roman lost time and did not win a medal.
Cha Minkyu from Korea became the champion. He was the fastest in both of the laps.
After the race had ended, the athletes shared their impressions.
Cha Minkyu:
- I am happy. I was very anxious before the start but now I am glad with myself.
Nakao Koto:
- Thanks everyone. I am glad to have competed with such strong speed skaters. I am surprised though that Roman Krech only came seventh.
Kim Youngjin:
- I am happy with the result and would like to thank my teammates and coaches.
Tomorrow, men will have a 1500m race.
