February 2. Speed skating. Men. 1,500 meters:
1. Kirill Golubev (Russia) – 1:49.30
2. Martijn van Oosten (Netherlands) – 1:49.53
3. Junya Miwa (Japan) – 1:49.61
The second set of medals in men’s speed skating competition was awarded on February 2. 44 athletes from 16 countries have participated in the competition. The main contenders for top three places were athletes from Japan, Netherlands and Russia.
The competition was very tough. The gap among top three athletes was just 0.31 seconds. The fastest in 1500 meters distance was the Russian athlete Kirill Golubev. The Dutch athlete Martijn van Oosten was behind just for 0.23 and the Japanese Junya Miwa -0.31 seconds.
At the press conference the medalists looked tired but happy.
Kirill Golubev:
- Unexpected medal. This is my second Universiade, on the previous I won the silver medal. Before the tournament, I had an injury. I wasn’t sure if I should participate this time. I knew the 1,500m race would be challenging. I decided to go for it at the last moment.
Martijn van Oosten:
- I am surprised with my second place. It is a big competition where many strong athletes participate. It was a very nice race!
Junya Miwa:
- I am happy for this medal.
On February 3, Ladies will compete in 5,000m speed skating race, while men will do a 1,000m race.
