Valérie Maltais Claims Silver in Germany Mass Start Speed Skating
Valérie Maltais delivered an impressive performance at the World Cup season finale in Inzell, Germany, claiming the silver medal in mass start speed skating. This achievement marks a significant conclusion to her season and sets a positive tone ahead of the upcoming Olympic Games.
Race Highlights
During the mass start, Maltais strategically remained within the main pack for most of the race. As the final lap approached, she made her move, closely trailing the Dutch skater Marijke Groenewoud, who won the race. Maltais crossed the finish line just over half a second later.
American athlete Mia Manganello secured third place after a fierce battle with Canadian Ivanie Blondin.
Maltais’ Reflection on the Race
Post-race, Maltais expressed satisfaction with her performance. “I was safe in everything I did, just as I wanted,” she mentioned in an interview. She illustrated that her patience, waiting to see how the race unfolded, was crucial. With the Olympics approaching, this experience boosts her confidence.
Despite finishing second, she acknowledged that she could not break into the top three overall in the World Cup rankings. However, with two silver medals in mass start events this season, she finished fourth overall in the World Cup standings. “It’s extremely positive! I’m proud and have learned a lot this year,” she added.
Team Success and Other Competitions
Later in the day, Béatrice Lamarche teamed up with Ivanie Blondin and Carolina Hiller-Donnelly to achieve silver in the team sprint. They set a reference time of 1:26.84 in the second wave but fell short to the Dutch team, who clocked 1:25.52. The German team finished third, over two seconds behind.
Lamarche also competed in the 500 meters but finished in 10th place with a time of 37.93 seconds. The race was won by Polish skater Kaja Ziomek-Nogal.
Future Competitions
As the long track speed skating events are scheduled to begin on February 7 at the Milan-Cortina Olympic Games, Maltais looks forward to competing in the mass start event. The women’s 3000 meters will kick off at the Milano Speed Skating Stadium during the Games.
