Zoey is an up and coming skater who races on the Provincial circuit. She most recently raced in Milton in January in which she placed first in her category after going undefeated all day. She won both 400m heats and finals along with her 800m. After going under 60 seconds in the 400m for the first time earlier this season, she is already down to 55 seconds. We asked her a few questions after her meet.
Q: How long have you been speedskating and how did you get started doing it?
This is my 3rd year speed skating. I saw it at the last Olympics and I really liked skating fast at Canskate lessons so I asked my Mom if I could try speed skating.
Q: You recently had a meet in Milton in which you won your category. Tell us about the meet.
I had a really good day. I had a lot of fun and was lucky in my races. In my third 400, I had a great race and took off 2 full seconds.
Q: Once you won a few of your races in the morning, how did you deal with the pressure of the final races knowing that the other skaters would have their eye on you.
I was nervous, but tried not to think about the other racers too much. I just tried my best.
Q: Good results don’t come overnight. How have you progressed over the last year in your training and your racing?
I have tried to listen to coach Mike and keep working on my cross-overs. My ankle bend is coming a bit easier now with some practice. Mike is still telling me to try to do one more crossover on each turn.
Q: What is your favorite part about speed skating?
The races and getting to go fast.
Q: With the Olympics coming up, which events do you look forward to watching and why?
Short track speed skating because it’s fun to watch.
Q: Do you have any goals that you are working towards?
More cross-overs and leaning more. As I keep practicing, it gets a bit easier to do.
Q:What would you say to someone watching speedskating at the Olympics and who might want to try?
Speed skating is lots of fun and you should try it!
