Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Burn baby, burn!

Ah, speed skating. I gotta admit theirs something special about having 20 and 30 somethings racing around an oval rink at 50 clicks per hour in spandex. Maybe, its that they look like superheros (i.e., the Flash) battling it out for ice supremacy? Over the years their have been some chaotic battles between international powerhouses. DQs and controversies aside, its a marvel to see what humankind is capable of with the latest in nanotechnology.

For the upcoming Olympics all eyes are on speed skating superstar Shani Davis. He will skate in all 5 individual events this year but has mysteriously opted-out of the team rally...Davis holds the world record in the 1,000 and 1,500 meter courses.

Shifting to the Orient, former speed skating champ Hiroyasu Shimizu failed to qualify for the games. Shimizu last medaled at the Nagano games, taking home gold in the 500 meter rally. The 35 year old veteran has lost much of her finesse, stamina, and power over years of wear-and-tear. Oh, the woes of aging...

Regardless, this year's speed skating events are going to be awesome. Speed, grace, balance, and a little bit of grit thrown in there while thousands cheer from the stands. What more could you ask for?

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