Collision Disrupts Olympic Dreams

During a race at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, Dutch speed skater Jop Wennemaas confronted Chinese competitor Lian Ziwen after a collision disrupted his chances for a medal. The incident occurred while they were both competing in the men’s 1,000 meters event, and they were placed 11th out of 15 when it happened.

As they approached the mandatory lane exchange after a turn, Lian veered toward the outside lane and made contact with Wenemar’s blade. Skaters on the outer track typically have the right of way in these situations. This detail has been noted by various outlets.

Following the race, Wennemaas was visibly angry. He raised his arm in frustration at the finish line and then pushed Lian when she came near. The crowd’s response was loud boos directed at Lian.

“I am devastated. My Olympic dream has been shattered. My heart is broken,” Wennemaas expressed, reflecting on the incident. It’s worth noting that he is the son of a former sprint world champion, Erben Wenemar.

Lian commented that the collision was unintentional, admitting that Wennemaas struck him shortly afterward but claiming he did not respond in kind. “I told him I’m sorry, and when he calms down, we can discuss this race,” he conveyed.

Commentator Carlton Kirby described the events as a series of “disasters” during the broadcast, suggesting it would have likely been Wenemaas’s Olympic record. He seemed to think Wenemaas knew he had a shot at something great.

Ultimately, officials disqualified Lian but allowed Wennemaas another attempt around 30 minutes later. However, by then, the ice had significantly deteriorated. When he skated solo, his time suffered, and he finished in fifth place, just 0.24 seconds shy of the bronze medal.

In the end, American skater Jordan Stoltz took home the gold, setting a new Olympic record at 1:06.28. Dutch skater Jenning de Vu secured the silver, while China’s Ning Zhongyan claimed bronze.