MILWAUKEE, WI (December 15, 2011) – Racing continued at the Pettit National Ice center today with the country’s top skaters competing for the U.S. National Championship title in the 1000m distance.

Reigning 1000m World Cup Champion Heather Richardson (High Point, N.C.) topped the ladies podium today posting a time of 1:15.51, followed by Brittany Bowe (Ocala, FL) at 1:16.27, and Kelly Gunther (Clinton Township, MI) in third with 1:17.62. Richardson also secured the 2012 U.S. Sprint Championship title with today’s win.

“I was really excited with a (Pettit National Ice Center) personal record, and almost a track record today,” said Richardson after her race.

Olympic Champion Shani Davis (Chicago, IL) won today’s 1000m title with a time of 1:08.42, followed by Brian Hansen (Glenview, IL) in second with 1:09.29, and Tucker Fredricks (Janesville, WI) posting 1:09.91.

“I’m happy to come away with a victory in the 1000m at the U.S. Championships today, and I’m happy that my skating is improving a little bit. I look forward to the remaining parts of the season, hopefully I can finish the season strong,” said Davis.

Fredricks’ podium today, coupled with his win in yesterday’s 500m, secured the 2012 Sprint Championship title. “Going into this week after three hard weeks of racing and traveling, my body wasn’t feeling very good, but yesterday the skating came around and the speed was just there. I’m really excited where I’m at right now,” said Fredricks. “I’m excited to get back into training and hopefully peaking for the World Sprints and World Single Distance Championships.”

Racing at the Pettit continues on Saturday, December 17, with the Ladies & Men’s 1500m beginning at 9:30 am (CST). The 2012 U.S. Long Track Championships conclude on Sunday, December 18, with the Ladies 5000m and Men's 10,000m events. Racing begins at 9:30am (CST). Admission is free.

Following Sunday’s events, U.S. Speedskating will crown the 2012 Allround Champions and overall National Champions for men and women, as well as announcing the 2011-12 Winter World Cup team.