INNSBRUCK, AUS (January 19, 2012) – Team USA’s short track athletes had outstanding performances today at the Youth Olympic Games in Innsbruck. Thomas Insuk Hong finished 4th in his 500m (42.782) and Sarah Warren finished 4th in her 500m (47.033).
Hong had a great race and crossed the line in 4th with an impressive time of 42.782. Two skaters from Korea lead the race – Min Yoon Su finished 1th (42.417) and Jun Lim Hyo finished 2th (42.482). Xu Hongzhi (CHI) finished third with a time of 42.637.
“I’ve never skated this fast, so I think I did pretty well as my times show. It was above what I thought I could do,” said Hong after today’s 500m men’s final. “It feels great to be here representing Team USA. It’s such a fun experience meeting and racing against new and different people, I just love it,” he added.
Sarah Warren finished 4th in the ladies 500m today with a time of 47.033. Suck Hee Shim (KOR) took first at 44.122, followed by Aili Xu (CHN) in second with 44.593, and Nicole Martelli (ITA) taking third with 46.390.
“I absolutely loved competing, said Warren. “The crowd really got me pumped up and made the experience so enjoyable! I honestly raced to not try to place in a certain position but enjoy the experience and race because I love skating.”
“This is the best experience of my life and I will never forget it. I have made so many friends that will be life long friends as well as learned lessons here that can help me for the future,” added Warren.
"We had a great day of racing, but still came one short of a medal for both our skaters. Thomas finished a really good 4th place in his a final behind some tough competition. he was right there the whole way, but didn't have many chances to advance his position," said Team USA Coach Joe Rohraff.
"Sarah won her B final, and with a penalty in the A Final, that moved her overall position to 4th. Both Thomas and Sarah had personal best times by a very large margin in the 500meter. Even though we didn't medal, our skaters are very pleased with the performance, and so am I," he added.
For extended results from today’s 500m event, please visit http://www.innsbruck2012.com/en/sports/disciplines/short_track_speed_skating
Youth Olympic Games Speedskating Event Schedule
(includes events Team USA is scheduled for competition. All times CET)
Long Track
January 20
11:00 Women’s mass start
Short Track
January 21
17:35 Mixed Team Relay Semifinals
19:40 Mixed Team Relay Finals