WILLEMSTAD--”Skating Skol of Korsou” made an impressive international debut by winning six medals at the Pan American Speed Skating Championships for beginners and school categories. The Curaçao school competed in the event for the first time, facing more than 1,200 athletes from 24 countries, according to the organisation.
One of the standout performers was Gianelle Dirksz, who dominated the girls' 7-8 age category by claiming two gold medals. She captured first place in both the 200-metre race and 40-metre reaction race.
In the same age group, Martina Ojeda earned a silver medal in the skill’s competition, adding to Curaçao's tally.
Coach Francisco Ojeda also delivered an outstanding performance in the 13-and-over category. He won gold in the 40-metre reaction race, setting a new men's championship record of 6.586 seconds. He added a second gold medal in the skills competition and secured bronze in the 1,000-metre event.
“Skating Skol of Korsou” described the results as particularly remarkable because the team was unable to train on the competition track before the official practice sessions and races began.
Following this successful debut, the school has announced plans to return to the tournament next year with the goal of competing in both the semi-professional and professional divisions.
