Short tracker Friso Emons was honored on Tuesday evening in Tilburg for winning a gold medal at the Winter Olympics. Dozens of fans gathered along the Ireen Wüst track to put the short tracker in the spotlight.
He received a special prize from mayor Fleur Gräper and councilor Maarten van Asten. Members of IJsclub Tilburg gave him a warm applause when he appeared, writes Omroep Tilburg.
He is a great example for many young short trackers. they hope to one day achieve what Emons achieved in Milan. There he won gold in the relay together with his teammates.
After the ceremony, he took plenty of time for his fans. Photos were taken and he signed helmets and shirts with a marker. Supporters also had the opportunity to hold his gold medal and feel for themselves how heavy it is.
For the top athlete, the turnout felt overwhelming. “It’s nice to see that the sport is so alive,” Emons said. “In Milan you live in a bubble. Only when you come home do you notice how many people have sympathized. That is something magical that you don’t often experience.”
Ambitious
Achieving gold at the games is an incentive for Emons. “In four years’ time there will be another Winter Olympics. But first let’s land after this special period. Hopefully we will be there again.”
After the festive welcome, Emons also completed a lap of honor during the match between Tilburg Trappers and Füchse Duisburg.
