Back on the podium: Irene Schouten skates to silver at 3,000 meters during the World Championships

At the World Championship distances, Irene Schouten had to settle for second place. The 30-year-old skater from Hoogkarspel rode a strong ride on the 3,000 meters, but had to tolerate Ragne Wiklund. The Olympic champion at this distance took silver with a time of 3:57.40.

Schouten opted for a quick opening in the stage. Her opponent Magdalena Czyszczoń didn’t have much in the way. For a moment the track record seemed to be in sight, but halfway through she had to leave that schedule for what it is. Schouten kept up the pace and drove to 3 minutes, 57 seconds and 40 hundredths.

Schouten recently indicated that she is going through a tough period mentally. After the 3,000 meters at the NK distances, she burst into tears after taking third place. “Lately it’s been a long fight, fighting against myself”. The Olympic champion in the 3,000, 5,000 and mass start therefore took a break for a few weeks to recharge for the World Championship distances.

The World Championship distances will take place in Heerenveen and will be held until Sunday. Schouten is still in action on the 5,000 meters, mass start and the team pursuit.

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