The so-called Visa Award is an award for the most inspiring moment at the Olympic and Paralympic Games that reflects the values of friendship, acceptance and inspiration. The other winner was the Ukrainian Paralympic team. That left the money to go to the National Paralympic Committee.
Verbij received the prize for his race in the 1000 meters during the Beijing Games. In order not to ruin his opponent’s chances of a medal in the stage, Laurent Dubreuil, Verbij gave the Canadian the lead at the intersection when both skaters were almost next to each other at the exit of the bend. His own chances for a medal were lost. Debreuil took silver behind Thomas Krol, Verbij finished in thirtieth place.
According to the Dutchman, people have told him that he should have gone for his own chances. “You always wonder if you’re making the right split-second decision, but I’m also very proud that people all over the world voted for this award and appreciate my decision. It makes me feel like I made the right decision. I think sportsmanship should take precedence over personal success and that is even more important at the Games, where there are many individual athletes,” said Verbij.
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