Velzeboer and Sarault Command 1000m Semi-Finals in Milano

The women’s 1000m at the Winter Games delivered drama, control and controversy in equal measure as Xandra Velzeboer (Netherlands) and Courtney Sarault (Canada) stamped their authority on the semi-finals at the Milano Ice Skating Arena.

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With a place in the A Final on the line, both skaters led from the front – but the path to qualification was far smoother for some than others. Velzeboer set the early pace in the first semi-final, keeping a firm grip on her track position. Crossing the line in 1:29.514, she sealed victory after leading virtually the entire race.

Behind her, the contest turned chaotic. Belgium’s Hanne Desmet attempted an inside pass on Republic of Korea star Kim Gil-li, but the move ended in contact, sending both skaters down.

Kim Advanced Following a Review

Following a review, Kim was advanced to the A Final. The collision also opened the door for Gong Li of China, who stayed upright and composed to finish second. She held off Canada’s Florence Brunelle in the closing stages to secure her place in the medal race.

The second semi-final was more measured but no less intense. Courtney Sarault controlled proceedings with calm authority, managing the tempo from the front and never allowing the chasing pack to disrupt her rhythm.
Italy’s veteran Arianne Fontana kept her medal hopes alive on home ice, fending off teammate Elisa Confortola in the latter stages to progress.

With Velzeboer’s front-running confidence and Sarault’s composed race management, the stage is set for a fiercely competitive A Final, and it’s one that could hinge on split-second decisions as much as raw speed.