The 2024 NK Allround Speed Skatings Championships unfolded over the weekend at Thialf, Heerenveen, providing thrilling performances from some of the Netherlands' elite skaters. Leading the charge were Joy Beune, the reigning world champion, and Antoinette Rijpma-De Jong, both vying for the coveted national title.
Joy Beune entered the competition with high hopes, following her recent success at the world championships. Although she faced initial anxiety, which caused her to have a false start on the 500 meters, she managed to limit her deficit to Rijpma-De Jong, who took the lead after the first event. Beune's time on the 500 meters was respectable, at third place with 39.44 seconds, but was not enough to take the lead.
On the second event, the 3000 meters, Beune showcased her strength by clocking 4:01.03, successfully reducing the gap between herself and Rijpma-De Jong. The latter skated to 4:04.80, leaving her with only a slim 0.25-second lead after day one. Beune reflected on her performances, stating, “I was standing on my legs shaking,” highlighting her nerves but confidently adding, “This gap is bridgeable.”
Adding excitement to the passage of the skills showcased was Merel Conijn, who shined through with phenomenal results. She set the championship record with a time of 3:58.31 during the 3000 meters, impressively beating the competition with her strong performance. This feat not only secured her the gold medal for the event but also elevated her standings, pushing her to third place at the end of the first day. Conijn expressed her pride, saying, “I just wanted to perform my best and feel great about my time.”
With Rijpma-De Jong's initial victory on the 500 meters, she had hoped to create a larger gap between herself and the other competitors, but the day’s events led to intense competition for the final rankings. Fans were aware of the stakes involved, as the top three finishers will qualify for the European Championships slated for January 10-12, 2025, also hosted at Thialf.
Marijke Groenewoud, last year's runner-up, faced challenges during the first day, finishing fifth on both the 500 meters and 3000 meters, which left her with substantial ground to cover if she hopes to qualify for the upcoming championships. After completing her runs, she seemed to ponder her strategy, feeling the weight of her struggles, but remains determined for the concluding day. Her placing after three events leaves her 3.37 seconds behind the leader.
Over at the men's competition, Patrick Roest made his much-anticipated season debut, placing third on the 500 meters with 37.03 seconds. Although still tuning his form following recent health issues, Roest’s performance indicated he's on the right track as he aims for his third national title. He commented on his comeback, relaying the sense of relief and how he was glad to finally be back competing after his recovery.
The day ended with excitement building for the final round of events, including the women's 1500 meters and 5000 meters slated for the following day. A tight race for women’s titles was promised, as Beune needed to outperform Rijpma-De Jong significantly to claim her first national allround title, aiming for redemption after her near misses from previous years.
An intriguing storyline also loomed as Rijpma-De Jong was aiming for her sixth title, which would tie her with the legendary Stien Kaiser. The historical significance made every performance on the rink this weekend not just about the present, but also about setting legacies and records for the future, adding more allure to the NK Allround.
With all eyes on the last few events of the championship, the anticipation grows as the stakes have never been higher for all competitors. Fans and supporters alike look forward to seeing who will emerge victorious not only as the reigning national allround champion but also as participants heading toward the European Championships.
