Irene Schouten, the celebrated three-time Olympic champion, is set to make her return to competitive marathon skating this Saturday, just two months after giving birth to her son, Dirk. The 32-year-old athlete, who hails from Hoogkarspel, took to Instagram to share her excitement: "I’m back in the pack! It feels amazing to be back on the ice after this period. Two months ago, my son was born, and now I can participate in my first competition. I’m really looking forward to it!" Schouten’s return has been the talk of the skating community, especially after her significant achievements at the Olympic Games and World Championships before her temporary retirement.
Schouten first announced her retirement from professional skating following her spectacular performance at the World Championships last year, where she secured three gold medals and one silver. She concluded her career on the competitive circuit on March 5, 2023, during the Marathon Cup finale, where she triumphed once again, ending on a high note. Her strategic timing to announce her return now, exactly one year before the upcoming Winter Games in Milan, adds to the anticipation surrounding her comeback. "I secretly hoped to be able to ride the last marathon, but being able to start now feels like a bonus," Schouten revealed during an interview with the NOS.
Returning to the ice wasn’t just about recapturing former glory for Schouten; it was also about overcoming the physical changes brought on by motherhood. Prior to her competition, she shared insights about her recovery process following childbirth. "Of course, I'm still building back my body and fitness, but I feel fit enough to participate positively. I’ve been blessed with a good delivery, and I was able to return to training quite quickly," she noted. Schouten emphasized her enjoyment of the process, stating, "I’m just enjoying the moment, and I fully prioritize being a good mother to my son, Dirk."
Postpartum recovery can be particularly challenging for athletes, but Schouten explained how she managed expectations. "Initially, I thought my condition would be completely gone, but I kept the skating technique intact. The core strength, after giving birth, took some time to regain. Every week gets progressively easier," she explained. Schouten trained hard after receiving clearance from her physiotherapist two weeks ago, marking her gradual return to form.
The upcoming marathon at Thialf, Heerenveen is gaining attention not only because it's her first race back but also because it will see her starting with a wildcard designation. Her team leader, Jillert Anema, expressed enthusiasm for her return, stating they will support her choices moving forward. "If she wants to race again, we’ll facilitate her as much as possible. We don’t want to pressure her during this important time," he remarked.
Even as Schouten prepares to enter the competitive world of skating again, she remains grounded. Rather than focusing solely on the prospect of returning to the long-track circuit, she insists she is concentrating on motherhood and fitting skating around her family life. "I want to be the best mother for Dirk and build up my skating gradually. I’m not thinking about competing on the long track right now," Schouten said with laughter during her interview.
Looking back at her illustrious career, Schouten has proven to be one of the most successful Netherlands Olympians. At the Beijing 2022 Olympics, she won three golds—at the 3000 meters, 5000 meters, and the mass start—as well as contributing to her team’s bronze medal victory in the team pursuit. Her accolades include ten World Championships and numerous national titles, hence her departure from the sport last year left significant shoes to fill.
Schouten’s anticipated return this weekend has ignited buzz around the skating community not only for her remarkable past performances but also for the potential resurgence she'll bring to marathon skating after her maternal hiatus. The upcoming marathon is scheduled to kick off at 19:30 local time, as spectators eagerly await her comeback on the ice.
While many are speculating whether this could lead to another long-term skating career, Schouten remains focused on enjoying her return for now. "I’m just excited to be back and see how it feels. My priority is to build my strength and enjoy the ride," she concluded, encapsulating the resilience and passion she holds for her sport. With expectations high and love for the sport evident, Irene Schouten’s return to marathon skating promises to be both inspiring and emotional—a reflection not only of her athletic prowess but also of her new role as mother.