Canadian skater Christine Nesbitt failed to defend her 2010 gold medal by finishing in ninth place in the women’s 1000 m speed skating event.
The Feb.13. event saw Hong Zhang of China take the gold, while the Netherlands took the silver and bronze.
Nesbitt was clearly disappointed following her skate. She has had a tough season, and has not been exhibiting the same amount of skill or speed.
She skated nearly a full second faster than in her gold medal performance in 2010, but it was not enough to beat out a very competitive field of athletes.
Three other Canadians competed in the event. Kaylin Irvine placed 18th, and narrowly missed a crash when her competitor fell in the race.
Kali Christ placed 21st, and Brittany Schussler placed 30th.
The women will get another opportunity to compete in the 1500 m speed skating event on Feb.16.
Watch Nesbitt’s winning skate from 2010:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsGmBHQY90M
