WILLEMSTAD – Skating Skol of Korsou made an impressive international debut by winning six medals at the Pan American Speed Skating Championships for beginners and school categories.
The Curaçao-based skating school competed in the event for the first time, facing more than 1,200 athletes from 24 countries, according to the organization.
One of the standout performers was Gianelle Dirksz, who dominated the girls' 7-8 age category by claiming two gold medals. She captured first place in both the 200-meter race and the 40-meter reaction race.
In the same age group, Martina Ojeda earned a silver medal in the skills competition, adding to Curaçao's medal tally.
Coach Francisco Ojeda also delivered an outstanding performance in the 13-and-over category. He won gold in the 40-meter reaction race, setting a new men's championship record of 6.586 seconds. He added a second gold medal in the skills competition and secured bronze in the 1,000-meter event.
Skating Skol of Korsou described the results as particularly remarkable because the team was unable to train on the competition track before the official practice sessions and races began.
Following the successful debut, the school has announced plans to return to the Pan American Championships next year, with the goal of competing in both the semi-professional and professional divisions.