National Ice Centre and NISA launch Speed Skating Performance Programme

The creation of the Performance Programme follows UK Sport’s decision to cease funding the GB Short Track Speed Skating World Class Programme in the Beijing Olympic cycle, except for 2017 triple world champion Elise Christie who will receive a medal support plan.

Martin Ingham, Chief Executive at the National Ice Centre said: “With the recent growth within British Speed Skating, it’s essential to maintain the future success of the sport internationally and domestically.

In partnership with NISA, and through recommendation from GB Short Track, we aim to create an elite training environment that will nurture and prepare skaters to compete on the Olympic and World stage.” Olympians Kathryn Thomson and Farrell Treacy are amongst those planning to continue to train in Nottingham.

Ingham continues: “With our world class coaching and facilities, we’re hoping the programme will attract not only the best British skaters, but elite skaters from around the globe.”

Tamara Cvijanovic, Sports Development Manager at the National Ice Centre said: “We’ve worked closely with GB Short Track over the past 18 years, proudly supporting them to produce 18 Olympians so as a venue, we’re tremendously excited at the prospect of delivering an elite environment that gives speed skaters the opportunity to achieve their ambitions”.

Michelle Draper, CEO at NISA said: “NISA are pleased to be working in Partnership with the National Ice Centre who will continue to help us support our Short Track Speed Skating athletes in the UK. We look forward to seeing this elite programme support our athletes in preparation for the next winter Olympic cycle.”

Stewart Laing, GB Short Track Speed Skating Performance Director said: Everyone involved at GB Short Track are hugely thankful to the National Ice Centre and NISA for providing this programme. The National Ice Centre has been vital to the success of our sport and it is pleasing to see their commitment and passion for Speed Skating continue to grow.

It has been a challenging period for the sport, the Speed Skating Performance Programme is a real boost for not only the current GB Short Track skaters but future young skates with big ambitions. I look forward with great excitement to see the programme and the athletes realise their potential.

The Speed Skating Performance Programme is a full-time programme for athletes by invitation only which will commence following the closure of the World Class Programme next March. For more information, please contact: Tamara Cvijanovic, [email protected] or Jon Eley, [email protected]