The Netherlands set a breathtaking new benchmark in short track speed skating on Friday, clocking 2 minutes and 35.339 seconds to break the mixed team relay world record during the ISU World Championships quarterfinals in Beijing. The quartet of Xandra Velzeboer, Michelle Velzeboer, Jens van't Wout, and Teun Boer captivated fans at the Capital Indoor Stadium, eclipsing Canada's previous record of 2:35.427 set at the same venue in December.
While the Dutch team dominated the ice, China's relay effort ended prematurely after skater Sun Long fell during competition, preventing the home team from advancing to the semifinals. The three-day event continues through Sunday, with global eyes now on Dutch skaters as strong contenders for gold.
The ISU Championships have drawn athletes from over 20 countries and regions, including notable performances from teams representing the Republic of Korea and Italy. Beijing's winter sports infrastructure remains in focus as global skaters test their limits at venues originally built for the 2022 Winter Olympics.
