Yeah, what’s good? So let’s talk about this speedskating ish. AMERICA IS THE SHIT. *insert 18 American flag emojis.* There is no more you need to know than that. You think I’m playing? These United States have won the second most speedskating medals in the history of the Winter Games (67). Only the Netherlands *throws tomato* has won more with an overwhelming 105 medals.
How to watch short track speed skating at the Winter Olympics: A guide to understanding and appreciating the sport
What time is short track speedskating on at the Olympics? Plus all the rules, streaming information, listings, and more you need.
Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images
Now, listen. America happened to not do shit at all in the 2014 Winter Olympics. But why you talking bout the past? Right. Anyway, hater. Team USA is thought to be ready to get on that podium this year. Joey Mantia should medal in the mass start, back in the Olympics for the first time since the Great Depression. Mantia is the reigning world champion and is a thought to medal in the 1500m.
For the women’s team, Heather Bergsma comes in with some of the best odds to medal behind a dominant Netherlands team. The four-time world champ didn’t medal in 2014 but is the reigning world champion in two events: the 1000m and 1500m.
What time and how can I watch?
- Saturday, Feb. 10, Women’s 3,000 meter, 6 a.m.
- Sunday, Feb. 11, Men’s 5,000 meter, 2 a.m.
- Monday, Feb. 12, Women’s 1,500 meter, 7:30 a.m.
- Tuesday, Feb. 13, Men’s 1,500 meter, 6 a.m.
- Wednesday, Feb. 14, Women’s 1,000 meter, 5 a.m.
- Thursday, Feb. 15, Men’s 10,000 meter, 6 a.m.
- Friday, Feb. 16, Women’s 5,000 meter, 6 a.m.
- Sunday, Feb. 18, Men’s team pursuit qualifications, 6 a.m.
- Sunday, Feb. 18, Women’s 500 meter, 6 a.m.
- Monday, Feb. 19, Women’s team pursuit qualifications, 6 a.m.
- Monday, Feb. 19, Men’s 500 meter, 6 a.m.
- Wednesday, Feb. 21, Men’s team pursuit finals, 6 a.m.
- Wednesday, Feb. 21, Women’s team pursuit finals, 6 a.m.
- Friday, Feb. 23, Men’s 1,000 meter, 5 a.m.
- Saturday, Feb. 24, Men’s mass start, 6 a.m.
- Saturday, Feb. 24, Women’s mass start, 6 a.m.
All times listed in Eastern. NBCOlympics.com will have live coverage of all the events.
Why should I quit my job and become a lifelong devotee of speedskating?
Well, son. I’ll tell ya. If NASCAR on Ice is something that gets your blood pumping, this is the sport for you. Many races aren’t that long, and they can also bring the excitement of a good track race.
What are the rules of speedskating? Follow-up: What is the weirdest rule of speedskating?
Everyone gets set up from a draw. The draw and skating order is based on how well you did in previous races, and if you sucked, then you’ll be dealt with after the adults have fun. During the start, if you aren’t there when your name is called you’re disqualified. Once skaters get to the starting line, they cannot have their skates touching or ahead of the line, nor can skaters touch the ice before the start.
If you mess up any of that or get in a skating position before the word “ready” is announced, it’s a false start. When the race starts, skaters must change lanes when they interact with the crossing straight near the finish area. You win when you cross the line at the finish first.
What can I talk about to impress the speedskating enthusiast in my life?
I mean, just know who these people are? I don’t know. Ain’t no real magic behind speedskating. Just be faster than the other people, and get that glide well when you comin’ round them turns.
Whose jersey should I buy?
Just get hype for the folks listed above. And if you bout it, bout it and don’t think he’s too old. Root for 35-year-old Shani Davis, who made his fifth Olympics this year.
What is the sport’s AMERICA RATING?
Americans are expected to get a few medals and do well. But, like, they ain’t bout to beat up on the Netherlands.
What’s the best GIF I can watch from speedskating?
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