Ard Schenk

Ard Schenk is a retired Dutch speed skater who dominated the sport in the early 1970s. Renowned for his powerful stride and exceptional all-round ability, he is considered one of the greatest speed skaters in history. His career is highlighted by three consecutive World Allround titles and a historic triple gold medal performance at the 1972 Winter Olympics.

Early life and career

Born in Anna Paulowna in the North Holland province, he was introduced to skating on the region's frozen canals. He joined the IJsvogels club in Haarlem and quickly rose through the junior ranks under the guidance of coach Leen Pfrommer. His early promise was confirmed when he won the national junior title, catching the attention of the Royal Dutch Skating Federation. Schenk made his international debut at the 1964 European Speed Skating Championships, but his breakthrough came in 1966 when he surprisingly captured his first European Allround Championship in Deventer, defeating established stars like Kees Verkerk.

Speed skating achievements

Schenk's peak coincided with the era of the legendary Friesinger and Kulikov rivalries, but he often prevailed through superior endurance. He utterly dominated the 1970-1971 season, sweeping the European, World Allround, and World Sprint championships, a feat rarely accomplished. His crowning achievement was at the 1972 Winter Olympics in Sapporo, where he won gold medals in the 1500, 5000, and 10,000 metre events, nearly adding a fourth in the 500 meters. This performance cemented his status alongside other Dutch greats like Lydia Skoblikova and Yvonne van Gennip in Olympic lore.

Post-skating career and legacy

After retiring in 1972, he remained a prominent figure in the sport, serving as a technical delegate for the International Skating Union at events like the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. He also worked as a respected television commentator for the NOS and later Eurosport, analyzing competitions such as the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano. His legacy is honored through the Ard Schenk Award, presented annually to the best Dutch speed skater, and his induction into the International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. His rivalry with Kees Verkerk and training under Leen Pfrommer are iconic chapters in the history of Dutch speed skating.

Personal life

He is the son of a Jewish mother who survived World War II by going into hiding, a background he has spoken about publicly. Following his skating career, he pursued business interests and lived for a time in Norway. He has been married twice and has children. Schenk maintains a connection to sports through occasional media appearances and ceremonial roles at events organized by the Royal Dutch Skating Federation.

Category:Dutch speed skaters Category:Olympic gold medalists for the Netherlands Category:1972 Winter Olympics gold medalists