Beune Dominates 3,000m, Leerdam Upsets Kok in Salt Lake City World Cup
Salt Lake City, Utah – November 16, 2024 – Antoinette Beune of the Netherlands delivered a commanding performance in the women’s 3,000 meters, securing victory at the ISU World Cup in Salt Lake City. Meanwhile, a stunning upset unfolded in the women’s 1,000 meters, where Femke Leerdam also of the Netherlands edged out reigning champion Brittney Kok, claiming the gold medal.
These results mark a significant shift in the competitive landscape as the speed skating season progresses, with Beune solidifying her position as a force in the longer distances and Leerdam demonstrating her ability to challenge Kok’s dominance in the 1,000m. The Salt Lake City world Cup serves as a crucial stepping stone for athletes preparing for the World Single distances Championships in February and ultimately, the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina.
Beune clocked a winning time of 4:02.83 in the 3,000m, leaving Ragne Wiklund of Norway in second place with 4:04.91 and Marijke Groenewoud of the Netherlands taking bronze in 4:05.48.The performance underscores Beune’s consistency and tactical acumen, establishing her as a top contender for championship titles.
The 1,000m race delivered a surprise as Leerdam finished with a time of 1:15.49, narrowly defeating Kok, who finished in 1:15.62. Jutta Leerdam of the Netherlands secured the bronze medal with a time of 1:16.01. The outcome signals a potential changing of the guard in the event,with Leerdam emerging as a serious threat to Kok’s long-held reign.
