Annette Gerritsen (NED, Speed Skating)

As a former sprint hurdler, I'm attracted to sports that showcase natural speed. Having lived in a tropical country all my life, the winter sports is a foreign concept (perhaps because of the Mighty Ducks series I've watched as a kid) Speed skating is an interesting discipline. The prospect of going all out on an ice track wearing those razor-sharp skates is a fascinating thought.

Gerritsen in full speed. (Photo from UweFan)

Annette Gerritsen is an elite speed skater. The Dutchwoman is a former World Junior record holder in the 500m, with a time of 38.57s. Gerritsen is a veteran of many international campaigns, having won medals at the world's highest stage, when she snared the silver at the 1000m at the Vancouver Winter Olympics. 

In two editions of the World Sprint Championships, Annette had brought home a bronze (2008) and a silver (2011). Likewise, she reached the podium for both the 500m and the 1000m at the World Single Distance Championships in 2008.

Gerritsen immediately made an impact upon turning professional in 2005.That same year, she won bronze medals at national level championships. Her performances earned her a ticket to the World Sprint Championships, her first ever appearance at a major international.

Source:
Annette's Wikipedia Profile