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Skating Overview
It is believed that skating was developed as a way of crossing frozen lakes and waterways in Northern Europe over 3,000 years ago. The first skates were made by tying animal bone to regular footwear but a Scotsman invented the first all-iron skate in 1592.
During the 17th century figure skating became popular among the Dutch aristocracy whilst speed skating grew into a popular pastime in the British Isles.
The Winter Olympic programme features three skating disciplines, namely, Figure Skating, Speed Skating and Short Track Speed Skating.
Figure Skating appeared on the Summer Olympic programme in 1908 (as the event could be held inside) but took it’s rightful place on the programme of the inaugural Winter Games in 1924. There are now 4 events; singles for Men and Ladies, pairs and ice dance.
Speed Skating has been part of the programme since the 1st Winter Games, however only men were allowed to compete until 1960. The current Winter Olympic programme consists of ten events: 500m, 1000m, 1500m, 5000m for both woman and men, 3000m for women, 10,000m for men, and Team pursuit for women and men.
Short Track Speed Skating is an event where skaters race against each other not the clock. An elimination event, skaters require the use of tactics and strategy as well as athletic ability in order to succeed. Short Track Speed Skating first appeared on the 1992 Olympic programme and consists of eight events. Men and women compete in 500m, 1000m, and 1500m. There is also a 5000m relay for men, and a 3000m relay for women.