Initially a national level long track speed skater, Gretha Smit turned to marathon skating. She proved very successful, winning eight national titles (four on artificial ice, four on natural ice), winning the Alternative Elfstedentocht twice, and placing second in the real Elfstedentocht of 1997. After trying out at 5000 m in late 2001, Smit won both the 3000 m and 5000 m at the Dutch Olympic Trials. In Salt Lake City, she won a silver medal in the 5000 m, skating a Dutch record that still stands as of 2009. In subsequent years, Smit placed third at both long distances at the 2003 World Single Distance Championships, and second in both races at the 2004 edition. That same year, Smit also competed in international allround tournaments, finishing 7th at the World Championships. She did qualify for the Dutch team for 2006 Olympics, but was unable to compete in the 5000 m when Dutch skaters failed to gain enough start positions for that event. Frequently hampered by leg injuries, Smit failed to qualify for international events in the next years, and announced her retirement in 2009. Smit’s sister, Jenita Hulzebosch-Smit is also a former marathon skater, and has won two Dutch titles in the 5000 m (Gretha won three).
Personal Bests: 500 – 42.18 (2004); 1000 – 1:28.94 (1994); 1500 – 2:02.02 (2004); 3000 – 4:03.80 (2007); 5000 – 6.49.22 (2002).
Netherlands