Bob de Jong

In 1995 and 1996, Bob de Jong won the World Junior Championships on account of his long distances; in 1996, he even set a senior World Record in the 3000 m. He has since excelled in the 5000 m and 10000 m at international championships. He won the 5000 m world title in 2001, and won his favorite distance, the 10000 m at the 1999, 2003 and 2005 World Championships. In addition to these titles, De Jong amassed 11 silver and bronze medals. Of 12 editions held between 1996 and 2009, De Jong has been on the 10000 m podium 10 times, being absent in 1996 and 2007. In 2006, he achieved his dream of winning Olympic gold in that same distance. Earlier, he had placed second in 1998 behind teammate Gianni Romme. De Jong’s 2002 Olympics were marked by mysteriously poor performances, uncharacteristically finishing in the back of the field in both the 5000 and 10000 m. De Jong also tried his hand at allround skating, finishing 7th in the 2005 World Championships. A consistent performer in the 5k/10k World Cup, he won the award in 2004, placing on the podium an additional 9 times. Bob de Jong, who has also won 6 national distance titles, is currently aiming to defend his title in Vancouver.

Personal Bests: 500 – 37.86 (2001); 1000 – 1:18.74 (1996); 1500 – 1:48.22 (2001); 5000 – 6:12.16 (2008); 10000 – 12:59.21 (2009).