After a week of training in Hungary, the Hamelin brothers arrived today in Turin for the third short track speed skating World Cup of the season.
Having had quality training sessions in Budapest, Charles and Francois are very satisfied with their stay. The boys are now perfectly adapted to the conditions in Europe and the jet lag is gone for good. They landed in Italy to begin the final step before the Olympics. The stakes are high as the World Cups 3 and 4 will be serving as qualifying events for individual races as well as for the relay. The Canadian team will have the opportunity to qualify for up to three skaters for each distance in addition to providing a spot for the relay. While François will compete in the 1500m and relay events, Charles will be doing all distances with a clear chance to take home the gold in every one of them.
The Hamelin brothers are always well received in Italy, thus they are very excited about tasting good food and of course, delicious coffee. For François, the city that hosted the 2006 Olympics is really special because it brings back precious memories. ”I remember watching the Olympics at home, my brother was part of the Canadian team so obviously I was cheering and screaming in front of my television. I lost my voice after Marc Gagnon and Jonathan Guillemette won their medal in the 500m and I cried when I knew my brother was coming home with a silver medal from the relay. ” It is now François’ turn to perform in Italy. “These beautiful moments definitely inspire me and now it is my turn to show what I’m capable of. My job will be to secure a spot in the 1500 and relay events”
The biggest rivals of Canadian skaters are from Korea, China and Usa. Victor An, from Russia, is also very dominant but Charles isn’t worried at all because after the last week of training, he is totally satisfied with his skating and he looks forward to start competing. “I am very excited to return to the arena of the 2006 Olympic Games. Good memories come to my mind when I think about Turin. Also, the hot weather in Budapest and Turin makes me very happy!"
The World Cup will take place in Turin from November 7 to 10 and by then, Charles and François will face preparatory training sessions. The competition results will be available via International Skating Union It will also be possible to watch the races live via ISU Skating Channel
