Short track skater Elise Christie picked up her second medal of the season with a silver in the 1000m at the second ISU World Cup, which took place at the weekend at the Maurice-Richard Arena in Montreal.

She fought her way to silver in 1:31.237, finishing just behind the Canadian Valeria Maltais. Speaking after the race Christie said:

“Montreal’s been challenging after racing last weekend, obviously I was really tired and it was hard to re-motivate myself for round two, but I did believe I could do it.

“Last year I didn’t even get into two finals at back to back World Cups, so it shows I’m mentally stronger. I’m pleased with another silver, and it’s been a good start to the season.”

Her performance this weekend means Christie continues to be ranked world number one in the 1000m, but unfortunately problems with her blades meant Christie fell in the 500m and failed to progress past the preliminaries:

“I think I could have done well in the 500m had I not had trouble with my blades, but sometimes things don’t go to plan in short track! I’m going to practise for the 1500m now and see how I can do on that in Asia.”

Christie’s training partner, Charlotte Gilmartin from Redditch, showed great improvements this weekend. She beat world renowned speed skater Martina Valcepina from Italy to qualify for her first World Cup B final in the 500m.

Sportsister, The Women’s Sports Magazine

Image credit: Nick Potts/PA