Short track speed skating Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids
Short track speed skating
Characteristics
3000 meters short track relay during the 2014 Winter Olympics
Highest governing body	International Skating Union
Mixed-sex	Yes
Equipment	ice skates, helmet, gloves, suit, shin guards, neck guard, safety glasses
Presence
Olympic	1988 (demonstration) 1992 - present

Skaters racing in a 500 meter short track heat at the 2004 World Cup in Saguenay.

Short track speed skating is an exciting type of ice speed skating. Imagine racing around an oval track on super-sharp blades! In this sport, several skaters (usually four to six) race against each other at the same time.

The race takes place on an oval ice track that is 111.12 metres long. The entire ice rink is quite large, measuring 60 metres by 30 metres. This sport has been a part of the Winter Olympics since 1992.

What is Short Track Speed Skating?
History of the Sport
Equipment and Safety
Images for kids
See also

What is Short Track Speed Skating?

Short track speed skating is all about speed and strategy. Skaters race around a small oval track, trying to be the first to cross the finish line. Unlike long track speed skating, where skaters race against the clock, in short track, they race directly against each other.

The track is marked out on a standard ice hockey rink. Special rubber blocks are used to create the oval shape. Skaters need to be very skilled at turning sharply to stay on the track.

History of the Sport

Short track speed skating started to become popular in the early 20th century. It was a way for skaters to race each other directly on smaller rinks. The first official World Championships for short track were held in 1981.

The sport was first shown at the Olympics in 1988 as a demonstration event. This means it was there to show people what it was like, but medals weren't given out. It became a full medal sport at the Winter Olympics in 1992.

Equipment and Safety

Skaters wear special gear to keep them safe and help them go fast. Their equipment includes:

Ice skates: These have very sharp, long blades designed for speed and turning.
Helmet: A strong helmet protects their head from falls.
Gloves: Special gloves protect their hands, especially when they touch the ice during sharp turns.
Suit: Skaters wear a tight-fitting suit that helps them move through the air more easily.
Shin guards and neck guard: These protect their shins and neck from cuts or impacts.
Safety glasses: These protect their eyes from ice chips or other debris.

All this gear helps skaters stay safe while they race at very high speeds.