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Wim de Graaff facts for kids

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Wim de Graaff
Peter Nottet en Wim de Graaff (1967).jpg
Peter Nottet and Wim de Graaff (1967)
Personal information
Born (1931-08-25)25 August 1931
Rotterdam, Netherlands
Died 12 January 2021(2021-01-12) (aged 89)
Rotterdam, Netherlands
Sport
Country  Netherlands
Sport Speed skating

Willem "Wim" de Graaff (born August 25, 1931 – died January 12, 2021) was a talented speed skater from the Netherlands. He was born and passed away in Rotterdam. Wim de Graaff represented his country in two major sports events: the 1956 Winter Olympics and the 1960 Winter Olympics.

Wim de Graaff at the 1956 Winter Olympics

Wim de Graaff competed in several speed skating races at the 1956 Winter Olympics. These games were held in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy. He showed great skill in his races.

Top Results in 1956

Wim de Graaff had his best finish in the 5000 metres event, where he placed fourth. This was a very strong performance. He also finished eleventh in the 1500 metres competition.

Other Races in 1956

In the longer 10000 metres contest, he came in 18th place. For the shorter 500 metres event, he finished 43rd.

Wim de Graaff at the 1960 Winter Olympics

Four years later, Wim de Graaff returned to compete in the 1960 Winter Olympics. These games took place in Squaw Valley, California, USA. He continued to show his dedication to speed skating.

His Performance in 1960

At the 1960 Games, Wim de Graaff competed in two events. He finished 15th in the 1500 metres competition. In the 500 metres contest, he placed 28th.

Life After Competing

After his career as an Olympic speed skater, Wim de Graaff stayed involved in the world of sports. He used his experience to help others.

Becoming a Coach and Shop Owner

Wim de Graaff became a well-known skate coach. He helped many athletes improve their skills. He also owned a sport shop in Maassluis, where he likely shared his passion for sports with the community.

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