The Definition

Short track speedskating is an adrenaline sport that takes strength, speed, and focus.  Athletes try to outskate and outwit their competitors to cross the finish line first. They skate counter-clockwise around an oval track and can reach speeds up to 35 mph.

The Track

The short track race is held at an indoor oval track, 30 x 60 meters. The standard track is 111.12 meters with two curved ends, 180 degrees each, in which the radius must be 8 meters. The straight portion of the track must be 28.25 meters each.

The Races

500 meters: This four-and-a-half lap race is an all-out sprint. The skaters must get off to a good start because passing at high speeds is difficult. Individual heats feature four skaters at a time in a mass start. 1000: This is a great race to watch... the skaters start out slowly then gradually speed up until they are at top speed for the last two or three laps of this nine-lap race. Individual heats feature four skaters at a time in a mass start. 1500: This race consists of 13 1/2 laps and measures almost a mile. It can be very exhausting and difficult, but also is very interesting. Individual heats feature six skaters at a time in a mass start. 3000 relay: The women's relay consists of teams of four skaters who must complete 27 laps around the oval. Most 3000 m relays involve a lot of sprinting and taking turns between the teams of four skaters. The relay is full of constant passing and spills and is the most exciting women's event in short track. 5000 relay: The men's relay consists of teams of four skaters who must complete 45 laps around the oval. It is also standard for the race to involve a lot of sprinting and taking turns between team-mates. This relay is absolutely the most thrilling and exciting short track race.