Whelbourne crashes out of final but eyes swift return to the ice
BRITISH short track speed skater Jack Whelbourne declared his determination to return to the ice after crashing out of yesterday’s historic 1,500m final in Sochi.
The 22-year-old set a new British record in his first heat then became his nation’s first-ever representative in a 1,500m Games’ final, before tumbling when placed fourth with four laps remaining.
And Whelbourne, targeting a return in Thursday’s 1,000m event, said: “I’m definitely getting back on the ice, if I can. I don’t know what’s happening with my ankle now, but I’m really pleased with my performance, especially setting a new record in the first round.”
The British men’s curling team, skipped by David Murdoch, won their opening match against hosts Russia 7-4, but were later beaten by Sweden 8-4. Meanwhile, Eve Muirhead’s rink lost 6-4 to Sweden.
Alpine skier Chemmy Alcott opened her fourth Winter Olympics campaign in the super combined slalom, finishing 16th in the downhill, though chose not to compete in the slalom.
Elise Christie and Charlotte Gilmartin progressed to Thursday’s short track 500m quarter-finals.
TUESDAY’S HIGHLIGHTS
■ Katie Summerhayes, 18, goes for gold in the ski slopestyle. Qualifying begins at 6am British time
■ Rosamund Musgrave starts women’s sprint free cross country skiing qualifying at 10am, shortly before younger brother Andrew
■ Men’s curlers play Germany at 10am, women meet USA at 3pm