Corey claims Australia’s first ever World Championship 1500m medal

At the ISU Short Track Speed Skating World Championships in Rotterdam in the Netherlands, 2022 Olympian Brendan Corey created history, becoming the first ever Australian to win an individual medal with a bronze medal in the 1500 metre distance.

Previously Australia had medalled at the World Championships in the men’s relay event - which featured Olympic gold medallist Steven Bradbury and Jim Lynch in the 500m, but never in the 1500m individual distance.

Making the performance even more incredible, is that Corey trains and competes as an individual against a multiple of powerful European, North American and Asian nations that each have large full time national team programs. Finishing ahead of Corey on the podium was Long Sun of China in first place, with Dutch skater Jens van't Wout in second.
Corey also competed in the 500m placing 12th and in the 1000m was 15th.

“I’ve never experienced anything like this,” said the 2022 Olympian.

“I felt confident before the race because I know I’m strong right now. I’ve been working hard all year, and everything has accumulated.”

“I just went out there and tried to stay relaxed. I blocked everything out except the race.

“I have no idea when Australia last won a medal at the World Championships. It means so much. I hope it gives more recognition to speed skating in Australia, and I hope it inspired the future generation.

"The atmosphere is crazy. Incredible. It is an amazing place to race.”

Also in action for Australia was Hyo Jin Kim, finishing 32nd in the 500m, 41st in the 1000m and 18th in the 1500m.