Canadians Dutton, Blondin place third in World Cup events

SALT LAKE CITY – Canadians William Dutton and Ivanie Blondin both collected bronze medals Friday on the first day of the second stage of the long track speedskating World Cup season.

Dutton, of Humboldt, Sask., earned his third medal in as many men’s 500-metre races so far this season with a time of 34.35 seconds. Last week, at the first World Cup stage of the season held in Calgary, Dutton won a silver and a bronze in the two 500 races that were held.

Dutton finished behind Russia’s Pavel Kulizhnikov, who won gold with a new world record of 33.98, Friday. American skater Mitchell Whitmore finished second in 34.19.

“I had trouble focusing today because there are a lot of distractions when you’re on the road,” said Dutton.

“I was able to overcome the distractions, however, and prove to myself that I’m not just a home-ice skater. That was a pretty good feeling. Also, hitting back-to-back podiums feels great, but it’s really just about keeping consistency in my preparation. Every race is a new challenge and I’m really happy that I’m able to face these challenges and overcome them each time.

Ottawa’s Blondin improved on her personal best by close to 10 seconds in the women’s 5000, lowering it from 7:04.68 to 6:55.88.

Czech skater Martina Sablikova won gold in 6:47.42, while Russia’s Natalya Voronina came up with silver in 6:53.16.

“I’m happy with my race, my personal best and my podium finish,” said Blondin. “But it wasn’t easy. I was in a very good pairing with Natalya Voronina. She had good rhythm and was fast from start to finish.”