Four internationally renowned Short Track officials – Andrea “Andy” Thornton (GBR), Jean “Rocky” Lamontagne (CAN), Michel Dumont (CAN), and Peter Worth (GBR) – have been awarded a Merit Diploma by ISU President Jae Youl Kim as their decorated officiating careers reached the finish line. 

The ceremony, held at the ISU Home of Skating in Milano, recognized their outstanding service to the sport at all levels. Together, the four officials have contributed a combined 90 years of international service. 

Michel Dumont (CAN), Jean “Rocky” Lamontagne (CAN), ISU President Jae Youl Kim, Andrea “Andy” Thornton (GBR),and Peter Worth (GBR) at the ISU Home of Skating in Milan © ISU

ISU President Jae Youl Kim praised their legacy, stating: “This is a wonderful use of the Home of Skating, celebrating our officials that represent what we stand for: fair and safe sport. Their contribution won’t be forgotten, while the rest of us carry on ensuring Short Track becomes an even more incredible sport in the future.” 

Across decades of dedication, the four honorees have devoted countless weekdays and weekends to Short Track, traveling to competitions worldwide, officiating virtually, volunteering locally and mentoring the next generation of officials.

Andrea “Andy” Thornton (GBR) and ISU President Jae Youl Kim at the ISU Home of Skating in Milan © ISU

Andrea “Andy” Thornton of Great Britain was recognized for her long and respected career as a Competitors’ Steward. She officiated internationally from 1996 to 1999 and served at ISU Championships between 1999 and 2026. Before moving into officiating, Thornton competed in Short Track with Sheffield Ice Racing Skate and the Bradford Ice Speed Skating Club. 

Jean “Rocky” Lamontagne (CAN) and ISU President Jae Youl Kim at the ISU Home of Skating in Milan © ISU

In the starters’ category, Jean “Rocky” Lamontagne of Canada was honored for his passion and commitment. 

After beginning as a club starter 36 years ago with the Ottawa Pacers Speed Skating Club, he served internationally from 2010 to 2013. At Milano Cortina 2026, Lamontagne has overseen the start of the men’s Short Track races as Chief Starter at the Milano Ice Skating Arena.

Michel Dumont (CAN) at the ISU Home of Skating in Milan © ISU

Canada’s Michel Dumont received recognition for his wide-ranging service as a referee, including volunteer duties at the 2010 Olympic Winter Games and multiple international referee roles on ice and in the video review room since 2011. For Milano Cortina 2026, his first Olympic Winter Games as an official, Dumont has been serving as Chief Referee for the Women Short Track competitions. 

Peter Worth (GBR) and ISU President Jae Youl Kim at the ISU Home of Skating in Milan © ISU

Peter Worth, a former Short Track skater from 1973 to 1988 and international official since 1997, was honored in the Referees’ category. He officiated at the Olympic Winter Games in Sochi 2014, Pyeongchang 2018, Beijing 2022 and Milano Cortina 2026, alongside countless ISU Championships and World Cups. 

While all four now hang up their skates at the international officiating level, their passion for Short Track remains undiminished. The ISU has no doubt that their expertise and commitment will continue to benefit the sport within their local communities for years to come.