Auckland / New Zealand

The third ISU World Development Trophy in Short Track Speed Skating was held in Auckland, New Zealand on 11-16 April 2015, with the participation of 40 athletes of 10 ISU Members. Compared to last year’s Trophy event, the number of both participating countries and athletes have doubled. Provisional ISU Member Qatar participated for the first time at an ISU World Development Trophy event.

The event started with competitions for four age categories: Junior A, Junior B, Junior C and Junior D. Every skater participated in 500 m and 1000 m races, in total there were 16 races.

The level of skating was considerably higher this year than at previous events, as demonstrated by the time results. In fact six Men and seven Ladies that competed in the ISU World Development Trophy have achieved the necessary qualification time in order to qualify and participate in the ISU World Junior Short Track Speed Skating Championships 2015. 

Topping the Trophy standings were D.P.R. Korea and New Zealand who got seven first places each, while India finished second in four different categories. 

Skaters from all participating Members were brought together to form mixed relay teams for 2000 m exhibition races to experience a team spirit. The competition was followed by a 5-day-long training camp moderated by World Short Track Speed Skating  silver medalist Zhang Jing (CHN) as main coach.

Overall the event was hosted and organized by the Ice Speed Skating New Zealand Inc. to the satisfaction of all participants enjoying the benefits of professional experience and new motivation for future development.