went through my head was that I wasn’t going to be able to compete at the Olym- pics which was a life- long goal for me. It was definitely a heartbreaking moment. When Walter got to me on the ice, he quickly wrapped my leg with his shirt and told me that he knew what he was do- ing and that everything was going to be all right. That reassurance and help from him saved my life.” J.R. shared. With only five months until the Olympic Games, 19-year-old Celski needed to learn to walk first, skate second. With an intense rehabilitation, JR never doubted he would compete in the Winter Games. He kept his thoughts positive and focused. His attitude paid off, he not only made it to Vancouver, but stunned his family and himself by be- coming a two time bronze medalist. After such an up and down season, J.R. decided to take a break from skating to rest, relax and recharge. He began work- ing in a field that he took interest in: Media Production, and film making. He started working on a documentary film called “The
Otherside” which captures lo- cal music talent in the Seattle Hip Hop scene. “We also wanted to show what it’s like behind the scenes of an artist and what it’s like to be on tour, produce music, and what goes on in their heads. We are currently in the post-production pro- cess and should have a fin- ished product by early next year.” J.R. said. Sochi is also in J.R.’s sites for a goal to accomplish, but as he has learned in the past, first things first. He was excited to return to training this summer and cannot wait to see how the skaters have improved on the inter- national circuit. “I know a lot of skaters have been get- ting stronger so it will be cool to race with them to see that progression.” Skaters enjoy the spring month of April and beginning in May, to rest and
rejuvenate. Plans and goals are set and they start the training process all over again. Skaters like Kelly and J.R. include running, cycling, and dryland to prepare for September when they and all speed- skaters are eager and ready to get back on the ice.
Kelly and J.R. have both qualified for spots on the long track and short track world cup squads this season. We wish them both luck and are happy to wel- come them back to the ice this season.
www.usspeedskating.org
Fall 2011
RACING BLADE 11
Photo by: Thomas DiNardo Bella Faccie Sports Media
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