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Japan, Russia split speed skating mass start golds at Universiade

Xinhua, February 6, 2017 Adjust font size:

Japanese skater Seitaro Ichinohe claimed the gold medal of men's speed skating mass start here on Monday, while Anna Pristalova of Russia took the women's title of the event at the 28th Winter Universiade.

Ichinohe come out on top with a time of eight minutes 56.98 seconds. He was followed by South Korea's Lee Jinyeong in 8:57.18. Alexander Razorenov of Russia ranked third with 9:01.11.

"We have many strong skaters in this race, like Italy's Davide Ghiotto, Austria's Linus Haidegger and some skaters from South Korea. I am happy that I was able to win gold," said Ichinohe after the game.

Ghiotto ranked eighth among the 16 skaters while Haidegger 10th.

In women's mass start, Pristalova enjoyed a good start and maintained her pace to finish first in 10:43.33. Sakai of Japan, who already won the silver medal in 5,000 meters and bronze in team pursuit, came second with 10:45.12. The bronze went to Jun Yejin of South Korea who timed 10:45.33.

The 23-year-old Pristalova was overjoyed after winning the race.

"This was an unexpected victory for me. Other athletes are very strong. They participate at World Cups and other major tournaments. The support from the audience inspired me. Thanks to everyone. I do not even know where I found strength to finish the race," said Pristalova. Endit