Annie BORCKINK

Annie Borckink never won any national or international titles in her career, except for a most unexpected gold medal in the 1980 Winter Games. Borckink had finished fourth in the 1000 m at the World Sprint Championships just prior to the Games, her best achievement until that moment, and improved further in the 1500 m. It snowed during the race, but Borckink nevertheless powered to a personal best, finishing nearly 1.5 seconds ahead of compatriot Ria Visser. The surprise gold medal also earned her the Dutch female athlete of the year award in 1980. Annie Borckink currently owns a sporting goods store in Dronten.

Personal Bests: 500 – 43.3 (1977); 1000 – 1:25.60 (1980); 1500 – 2:10.95 (1980); 3000 – 4:41.75 (1981).