Elena BELCI

Elena Belci is the most succesful female Italian allrounder ever. She made her international début at the World Junior Championships in 1980 and 1982, and started skating with the seniors in 1983. She later took part in 12 World Championships and 12 European Championships, her best results being fourth (European Championships, 1993) and seventh (World Championships, 1990). As a long distance specialist, she won two silver 5000 m medals (World Championships 1990, European Championships 1998) and, perhaps her best achievement, a bronze 5000 m medal at the inaugural 1996 World Single Distance Championships.

Belci, who married fellow speed skater and coach Carlo dal Farra in September of 1984, took part in four Olympic Winter Games, with her best Olympic achievement a fourth place in the 5,000 at Hamar in 1994. She only qualified for that distance thanks to several forfeits, as she was disqualified in the 3000 m, which was also the qualifying event for the 5K. Belci won 18 Italian Championships, claiming the allround title 14 times and the sprint title on four occasions. She achieved 10 podium spots in World Cup races, placing third in 3,000 m and 5,000 m races.

Personal Bests: 500 – 42.60 (1998); 1000 – 1:23.10 (1998); 1500 – 2:04.28 (1998); 3000 – 4:13.13 (1998); 5000 – 7:15.58 (1998).