Newcomer Hedrick tops world record

KEARNS — Records were dropping like the temperature outside the Utah Olympic Oval on Friday as dozens of skaters from around the world set personal, national and even world records in the Essent World Cup.

And, if Chad Hedrick's bravado is to be believed, there will be more history-making as the event continues over the next two days. Hedrick, who last week shattered the world record in the 5,000 meters in Calgary, continued turning the sport on its head as he sliced nearly a half second off the 1,500 world record formerly held by fellow American Shani Davis. His clocking of 1 minute, 42.78 seconds marked the first time anyone has ever skated the distance in less than 1:43.

"I'm still new at this," said Hedrick, who only began speedskating three years ago. "I'm starting to become a smarter racer. I'm thinking more and today I was just using my turns to my advantage."

While already on a tremendous pace through the first two laps, Hedrick kicked things up a notch or two on his last lap and turned in the fastest split time ever recorded as he crossed the finish line. Hedrick, who shared a huge hug and shed a few tears with 2002 gold medalist Derek Parra after the race, is one of the new faces of speedskating in America. He trains with Parra during the season and has learned plenty from the former world record holder.

"I told him I'm tired of giving him my secrets," Parra joked after the race.

"He's just a natural at this. I'm a gold medalist and former world record holder and I'm still counting my steps. Chad just goes and doesn't have to think about every little thing."

As if setting one world record at this World Cup event wasn't enough, Hedrick, who was timed at 6:09.78 in the 5,000 last week, made a bold prediction for today's race.

"I'll get 6:07," he boasted. "You can quote me on that."

Team USA is gearing up for what it hopes is another successful run in the Olympics. After winning 11 medals in 2002, the Americans are hoping to eclipse that mark and Hedrick — along with Davis — is among the brightest new stars on the USA's roster.

"I'm not at my peak yet," Hedrick said. "You'll see the real Chad Hedrick in Torino."