Colbert steps up to raise funds for U.S. Speedskating

When the Dutch bank DSB declared bankruptcy recently, few imagined the impact would be felt in — of all places — Kearns.

But the Utah Olympic Oval in Kearns is home to the U.S. Speedskating team, and DSB was one of the biggest sponsors for speedskating teams around the globe. The bankruptcy left dozens of U.S. skaters and the team's board of directors wondering if they'd be able to make ends meet with the 2010 Winter Olympics just a few months away.

Television satirist Stephen Colbert, however, stepped up to save the day and will use his legions of fans to help the team return from Vancouver with more gold, silver and bronze.

""We must ensure that it is America's 38-inch thighs on that medal platform," Colbert said on his program, Comedy Central's "The Colbert Report," Monday night.

The announcement couldn't have come at a better time. Not only did the team need a sponsor, the athletes had just embarked on their World Cup season with the short track team, led by Apolo Anton Ohno and Katherine Reuter, in Montreal; and the long track skaters, powered by Shani Davis and Chad Hedrick, in Berlin.

Colbert's support — which will come via donations from his Web site ColbertNation.com — will be a much-needed financial boost. But the exposure and publicity the team will get with mentions on the television program and possible appearances at competitions prior to the Olympics will be every bit as valuable.

"U.S. Speedskating is thrilled to be able to create a unique partnership between one of the great entertainers in the industry and one of the great sports in the Olympic movement," Bob Crowley, executive director of the team, said. "Embracing the U.S. Speedskating team will provide immeasurable exposure for our sport and very talented athletes."

Speedskaters have been the most successful winter Olympic athletes for the U.S., with 75 medals heading into the Vancouver Games, which are now less than 100 days away.

Ohno said he is excited to have the new sponsor.

"I personally love Comedy Central + The Colbert Report," Ohno said in an e-mail to The Associated Press. "Any attention the sport can get is going to be beneficial. I'd like to see how creative they can get! I'm game to do a skit about it."

The long track skaters will be at the Utah Olympic Oval in December, and Colbert might make an appearance at the races from Dec. 11-13.

But his support, which will dramatically help the squad recover from the $300,000 hole in its budget created by DSB's bankruptcy, is welcomed by members of the team.

"Our team is very excited to welcome Stephen on board," said Ryan Bedford, in Germany for the World Cup where he will race in the long distance events. "He will bring a much-needed boost of energy for our team leading into the Olympic Games."

e-mail: jeborn@desnews.com