Milan: Korean American short track speed skater Andrew Heo is ready to face strong competition from South Korean athletes at the Winter Olympics in northern Italy this month. Heo, who grew up admiring South Korean skaters and was coached by a South Korean Olympic champion, is making his second Olympic appearance following his debut in Beijing four years ago.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Heo competed in the 1,000 meters, 1,500 meters, and the 2,000-meter mixed relay in Beijing without winning any medals. This year, he is set to compete in the 500m, 1,500m, and the 2,000m mixed relay. Heo expressed confidence in his improved speed and abilities, stating, "I'm very capable of being up there with the top guys and the best in the world." Heo's confidence is bolstered by his recent success at the International Skating Union Short Track World Tour in the Netherlands, where he won the 500m title.
Historically, the men's 500m has not been a strong event for South Korea, despite the country's dominance in Olympic short track with 26 gold medals. South Korean skater Hwang Dae-heon will seek to defend his 1,500m gold medal, with Rim Jong-un also showing promising performance in his first senior-level campaign.
Heo has fostered friendships with South Korean skaters, including former national team skater Park In-wook and Choi Min-jeong, a three-time gold medalist. During a recent training session, Heo was seen interacting with Shim Suk-hee, a three-time Olympian, and Rim Jong-un. Heo's Olympic journey has been driven by the motivation to achieve an Olympic medal, a desire that intensified after his experience in Beijing.
For the first time, Heo's parents, Peter and Jennifer, will be present to support him at the Olympics. The opportunity to perform in front of his family is a significant moment for Heo, who cherishes their support and admiration for both him and the South Korean skaters.
Heo's family, ardent fans of South Korean skaters, will be cheering for him even if he faces South Korean athletes on the podium. "Whatever medal. Honestly, I don't have to get a gold. I think they would just be cheering for me," Heo remarked, highlighting the pride and joy shared by his family in his Olympic journey.