Elise Christie admitted she surprised even herself as she picked up two gold medals on day two of the European Short Track Championships in Dordrecht, Holland.
Christie, who was disqualified from all her races at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, faced a nervous wait after clipping favourite Arianna Fontana on the last lap of the 1500m.
But the judges ruled Christie was not at fault and the result stood as she reclaimed the title she won at the 2013 European Championships.
And the 24-year-old Scot later led the 500m race from the gun to add a second gold in the Netherlands.
“I’m absolutely ecstatic that I won the 1500m and 500m, however it completely shocked me, to a point that I actually got a bit emotional afterwards,” Christie said.
“I’ve never even got to a final in a European 500m in my whole career so I’m over the moon that I’ve not only reached the podium, but have left with a gold medal.
“I definitely feel like all my hard work is paying off and I just hope that I can continue to skate as well tomorrow for the 1000m finals.”
There could be more to celebrate as both Christie and compatriot Charlotte Gilmartin have qualified for the 1000m quarter-finals which will conclude tomorrow alongside the 3000m super-finals. Gilmartin also qualified for the 1500m final, where she finished fifth.
Jack Whelbourne skated his way to the 1500m semi-final where he finished in fourth place. Whelbourne has qualified for the 1000m quarter-final after skating his way to a first place finish in his heat. Stuart Horsepool, performance director, said: “Elise skated brilliantly and I couldn’t be happier for her. Charlotte has also done really well so far placing in the top six overall.
“Tomorrow will be really exciting however the team have to remain focused on the race processes and the little details and try to not think about the outcomes.
“The aim of this competition is to concentrate on honing in the racing craft ahead of the World Championships so the skaters just have to keep reminding themselves to focus on the little details as that is what will make them champions.”
© Sportsbeat 2015