Elise Christie insists a desire to develop her all-round ability is the reason behind her decision not to bid to complete her World Cup title in the 1000m in style in Dresden.
Christie became the first British short track speed skater ever to win a World Cup title last weekend as she claimed silver in Sochi for an unassailable lead in the overall standings.
That was Christie’s fifth top-three finish in the 1000m this season and extended her overall points tally to 4552, a total no-one can surpass at the World Cup finale in Dresden.
And the 22-year-old has confirmed she will not race the 1000m in Germany instead concentrating on the longer 1500m and shorter 500m, of which there are two events.
She has enjoyed success in the 1500m this season, winning European gold over the distance as well as over 1000m last month and World Cup silver in Nagano and bronze in Sochi.
Christie’s best finish in the 500m has been reaching the quarter-finals in Montreal and she is keeping her hopes for further medals at a minimum in Dresden.
“I wanted to challenge myself and see what I can do in other events,” said Christie, who will also race in the women’s 3000m relay as Britain field a team in a World Cup for the first time this season.
“I’m not really expecting anything because they’re not my events but by putting myself into that new situation I can learn more and keep developing my skills.”
© Sportsbeat 2013