Hans van Helden

Netherlands

Speed Skating

B: April 27, 1948

1976 Triple Olympic Bronze Medalist

Van Helden first appeared on the international scene in 1973, finishing second at the European Championships, 16th at the World Sprint Championships and seventh at the World Allround. In 1974, he was third at the European Championships (winning the 5000 meters), fifth at the World Allround (winning the 1500 meters) and eighth at the World Sprints. In 1976, van Helden was fifth at the European Championships and then went to the Olympics in Innsbruck, winning bronze medals at the 1500, 5000 and 10000 meters, as well as finishing fifth at 1000 meters and 19th at 500 meters. After the Games, he finished third at the World Allround (winning the 5000) and fourth at the World Sprints (winning both 1000's). In 1976, he set two world records, in January he skated 7:07.82 for 5000 meters and in March, 1:55.61 for 1500 meters. He was unable to make the Dutch team for the 1980 Olympics. Upon marrying French skater Marie-France Vives, van Helden gained French citizenship and began skating for his new country in 1982. At the 1984 Olympics, van Helden skated all five events, with a best finish of fourth in the 1500 meters. He skated all five events again at the 1988 Olympics, with a best finish of 19th in the 1500 meters.

SUPERSTARS RECORD

PERSONAL BESTS

Swimming - 50 Meters	50.3e	1976 Dutch
100 Meter Dash	12.4	1976 Dutch
Kayaking - 100 Meters	43.7	1976 Dutch
Kayaking - 125 Meters	45.5e	1977 European Final
Crossbow	47	1977 European Final
Gym Test - Parallel Bar Dips	18	1977 European Final
Gym Test - Squat Thrusts	71	1977 European Final
Gymnasium Obstacle Course	44.8e	1977 European Final
Soccer Penalties	2	1976 Dutch
Long Jump	5.22	1976 Dutch
Cycling - 200 Meter Flying Start	13.71	1977 European Final
Cycling - 500 Meters	53.2	1976 Dutch
600 Meter Steeplechase	1:48.6e	1976 Dutch
Points Scored	53 1/2	1977 European Heat 3

Home | Athlete List