Plagued by injuries and the cancellation of the December 2021 Olympic Trials due to rising COVID-19 cases among athletes, long-track speed skater David La Rue rediscovered his love for his sport after difficult moments.
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While he focused solely on his athletic achievements, La Rue made a drastic change in 2021 when his Olympic dream came to an abrupt end. He’s gone back to school full-time and is one course away from earning a bachelor’s degree in finance.
“My perspective on the sport has changed for the better,” he explained before heading to Japan for the start of the World Cup season. I have rediscovered the joy of practicing my sport. I love every aspect of it.”
“Before I went back to school full-time, I just focused on my performances,” continued La Rue, who gave up competing at world championships in the fall of 2021 to treat his back injury. I emerged stronger from my trials. I feel less pressure and perform more easily. It’s a process that took two to three years.”
A healthy balance
The Street has found the famous balance. “I’m happy with where I’m at in my life now,” he said. Finding this balance has brought me happiness. I will graduate in the next few weeks and can concentrate on the sporting aspect. I am also more grateful to travel and represent my country. I have had great experiences with incredible people. It’s much easier to appreciate the present moment and that’s why I feel so good.”
La Rue was plagued by back problems before the national championships Oct. 5-8 in Calgary and had a good scare, but was able to qualify for the world championships. His third place in the 1500 m secured his ticket.
“I still have a few little episodes with my back, but it’s nothing to do with the last few years,” he said. Cycling has changed my preparation like never before.”
“In recent years I have reached the top at national championships and it became difficult to improve,” La Rue added. This time I wasn’t at my best, but I know I can improve. It’s exciting for the World Cup. Opening the ice center in Quebec allowed me to reach a level that I never thought possible. At some point I wondered if I hadn’t done it [atteint] my maximum. The ring gave me new breath.”
In addition to the 1500m, La Rue will also run the 1000m, mass start and team pursuit, a prospect that excites him. In the pursuit he will run alongside Antoine Gélinas-Beaulieu and Connor Howe.