"I have more structure than I used to have. I know exactly what to do. If everything is well structured, I feel relaxed. The programme was just long enough for me to go back to the hotel and rest on my bed."

The ten years don't say much to me. I do my things, my way. Jeremy is right if he says that technique is of extreme importance. Kramer hits the strokes well, and physically he is OK, but in sprints, it's even more important to skate well technically, and I must say I have that much experience."

Did he hesitate about what suit to wear? "Well, I got the new suits two days ago, and I put it on, and then I did not hesitate any more. I will not change just before a tournament, and it was not that comfortable that I thought I would enjoy skating in it. First I got an L, I managed to get one leg in, but then there was no room for another one. Then I got an XL, and I immediately tore it. Then I got an XXL, and I tore it as well. So finally I got XXXL, and I think it is too tight. There's a double layer of fabric, and the inner one is already too tight around the legs. But after having Ronald van den Ing check the blades, the feeling of relief came. Even if you're physically well prepared, nothing should go wrong with equipment."