Thanks for the memories, Beijing!

Record-setting Olympian Pechstein bowled over by warm welcome and safe environment at Games

German speed skating legend Claudia Pechstein has lavished praise on Beijing 2022 organizers for making her historic appearance at the Games so memorable and safe.

Pechstein became the oldest female Olympian at 49 when she competed in the women's 3,000m at the National Speed Skating Oval last week.

Although she finished bottom of the standings at her eighth Olympics, the result couldn't diminish her joy in Beijing, where she says she has been able to relax and enjoy her Games experience thanks in large part to the comprehensive COVID-19 protocols in place.