Jordan Stolz says the Olympics, not trials, are what matter

Jordan Stolz, pre-qualified for Milano Cortina in his individual events, skipped the 1,500m at U.S. trials after a slower 500m race that he still won. He has locked the 1,000m spot, plans to race the mass start Monday, and will decide later about a second 500m.

Jordan Stolz is taking a long view as the U.S. speed skating trials proceed. He is pre-qualified for the Milano Cortina Olympic team in his individual races and chose to sit out the 1,500 meters while still meeting the event's requirement by lining up at the start. Stolz said a subpar feeling in the 500 meters — a race he won but at a time below his usual — led him to rest instead of pushing another distance. He has already secured the 1,000-meter spot and plans to race the mass start on Monday while leaving the second 500-meter decision until he gauges how he feels. Key facts: - Stolz is pre-qualified for the Milano Cortina Olympic team in his individual events. - He did not fully compete in the 1,500 meters but will line up to fulfill the requirement to lock the spot. - Stolz won the 500 meters but recorded a time (34.76) he said was below his standard and called it a test of how his legs felt. - He locked his 1,000-meter spot on Saturday night and said he will race the mass start on Monday. - He will make a game-time decision about entering a second 500-meter race based on how he feels. Summary: Stolz is prioritizing rest and preparation over pushing for fast times at these trials, reflecting his focus on the upcoming Olympics. His immediate schedule includes the mass start on Monday and a later decision about a second 500m entry, with his 1,000m position already secured.