Short track talent Leon Visser receives support from Reggeborgh Foundation
He is a talented short track speed skater and hopes to take the final step towards joining the Dutch short track speed skating team next season. Leon Visser is supported in his ambition by Reggeborgh Foundation. The short track speed skater has been included in the Foundation's Groene Appeltjes programme.
Reggeborgh is the main sponsor of Gerard van Velde's long track team, which includes top skaters such as Kjeld Nuis, Jenning de Boo and Femke Kok. The Foundation also supports various winter sports athletes, including skeleton star Kimberly Bos, alpine skier Noa Rabou and parasnowboarders Chris Vos and Lisa Bunschoten.
Leon Visser is the first short track speed skater to make an appearance in the Groene Appeltjes programme. Born in Utrecht, he has been living on his own in Heerenveen for several months. ‘I used to play football, do judo and skate. At one point, I had three different training sessions in one evening and had to make a choice. I chose long-track speed skating,’ says 19-year-old Visser.
Four years ago, Leon was selected for the KNSB Talent Team short track. ‘From that moment on, I really focused on short track, although I still do long track occasionally. I really love the feeling that short track gives me. Because you compete with and against each other on the track, it gives you a huge thrill when you win.’
“From that moment on, I really focused on short track, although I still do long track occasionally. I really love the feeling that short track gives me. Because you compete with and against each other on the track, it gives you a huge thrill when you win.”
- Leon Visser
Visser (19) had a good season last year. He became Dutch junior champion in the 500, 1,000 and 1,500 metres. He also achieved an impressive second place at the Junior World Cup in Quebec. This season, Visser is making the transition to the senior ranks. ‘I am focusing on my personal development rather than on results. I hope this will enable me to take that final step towards Team NL short track. I am grateful for the support of Reggeborgh Foundation and delighted to have been given this opportunity. It will enable me to better finance my sport. I look forward to a fruitful collaboration.’
Inge Wessels of Reggeborgh Foundation: ‘Leon knows what he wants and is willing to work hard. That fits in well with us. We are proud that he will be part of our Groene Appeltjes.’