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After skating the American Olympic Trials on a broken ankle four years ago, and consequently just missing out on qualifying for the Torino Olympic Games, the upcoming Olympic Trials later this month will be of great importance for short track speed skater Jordan Malone. Looking back on several severe injuries over the last four years and even starting out the past season with a broken foot, Malone is hoping for an injury free season during which he will be able to prove himself on an Olympic stage.

By Jolanda Abbes

How do you look back on this past season? Did you meet your goals and expectations?

“Well, with the injury I had at the beginning of this season (broken foot), my goals had to change for the year. I was only able to train for two months before our trials, so the obvious goal was to make the team. I would have rather had an individual spot at Worlds but I am happy with making the relay team and winning gold. =]”

Would you consider the past season to be a good blueprint for next season?

“I would have liked to spend the season racing the individual distances at the World Cups and World Championships. However, to my advantage I am very hungry this season and I'm able to play the underdog card because of the disappointment last year.”

What would you consider to be the highlight and greatest disappointment of the past season? 

“Of course I wished that I was healthy all last year, but I deal with it all the same. I think that it was pretty great that I showed up to my first World Cup of the year and take a silver medal to Ho-Suk. Also it was a great first to help the US to win relay gold at Worlds.”

How do you look forward to next season and to the Olympics in particular, especially after skating the Olympic Trials on a broken ankle four years ago? 

“Just hoping for an injury free and fair season... especially during the Trials. I'm just going to prepare myself as much as I can, then hope for the best. A little luck could help! =]”

What is the one thing/most memorable moment that sticks out for you when you think of the Olympics?

“I'll always remember 2002. Sitting at home sort of familiar with short track but not too enthusiastic about trying it. However, after watching Apolo I said to myself... ‘Finish your business here (inline) and move on.'”

How do you remember the last Olympics, in Torino?

“I was pretty disappointed with the Trials before. I was in Montreal training with Steve Gough and Mtr Inter team at the time. I remember watching every bit of the Games on Canadian and US TV. I just had to tell myself then and tell myself now... I have a lot to prove in 2010.”

Who would you consider to be the greatest Olympic speed skater ever? 

“It has to be Ahn. I have never seen anyone dominate like that and it was at the pinnacle of the four years... the Olympics. I can't say that I don't study every move he makes.”

We’re at the start of another Olympic season: is your training different from other years because of the Olympics? 

“Yes, it's time to go faster sooner. This time it's essential to be ready for the upcoming Olympic Trials.”

Can you describe what the Olympics mean to you? 

“This is my chance to represent where I'm from on the greatest stage of all.”