Nesbitt wins 3rd gold at speedskating nationals

Christine Nesbitt claimed the national women's 1,000-metre long-track speedskating title Saturday at the Canadian Single Distance Championships.

Nesbitt, who picked up her third victory over the weekend after taking gold in the 1,500 and 3,000-metre races, crossed the finish line in one minute 14.03 seconds.

Winnipeg's Brittany Schussler finished second in 1:16.18, while fellow Winnipeg skater Shannon Rempel was third (1:16.54).

"I had a good race today," said Nesbitt. "I would have liked to race a 1:13, but this is close enough. It's still one of the best times I've ever skated in the distance, with my fastest opener ever, so I'm pretty happy with it."

Cindy Klassen of Winnipeg pulled out of the race at the last minute in order to avoid aggravating a small injury suffered during warm-up.

Ivanie Blondin of Ottawa won the women's 5,000-metre title in 7:20.21, while Toronto's Jordan Belchos (13:53.41) came out victorious in the men's 10,000-metre.

Many of Canada's top contenders did not compete in those two races in order to rest for next week's continental championships.

The competition conclude Sunday at the Calgary Olympic Oval with the men's and women's 500-metre, which Nesbitt is expected to race in.