Nikolay Strunnikov

Nikolay Strunnikov was born in Sknyatino[1] and quickly became a very enthusiastic and highly disciplined athlete, training daily.

After returning from work, he would always be on the ice at the same time every day to skate his rounds, regardless of weather conditions.

His enthusiasm and dedication paid off and in 1906, he won silver at the Russian National Allround Championships.

Still relatively unknown to the rest of the world, Strunnikov made his international debut at the European Allround Championships in 1910 and promptly won gold.

Much was expected from Strunnikov in 1912, but a disagreement with the sports association to which he belonged resulted in his retirement from speed skating.