Additionally, the Pettit Center will hold a press conference to announce a prestigious international competition to be held at the facility in November. The press conference will take place on Thursday, October 20 at 11:00am

The Fall World Cup Qualifier starts at 9am on Friday, October 21 and will feature many notable names and Olympic medal winners. Some of the male skaters who will be racing at the Pettit Center include: Derek Parra, a 2002 Olympic Medallist; Verona, Wisconsin’s own gold medallist Casey FitzRandolph; local heroes Kip Carpenter, Nick Pearson and Janesville, Wisconsin’s Tucker Fredricks. Last December Fredricks set a new Pettit Center record in the 500-meter race.

Shani Davis, who is attempting to make U.S. Olympic history, will also be competing at the Pettit Center during the Fall World Cup Qualifier. Davis continues his journey to become the first male speed skater to compete for both the long track and short track teams in a Winter Olympics. Making Davis’ story even more compelling is the fact that he stands a good chance to medal in both disciplines.

The ladies field includes skaters such as Jennifer Rodriguez, a dual bronze medallist at the 2002 Olympics; Waukesha, Wisconsin native Elli Ochowicz; as well as multiple medal winner and hometown hero Chris Witty.

Once the Fall World Cup is complete on Monday, October 24, U.S. Speedskating will have its World Team set and ready for competition on the international circuit.

Fall World Cup Qualifier Schedule:

Friday, October 21 – 9am
Saturday, October 22 – 9am
Sunday, October 23 – 9am
Monday, October 24 – 9am