Speedskater Keiichiro Nagashima said Friday he will turn his focus to racing the 500 meters as he aims to medal at the Vancouver Winter Olympics next February.
Nagashima came in second overall at the World Sprint Championships in January and won three World Cup titles in the 500 meters — his signature event — during the 2008-09 season. His performances in the 1,000 meters have not been nearly as solid.
"I really wanted to race in two events but I just can't compete at the same high level in the 1,000 meters. It is disappointing but I have to narrow it down to one," said Nagashima.
"I'm building a base now so I can go at full throttle in January next year."