Women's 500m Short Track - Jessica Gregg

She's an amazing competitor. After being knocked down several times during starts and restarts of her 500m races, Jessica Gregg proved it's all about getting back up, every time.

Fourth place was to be the final result for Jessica in the 500m event. A result that is undoubtedly bitter-sweet. But truthfully, much more sweet than bitter. She put together a set of races that exemplified the fierce competitor she is. She can walk away from this event knowing that she came to compete - and compete she did. No regrets.

Lessons to learn? Certainly. Fired up for more? Absolutely. Like I said before, she gets back up every time.

It really comes down to perspective. What she accomplished was far more worthwhile than anything she may have missed out on. Even Jessica's father reminds her that you learn more from a loss than you do from a win.

From my perspective: A successful day for Jessica Gregg in the 500m.

As a coach I live every result with my skaters. My family and friends know it as well as I do. My own support system was in full swing at the end of the 500's. Veronick, the person who keeps me afloat in rough waters, was right there for me as always. I know she felt the gravity and emotion of the day as if she was wearing the skates herself. Still she had the presence and ability to help me feel victorious in all that Jessica had accomplished.

Congratulations to Marianne for a wonderful silver medal skate. Also to Kalyna for a set of races that challenged the best in the world to be at their best.

And to Jessica for getting back up.

JC