Trials Day Two: Experience just as intense for fans

Photo by John Steppe

The U.S. Olympic Long Track Speedskating Trials coincide with the Pettit National Ice Center's 25th anniversary.

Tom Riley has been involved in speedskating for more than 40 years as a coach and skater. This year is his first as a spectator.

“It’s a lot easier being here watching, but it brings a lot different smile to my face watching everybody else from this view,” Riley said. “It’s a lot of fun to see from this side, being in the bleachers.”

Excitement and nervousness were common emotions among Riley and other spectactors sitting in the bleachers at the Pettit National Ice Center in Milwaukee Wednesday afternoon for the second day of the Long Track Speedskating Olympic…