Dutch skater Sven Kramer wins 9th European Championship title

Skater Sven Kramer took the European all-round title on Sunday. This is the ninth individual victory for the three-time Olympic champion this winter, NU.nl reports.

"This is one of my best", Kramer said on Sunday. "The great atmosphere, every day packed grandstands in the new Thialf, it was a fantastic skating weekend."

Kramer entered the final 10 kilometers already 16.70 seconds ahead of his nearest rival Jan Blokhuijsen. At the end of the closing distance, he came out the winner with rounds of 29.7, 29.2 and 28.4. "The final lap was definitely enjoyable", Kramer said. "It gives a good feeling to do that in front of an enthusiastic audience. I'm glad I could do it again."

"I can not deny that it is going very well", the Dutch skater said about his nine titles. "I'm glad that I can prolong my career this way, it gives a feeling of Satisfaction. I currently have a lot of fun skating. I feel good, fresh, and the results are very good. That makes the sport fun."