Lara van Ruijven (28 December 1992 – 10 July 2020) was a Dutch short track speed skater who competed internationally for the Netherlands. She specialized in the sprint distances and as a member of the national relay squad won medals at the highest level. Her career combined national success with podium performances at world championships and the Winter Olympic Games.
Early life and development
Born in Naaldwijk in the Netherlands, van Ruijven began skating at a young age and progressed through local clubs into national squads. Short track speed skating emphasizes tight corners and tactical sprinting on a 111.12 metre oval; van Ruijven was known for her explosive starts, technical cornering and competitive race instincts that suited the sport's quick, contact-prone format.
Career highlights
Van Ruijven represented the Netherlands at major international competitions and achieved several notable results. She was part of the Dutch 3000 metre relay team that won a bronze medal at the 2018 Winter Olympics, a high-profile accomplishment for the Dutch short track program. The following year she earned a gold medal at the 2019 World Short Track Speed Skating Championships, further establishing her among the sport's top sprinters.
- Olympics: Bronze medal, 3000 m relay, 2018.
- World Championships: Gold medal, 2019.
- National level: Regular contender at Dutch championships and World Cup events.
For more details on her competitive results and statistics see a dedicated athlete profile. Her performances contributed to the growing visibility of short track in the Netherlands, a country more widely known for long-track speed skating.
Illness and death
In late June 2020 van Ruijven became seriously ill while in Perpignan; she was hospitalized on 25 June. Reports indicated the illness was linked to an autoimmune condition and she received intensive care. She died on 10 July 2020 at the age of 27. Accounts of the event referenced her hospitalization in Perpignan and noted the medical circumstances concerned an autoimmune disease. Her passing occurred in France, where she had been staying.
Legacy and distinctions
Teammates, national federations and supporters paid tribute to van Ruijven after her death, recalling her competitive drive and contributions to relay success. She is remembered for helping the Netherlands remain competitive in short track relays and for earning medals on Olympic and world stages. Her career is often cited in discussions about the growth of short track in countries traditionally dominated by long-track speed skating.