Olympic speed skaters skate in pairs but are basically racing against the clock to get a better time than skaters in other heats.
The races are held on a 400 meter oval, and speed skaters must change lanes on the back straightaway of each lap.
The women's 5000M race became an event at the Winter Games in 1988. Germany has won gold four times, including three gold medals for Claudia Pechstein.
Women's 5000M Speedskating Medal Winners
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Olympic speed skaters skate in pairs but are basically racing against the clock to get a better time than skaters in other heats.