Dmitry Sakunenko

Dmitry Sakunenko took up speed skating in 1948 and was on the Soviet national team from 1952-60. During his career, Sakunenko competed at the 1956 Olympics, placing 16th in the 5,000 metres; the 1954 and 1955 World All-Around Championships, finishing fifth and fourth, respectively, in all-around; and at the 1955, 1957 and 1958 European All-Around Championships, winning the all-around bronze in 1955. He also won two distance bronzes at the 1955 European Championships – in the 500 and 10,000 metres. Sakunenko set two world records during his career. At an international meet at Medeo on 9 January 1955, Sakunenko was the first person to skate 5,000 metres under eight minutes, clocking 7:54.9. In a later pair, Boris Shilkov improved this world record to 7:45.6. At the same competition Sakunenko also set a world all-around record with 184.638 points. Domestically Sakunenko won the Soviet all-around title in 1957 and the following distance medals at the Soviet Championships – silvers in 5,000 metres in 1952 and in 10,000 metres in 1952 and 1957 and bronze in 5,000 metres in 1953. After finishing his sporting career, Sakunenko worked as a speed skating coach with Trud Vladimir from 1960-72. From 1972-94 Sakunenko was a senior state inspector of fisheries for Vladimir Oblast. He also remained active in speed skating circles as a speed skating referee and organizer of competitions. He later was also a member of the Veterans Sports Council of Vladimir Oblast.

Personal Bests: 500 – 42.6 (1955); 1500 – 2:11.9 (1957); 5000 – 7:54.9 (1955); 10000 – 16:44.3 (1955).