A Very Pettit Homecoming
Photos submitted by Li.
Lari Li
20 Years Later
The ISU World Cup made its way back to Milwaukee at the Pettit National Ice Center for the first time in 20 years on the weekend of January 31 to February 2, 2025. There were sold-out tickets on all three days. Fans, family, and friends from all over the nation made their way to Wisconsin to support and watch the top athletes of the world at break-neck speeds. Pettit is one of only two covered 400-meter ovals in the country, making it vital to American speedskating for decades. Hosting an international event is a recognition of the Pettit’s legacy and its importance in global speedskating. This electrifying experience brought together the pinnacle of speedskating talent from all around the world.
A Revolving Door
The athletes did not disappoint. A revolving door of applause followed them as they zipped past. It never died down, even after hours of racing. Every athlete received encouragement from spectators sitting at the edges of their seats, regardless of nation. However, it was clear that Team USA on home ice was the main event. The audience was diverse, containing young aspiring skaters, speedskating enthusiasts, and Milwaukee locals who didn’t want to miss a new experience, though people coming from as far as Alabama. Welcoming the world’s best skaters here is a full-circle moment. Olympic champions Bonnie Blair, Dan Jansen, and Eric Heiden back in the house, making this World Cup a long-awaited homecoming. It is now confirmed that Pettit is to host the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympic Trials, where the best skaters in our country will compete to earn a spot on Team USA for the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympics. Athletes can be assured that their racing experience will be top-notch.
Hospitality
Pettit’s hospitality and spectator satisfaction was extremely thorough, and every potential possibility was thought of and addressed. Friendly staff and volunteers were great on an assortment of concessions as well as exclusive ISU World Cup merchandise. The announcers were great at keeping the audience engaged and excited. Right before each race, the arena was in such a hushed silence that you would never expect the stands to be packed. A revolving door of spectator encouragement followed the athletes around each lap, right from the moment the gun was fired. There were cowbells, plastic clapping hands, and shouts of encouragement. Everyone was invested in the race, even if the athletes were on the opposite side of the arena. A large results board made it easy to understand the current race, how speedskating works, and discover new athletes. Bleachers, podiums, and the results board were all strategically placed. The Olympic-sized rink windows were removed as well, allowing the best view of the track, and nobody seemed to be having a difficult or confusing time. Everyone was enjoying themselves and curious about the sport, discussing athletes, strategies, and race rules. The arena’s atmosphere was attentive and supportive on all three days, even from audience members that weren’t familiar with the sport.
What’s Next?
Watching top athletes compete on home ice is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Young skaters dream of one day representing their country on the same ice. The hope is that this event welcomes more opportunities and creates a love for sports in Milwaukee. Let the Pettit be a place where Olympic dreams are fostered and where the future is being written.
