2-time Olympian Ochowicz leads women’s 500 meters at US speedskating trials

Ochowicz leads after first round of 500 meters

MILWAUKEE — Elli Ochowicz leads after the first round of the women’s 500 meters at the U.S. speedskating trials.

Ochowicz, the daughter three-time Olympic medalist Sheila Young Ochowicz, finished in 39.34 seconds Wednesday night to begin her bid to make a third Olympic team. Heather Richardson, a 20-year-old from North Carolina, was second in 39.56. Two-time Olympic bronze medalist Jennifer Rodriguez took the third spot at 39.70.

Another round of heats will be held later Wednesday, with the combined times determining which skaters qualify for the World Cup season — a prerequisite for making the Olympic team.

(This version CORRECTS Corrects times for Richardson, Rodriguez to reflect scoring change. WILL be UPDATED after men’s first heat.)