Meet our Coaches

We have an elite team of coaches dedicated to helping you achieve your goal. Whether that goal is as simple as learning to speed skate, beating your last time trial, or making it all the way to the Olympics, our coaches will help you along the way. Meet the faces behind the team:

Chris Choi


An experienced short-track speed skating coach, Chris has Bachelor's in biomolecular science and kinesiology from University of Michigan. As a protege of Hyun Jung Lee, and firsthand training experience alongside national-level skaters, Chris has honed his personal expertise to guide numerous skaters to reach their best, competing in regional and national competitions. Combining the academic knowledge with the latest proven training methods, Chris provides a strong foundation for skaters of all ages and skill levels.

Gary Martin


Gary has skated for fun for years but started training and competing in 2008. He has been to many training camps around the country and is a U.S. Speedskating certified level 2 coach. He uses video feedback for skaters and can work with participants of all ages. Gary coached soccer for 14 years while his sons were playing in Park Ridge and enjoys biking in the forest preserves with his wife. When he is not skating he takes care of patients and teaches at Northwestern University Medical School where he also serves as Vice Chairman for Faculty Affairs for the Department of Medicine.

  • Former Northbrook Speedskating Head Coach
  • UCB (United Capital Blades) elite team
  • Certified Personal Trainer
  • US Speedskating level 1 certified coach.
  • Multiple times US Speedskating Short Track age group national champion
  • US Speedskating Short Track Masters Team
  • Holds multiple national & Illinois states age group records
  • 2025 Masters Internation Short Track Game - Overall & Distance World Champion (M70+)
  • US Speedskating level 2 certified coach.
Eddie Kim


Eddie has been skating with Park Ridge Speedskating Club since season 2011/12. He is eager to help anyone who wants to get better at skating. He believes athletes can be succeed when they put hard works with knowledge and understanding of proper training. (What to do or not to do).

  • 4 times US Speedskating Short Track age group national champion
  • 3 Times US Speedskating Short Track Masters Team
  • Holds multiple national & Illinois states age group records
  • 2025 Masters Internation Short Track Game - Overall 2nd & 500m World Champion (M55+)
  • Oldest US male short track skater who has been qualified & competed at Heartland racing series since 2022.
  • US Speedskating level 2 certified coach.
  • MasterSk8er - YouTube