Oscar Mathisen

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Oscar Wilhelm Mathisen (October 4, 1888 – April 10, 1954) was a Norwegian speed skater and celebrity, almost rivalling Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen as symbols for a young nation (Norway became independent in 1905).

Born in Kristiania (now Oslo), he grew up as the youngest of seven. He was National Champion at the age of 18, and became World Champion the year after, even when falling on the 500 meter event. During his career he set 18 world records; his 1,500 meter record from 1914 stood unrivalled for 23 years. He became World Champion five times {This becoming a record tied by Clas Thunberg} and European Champion three times.

After World War I, he became a professional skater and he was Professional World Champion in 1920. He continued his career until 1929.

His life ended tragically. Mathisen killed his wife and then himself after his wife had suffered from severe depressions for many years.

In 1959, a statue of Mathisen was erected outside of the Frogner Stadium in Oslo, where he celebrated many of his triumphs. Every year since 1959, the Oscar Mathisen Memorial Trophy is awarded to the most outstanding speed skating performance of the season.

**World Records**
Distance	Time	Rink	Date
1500 m Men	2.20,8	Davos	8 February 1908
1000 m Men	1.31,8	Davos	30 January 1909
1500 m Men	2.20,6	Davos	3 January 1910
500 m Men	44,2	Oslo	17 February 1912
10000 m Men	17.46,3	Oslo	18 February 1912
10000 m Men	17.36,4	Trondheim	25 January 1913
10000 m Men	17.22,6	Oslo	1 February 1913
500 m Men	44,0	Hamar	16 March 1913
500 m Men	43,7	Oslo	10 January 1914
1500 m Men	2.19,4	Oslo	11 January 1914
5000 m Men	8.36,6	Davos	17 January 1914
500 m Men	43,4	Davos	17 January 1914
1500 m Men	2.17,4	Davos	18 January 1914
5000 m Men	8.36,3	Oslo	23 January 1916