From the FasterSkier archive — posts syndicated from athletes’ and coaches’ own blogs between 2004 and 2012, kept online as published. Current coverage is at fasterskier.com.

Lahti Sprints Preview

When the skiers hit the start line, it will mark only 15 days until the end of another magical World Cup campaign. Last year saw the rise of North American male sprinters rise to form with both Newell and Kershaw making it to the A-final. Is a repeat performance on the horizon? With Newell only skiing two races (individual sprint and 4x10km relay) in Liberec, his legs should be really fresh for the race. The men’s field is packed with 87 athletes and all the usual suspects. The women’s side has 63 athletes but some notable absentees for tomorrow, particularly Saarinen. She has come down with the