FasterSkier

Category: XCFeeds

A collection of live feeds from cross-country ski blogs around the web.

  • Believe in skiing. CLICK HERE FOR MORE. (Jamie McDonald/Getty…

    img src=”http://26.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_kzjn0aNahQ1qzt3xbo1_500.jpg”/br/br/pBelieve in skiing.

  • Falun Pursuits

  • Mordarbacken 3.3km

    The big climb here in Falun is called the Mordarbacken. Todays race went up it 1.5 times.  We will race up the hill in the next two races also.    I look forward to hills.  Eespecially long steep ones like this.

    3.3km Prologue

    I felt good today. The coaches and techs did a great job helping me test skis and I went on a new pair of Salomons I had never skied on.  They were really good.  I had awesome skis, especially glide.   To my surprise, at 2.3km my 30-second man tracked me.  I moved over and prepared to stick on him and work like hell to beat him to the finish and regain the time I had already lost.  My skis were certainly faster.  We had a good battle to the finish.  I pulled away on the double pole but he came back in the final striding.  In the end I beat him to the line.

    A small victory considering he had put nearly 30 seconds on me.  I try to evaluate each race before I see results.  It is frustrating to be caught in such a short race (3.3km) but overall I felt good.    I had good skis and I paced the race well. I finished last.  I hate that.  I don’t know what to say or think about my race.

    My focus now is on the future races.  Tomorrow is a mass start 20km duathalon, a strong distance and format for me.   Right now I am stretching, rolling, relaxing and recovering to charge tomorrow.  New day. New Race.


    Newell

  • JackedUp Tour De Ski

    Training in the Dobiacco Stadium

    Between Dobiacco and Cortina

    What the heck a I doing not living here??

    Awards KLL

    Due to being to factors beyond our control. We were unable to attend the scheduled Tour De Ski. Of note our Board also considers the current format of to not be challenging and or tough.

    Location Italian and German Dolomites
    Consisted of some events then four days of Racing in two Countries. It was a six day event that comprised three days of over 40 miles of skiing.
    Three trips to Prato Piazza (Includes 4mile hill climb)with an around the Mtn Tour. 15km Mass Start Dobiacco World Cup Course, Sprint Relay, 25km Patrol Race, 42 KM Konig Ludwig Lauf.
    Arrive Munich Sunday mid morning acquire rental car, drive to Dobiacco Italy.
    Mon am 2+ Hour Skate Dobiacco xc Area reacquaint with course for race
    pm almost 4 hr Classic Ski almost to Prato Piazza MM accompanied
    Tues am Nearly 3hr skate trip up the valley to previous race course MM accompanied
    Wed am 15 km Mass Start Skate finished fifth overall won sprint against Italian for 5th overall
    pm Classic Ski Dobiacco Stadium to Platzo Piazza just under 4 hr Great 6km uphill to PlatzoPiazza
    Thurs am 4x 1km sprint relay Dobiacco Stadium finished fifth partner MM. The MM kicked Butt we were in a second pack with four guys in a pack out of reach. We had a tough fight with the Spanish team. for the first 3 laps the MM dropped about 30 ft behind the top Spanish skie r form the 15 km then, I would battle up to tag off equal for his lap. I was tired like hell from classic adventures but knew that I had to put out or hear how stupid I was skiing for mucho grande hours. On the Minnesota Machine’s last lap he managed to stay with the Spaniard giving me a shot of owning them. I took the lead going up the hill and sprinted like crazy to win (5th). We were psyched. Also I did not have to hear how stupid 6 hr day skiing days are.
    Immediately following Changed to classic and skied to Platzo Piazza then continued around the mountain range crossing a xc area then back down a long valley for a 5hr adventure albeit toast.
    The 2 Weiss Beers afterwards were the best beers of my life.
    Fri am 25 km Patrol race carrying teammates rifle then travel to Obergammagau Germany for Konig Ludwig Lauf.
    Sat am 42 km Konig Ludwig Lauf. Was starting to feel training tempo managed to finish 4th overall and take the World Medical Championships. Dinner with World Famous Ski Club then back to Munich to fly home.

  • JackedUp Tour De Ski

    Training in the Dobiacco Stadium

    Between Dobiacco and Cortina

    What the heck a I doing not living here??

    Awards KLL

    Due to being to factors beyond our control. We were unable to attend the scheduled Tour De Ski. Of note our Board also considers the current format of to not be challenging and or tough.

    Location Italian and German Dolomites
    Consisted of some events then four days of Racing in two Countries. It was a six day event that comprised three days of over 40 miles of skiing.
    Three trips to Prato Piazza (Includes 4mile hill climb)with an around the Mtn Tour. 15km Mass Start Dobiacco World Cup Course, Sprint Relay, 25km Patrol Race, 42 KM Konig Ludwig Lauf.
    Arrive Munich Sunday mid morning acquire rental car, drive to Dobiacco Italy.
    Mon am 2+ Hour Skate Dobiacco xc Area reacquaint with course for race
    pm almost 4 hr Classic Ski almost to Prato Piazza MM accompanied
    Tues am Nearly 3hr skate trip up the valley to previous race course MM accompanied
    Wed am 15 km Mass Start Skate finished fifth overall won sprint against Italian for 5th overall
    pm Classic Ski Dobiacco Stadium to Platzo Piazza just under 4 hr Great 6km uphill to PlatzoPiazza
    Thurs am 4x 1km sprint relay Dobiacco Stadium finished fifth partner MM. The MM kicked Butt we were in a second pack with four guys in a pack out of reach. We had a tough fight with the Spanish team. for the first 3 laps the MM dropped about 30 ft behind the top Spanish skie r form the 15 km then, I would battle up to tag off equal for his lap. I was tired like hell from classic adventures but knew that I had to put out or hear how stupid I was skiing for mucho grande hours. On the Minnesota Machine’s last lap he managed to stay with the Spaniard giving me a shot of owning them. I took the lead going up the hill and sprinted like crazy to win (5th). We were psyched. Also I did not have to hear how stupid 6 hr day skiing days are.
    Immediately following Changed to classic and skied to Platzo Piazza then continued around the mountain range crossing a xc area then back down a long valley for a 5hr adventure albeit toast.
    The 2 Weiss Beers afterwards were the best beers of my life.
    Fri am 25 km Patrol race carrying teammates rifle then travel to Obergammagau Germany for Konig Ludwig Lauf.
    Sat am 42 km Konig Ludwig Lauf. Was starting to feel training tempo managed to finish 4th overall and take the World Medical Championships. Dinner with World Famous Ski Club then back to Munich to fly home.

  • JackedUp Tour De Ski

    Training in the Dobiacco Stadium

    Between Dobiacco and Cortina

    What the heck a I doing not living here??

    Awards KLL

    Due to being to factors beyond our control. We were unable to attend the scheduled Tour De Ski. Of note our Board also considers the current format of to not be challenging and or tough.

    Location Italian and German Dolomites
    Consisted of some events then four days of Racing in two Countries. It was a six day event that comprised three days of over 40 miles of skiing.
    Three trips to Prato Piazza (Includes 4mile hill climb)with an around the Mtn Tour. 15km Mass Start Dobiacco World Cup Course, Sprint Relay, 25km Patrol Race, 42 KM Konig Ludwig Lauf.
    Arrive Munich Sunday mid morning acquire rental car, drive to Dobiacco Italy.
    Mon am 2+ Hour Skate Dobiacco xc Area reacquaint with course for race
    pm almost 4 hr Classic Ski almost to Prato Piazza MM accompanied
    Tues am Nearly 3hr skate trip up the valley to previous race course MM accompanied
    Wed am 15 km Mass Start Skate finished fifth overall won sprint against Italian for 5th overall
    pm Classic Ski Dobiacco Stadium to Platzo Piazza just under 4 hr Great 6km uphill to PlatzoPiazza
    Thurs am 4x 1km sprint relay Dobiacco Stadium finished fifth partner MM. The MM kicked Butt we were in a second pack with four guys in a pack out of reach. We had a tough fight with the Spanish team. for the first 3 laps the MM dropped about 30 ft behind the top Spanish skie r form the 15 km then, I would battle up to tag off equal for his lap. I was tired like hell from classic adventures but knew that I had to put out or hear how stupid I was skiing for mucho grande hours. On the Minnesota Machine’s last lap he managed to stay with the Spaniard giving me a shot of owning them. I took the lead going up the hill and sprinted like crazy to win (5th). We were psyched. Also I did not have to hear how stupid 6 hr day skiing days are.
    Immediately following Changed to classic and skied to Platzo Piazza then continued around the mountain range crossing a xc area then back down a long valley for a 5hr adventure albeit toast.
    The 2 Weiss Beers afterwards were the best beers of my life.
    Fri am 25 km Patrol race carrying teammates rifle then travel to Obergammagau Germany for Konig Ludwig Lauf.
    Sat am 42 km Konig Ludwig Lauf. Was starting to feel training tempo managed to finish 4th overall and take the World Medical Championships. Dinner with World Famous Ski Club then back to Munich to fly home.

  • JackedUp Tour De Ski

    Training in the Dobiacco Stadium

    Between Dobiacco and Cortina

    What the heck a I doing not living here??

    Awards KLL

    Due to being to factors beyond our control. We were unable to attend the scheduled Tour De Ski. Of note our Board also considers the current format of to not be challenging and or tough.

    Location Italian and German Dolomites
    Consisted of some events then four days of Racing in two Countries. It was a six day event that comprised three days of over 40 miles of skiing.
    Three trips to Prato Piazza (Includes 4mile hill climb)with an around the Mtn Tour. 15km Mass Start Dobiacco World Cup Course, Sprint Relay, 25km Patrol Race, 42 KM Konig Ludwig Lauf.
    Arrive Munich Sunday mid morning acquire rental car, drive to Dobiacco Italy.
    Mon am 2+ Hour Skate Dobiacco xc Area reacquaint with course for race
    pm almost 4 hr Classic Ski almost to Prato Piazza MM accompanied
    Tues am Nearly 3hr skate trip up the valley to previous race course MM accompanied
    Wed am 15 km Mass Start Skate finished fifth overall won sprint against Italian for 5th overall
    pm Classic Ski Dobiacco Stadium to Platzo Piazza just under 4 hr Great 6km uphill to PlatzoPiazza
    Thurs am 4x 1km sprint relay Dobiacco Stadium finished fifth partner MM. The MM kicked Butt we were in a second pack with four guys in a pack out of reach. We had a tough fight with the Spanish team. for the first 3 laps the MM dropped about 30 ft behind the top Spanish skie r form the 15 km then, I would battle up to tag off equal for his lap. I was tired like hell from classic adventures but knew that I had to put out or hear how stupid I was skiing for mucho grande hours. On the Minnesota Machine’s last lap he managed to stay with the Spaniard giving me a shot of owning them. I took the lead going up the hill and sprinted like crazy to win (5th). We were psyched. Also I did not have to hear how stupid 6 hr day skiing days are.
    Immediately following Changed to classic and skied to Platzo Piazza then continued around the mountain range crossing a xc area then back down a long valley for a 5hr adventure albeit toast.
    The 2 Weiss Beers afterwards were the best beers of my life.
    Fri am 25 km Patrol race carrying teammates rifle then travel to Obergammagau Germany for Konig Ludwig Lauf.
    Sat am 42 km Konig Ludwig Lauf. Was starting to feel training tempo managed to finish 4th overall and take the World Medical Championships. Dinner with World Famous Ski Club then back to Munich to fly home.

  • Prato Piazza

    Suffering Alpiini Troops
    probably a 25km ski up a valley for them.

    The Fort at the Top

    Enjoying the Scene



    Location Skier’s Paradise Pustertal Region Dolomites. Circa Early February 2010

    This place was my destination of the evening 3 out 5 nights while contesting the the Alpiini Ski Championships in Dobiacco, Italy. The skiing there is phenomenal. There are ski highways all over the place. One can ski till they are totally exhausted very easily. During normal operating hours one can stop along the way and have espresso and kuchen to refuel. I found out on my second journey when returning by artificial daylight that the groomer gets quite agitated upon finding crazed American skier rocking out.
    This being my third trip to the the region having already made the amazing journey from Dobiacco to Cortina a few times, on my first late afternoon adventure along with the Minnesota machine when we reached the high point on the way to Cortina we crossed the road and started up the Climb to Prato Piazza. Unfortunately we turned around about a mile unbeknownst to us from the top. That was Mon Night it was getting dark and it looked like we were almost there. Still am almost 4hr ski returning in the dark with no light. THen on Wed after a 15km Mass start I went up again late afternoon, solo. Another superb classic ski toko Blue great kick. Got up to the Fort after a 4 mile climb just at dusk changed clothes powered up the NightRider artificial daylight and came back the way I came. Did not go to the exact high point was planning on a 30 mile ski the next afternoon with the MN Machine.
    Thurs after Sprint relay finished fifth great performance from MN MAchine. Unfortunately I went on epic ski with al my friends. Had a blast started at nigh noon and circumnavigated the mountain’s above the venue. Stopped at the Cafe at the top and had an espresso. Then jammed across and down the other side of the pass. I thought I was getting tired until I passed those Alpiini soldiers finishing there patrol race. They were suffering.
    It ended up being an over 30 mile classic ski. But it was worth it.

  • Prato Piazza

    Suffering Alpiini Troops
    probably a 25km ski up a valley for them.

    The Fort at the Top

    Enjoying the Scene



    Location Skier’s Paradise Pustertal Region Dolomites. Circa Early February 2010

    This place was my destination of the evening 3 out 5 nights while contesting the the Alpiini Ski Championships in Dobiacco, Italy. The skiing there is phenomenal. There are ski highways all over the place. One can ski till they are totally exhausted very easily. During normal operating hours one can stop along the way and have espresso and kuchen to refuel. I found out on my second journey when returning by artificial daylight that the groomer gets quite agitated upon finding crazed American skier rocking out.
    This being my third trip to the the region having already made the amazing journey from Dobiacco to Cortina a few times, on my first late afternoon adventure along with the Minnesota machine when we reached the high point on the way to Cortina we crossed the road and started up the Climb to Prato Piazza. Unfortunately we turned around about a mile unbeknownst to us from the top. That was Mon Night it was getting dark and it looked like we were almost there. Still am almost 4hr ski returning in the dark with no light. THen on Wed after a 15km Mass start I went up again late afternoon, solo. Another superb classic ski toko Blue great kick. Got up to the Fort after a 4 mile climb just at dusk changed clothes powered up the NightRider artificial daylight and came back the way I came. Did not go to the exact high point was planning on a 30 mile ski the next afternoon with the MN Machine.
    Thurs after Sprint relay finished fifth great performance from MN MAchine. Unfortunately I went on epic ski with al my friends. Had a blast started at nigh noon and circumnavigated the mountain’s above the venue. Stopped at the Cafe at the top and had an espresso. Then jammed across and down the other side of the pass. I thought I was getting tired until I passed those Alpiini soldiers finishing there patrol race. They were suffering.
    It ended up being an over 30 mile classic ski. But it was worth it.

  • Prato Piazza

    Suffering Alpiini Troops
    probably a 25km ski up a valley for them.

    The Fort at the Top

    Enjoying the Scene



    Location Skier’s Paradise Pustertal Region Dolomites. Circa Early February 2010

    This place was my destination of the evening 3 out 5 nights while contesting the the Alpiini Ski Championships in Dobiacco, Italy. The skiing there is phenomenal. There are ski highways all over the place. One can ski till they are totally exhausted very easily. During normal operating hours one can stop along the way and have espresso and kuchen to refuel. I found out on my second journey when returning by artificial daylight that the groomer gets quite agitated upon finding crazed American skier rocking out.
    This being my third trip to the the region having already made the amazing journey from Dobiacco to Cortina a few times, on my first late afternoon adventure along with the Minnesota machine when we reached the high point on the way to Cortina we crossed the road and started up the Climb to Prato Piazza. Unfortunately we turned around about a mile unbeknownst to us from the top. That was Mon Night it was getting dark and it looked like we were almost there. Still am almost 4hr ski returning in the dark with no light. THen on Wed after a 15km Mass start I went up again late afternoon, solo. Another superb classic ski toko Blue great kick. Got up to the Fort after a 4 mile climb just at dusk changed clothes powered up the NightRider artificial daylight and came back the way I came. Did not go to the exact high point was planning on a 30 mile ski the next afternoon with the MN Machine.
    Thurs after Sprint relay finished fifth great performance from MN MAchine. Unfortunately I went on epic ski with al my friends. Had a blast started at nigh noon and circumnavigated the mountain’s above the venue. Stopped at the Cafe at the top and had an espresso. Then jammed across and down the other side of the pass. I thought I was getting tired until I passed those Alpiini soldiers finishing there patrol race. They were suffering.
    It ended up being an over 30 mile classic ski. But it was worth it.

  • Prato Piazza

    Suffering Alpiini Troops
    probably a 25km ski up a valley for them.

    The Fort at the Top

    Enjoying the Scene



    Location Skier’s Paradise Pustertal Region Dolomites. Circa Early February 2010

    This place was my destination of the evening 3 out 5 nights while contesting the the Alpiini Ski Championships in Dobiacco, Italy. The skiing there is phenomenal. There are ski highways all over the place. One can ski till they are totally exhausted very easily. During normal operating hours one can stop along the way and have espresso and kuchen to refuel. I found out on my second journey when returning by artificial daylight that the groomer gets quite agitated upon finding crazed American skier rocking out.
    This being my third trip to the the region having already made the amazing journey from Dobiacco to Cortina a few times, on my first late afternoon adventure along with the Minnesota machine when we reached the high point on the way to Cortina we crossed the road and started up the Climb to Prato Piazza. Unfortunately we turned around about a mile unbeknownst to us from the top. That was Mon Night it was getting dark and it looked like we were almost there. Still am almost 4hr ski returning in the dark with no light. THen on Wed after a 15km Mass start I went up again late afternoon, solo. Another superb classic ski toko Blue great kick. Got up to the Fort after a 4 mile climb just at dusk changed clothes powered up the NightRider artificial daylight and came back the way I came. Did not go to the exact high point was planning on a 30 mile ski the next afternoon with the MN Machine.
    Thurs after Sprint relay finished fifth great performance from MN MAchine. Unfortunately I went on epic ski with al my friends. Had a blast started at nigh noon and circumnavigated the mountain’s above the venue. Stopped at the Cafe at the top and had an espresso. Then jammed across and down the other side of the pass. I thought I was getting tired until I passed those Alpiini soldiers finishing there patrol race. They were suffering.
    It ended up being an over 30 mile classic ski. But it was worth it.

  • Poor Performance Results in Extensive Extended Altitude Training Camp: The President is sending me to classified location to prepare for what’s next?

    After living the the life of a Ski Nomad. With sorties in Finland, Canada, Germany, Italy and a campaign in the US, traveling the World awaiting for self proclaimed TWD.

    Just as Putin has called for accountablility and resignation of all Russian coaches. They have held me accountable for poor performances. They are replacing me with another Jacked Up Idiot. They may encounter difficulty replacing the irreplaceable Jacked Up. But of course I wish them Good Luck!!
    Next stop Classified for an extended training camp.

  • Poor Performance Results in Extensive Extended Altitude Training Camp: The President is sending me to classified location to prepare for what’s next?

    After living the the life of a Ski Nomad. With sorties in Finland, Canada, Germany, Italy and a campaign in the US, traveling the World awaiting for self proclaimed TWD.

    Just as Putin has called for accountablility and resignation of all Russian coaches. They have held me accountable for poor performances. They are replacing me with another Jacked Up Idiot. They may encounter difficulty replacing the irreplaceable Jacked Up. But of course I wish them Good Luck!!
    Next stop Classified for an extended training camp.

  • Poor Performance Results in Extensive Extended Altitude Training Camp: The President is sending me to classified location to prepare for what’s next?

    After living the the life of a Ski Nomad. With sorties in Finland, Canada, Germany, Italy and a campaign in the US, traveling the World awaiting for self proclaimed TWD.

    Just as Putin has called for accountablility and resignation of all Russian coaches. They have held me accountable for poor performances. They are replacing me with another Jacked Up Idiot. They may encounter difficulty replacing the irreplaceable Jacked Up. But of course I wish them Good Luck!!
    Next stop Classified for an extended training camp.

  • Poor Performance Results in Extensive Extended Altitude Training Camp: The President is sending me to classified location to prepare for what’s next?

    After living the the life of a Ski Nomad. With sorties in Finland, Canada, Germany, Italy and a campaign in the US, traveling the World awaiting for self proclaimed TWD.

    Just as Putin has called for accountablility and resignation of all Russian coaches. They have held me accountable for poor performances. They are replacing me with another Jacked Up Idiot. They may encounter difficulty replacing the irreplaceable Jacked Up. But of course I wish them Good Luck!!
    Next stop Classified for an extended training camp.

  • Poor Performance Results in Extensive Extended Altitude Training Camp: The President is sending me to classified location to prepare for what’s next?

    After living the the life of a Ski Nomad. With sorties in Finland, Canada, Germany, Italy and a campaign in the US, traveling the World awaiting for self proclaimed TWD.

    Just as Putin has called for accountablility and resignation of all Russian coaches. They have held me accountable for poor performances. They are replacing me with another Jacked Up Idiot. They may encounter difficulty replacing the irreplaceable Jacked Up. But of course I wish them Good Luck!!
    Next stop Classified for an extended training camp.

  • Solda Performance Series

    All over the world those who wax skis for both nordic and alpine racing are familiar with Solda HP05. National teams buy it and use it for cold, transformed snow in conditions of high humidity. br /br /There are many other Solda waxes that may be less well known, but no less effective. Locals in Bend who come into our shop are always asking about a good wax for training and recreational skiing that is not too expensive. The answer is easy. The Performance World Cup series comes in three flavors. Green for cold snow, Red for most snow, Yellow for the warm days. You don’t need snow thermometers or barometers to figure out which to use. The temperature ranges overlap at the upper and lower ends. You can go outside, or to the website of your skiing destination and see what the weather looks like. There are temperature ranges on the packages (the same is true for all other Solda waxes). Here in the shop we use the Solda Perfromance Red for nearly all of our wax service business because it has a wide range and runs well in most all snow conditions. br /br /The other go-to wax for us is Solda UF7. It is a Universal low Flouro wax with a wide range too. I have used it as a race wax before and won my age group. As I prep skis for race day, I usually start with at base of a mix of Perfromance Red and UF7 50/50. I scrape and brush this and then apply the race wax over the top. These waxes saturate the bases well and provide the hydrocarbon/fluorocarbon mix that the more highly fluorinated waxes can bond to. br /br /Waxing skis for fun and glide does not have to be complicated. Check the website for glide wax to see these and other wax options. br /br /I hope you have some good spring skiing ahead of you.br /br /Bertdiv class=”blogger-post-footer”img width=’1′ height=’1′ src=’https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/6589659500745667109-8819384086590834330?l=www.webskis.com%2Fwebskisblog.html’ alt=” //div

  • Crust cruising on frozen potato fields and racing

    a onblur=”try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}” href=”http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_k1DHbqzFvCE/S6POvoGbJrI/AAAAAAAAA7E/NGHKgxRDNRM/s1600-h/IMG_1098.JPG”img style=”display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;” src=”http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_k1DHbqzFvCE/S6POvoGbJrI/AAAAAAAAA7E/NGHKgxRDNRM/s400/IMG_1098.JPG” border=”0″ alt=”” id=”BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450427291661969074″ //abr /div style=”text-align: left;”span class=”Apple-style-span” style=”color:#0000EE;”span class=”Apple-style-span” style=”color: rgb(0, 0, 0); “Today was a training day in between yesterday’s Sprint and tomorrow’s Pursuit, and a good day to take advantage of freezing temps overnight and clear blue skies this morning. A huge crew ventured up to the open, frozen fields on top of the Perley Brook Roads to ski on the perfect spring snow crust. The effortless and open range skiing was a nice change after racing in slushy conditions in yesterday’s sprint./span/span/divdiv style=”text-align: center;”a onblur=”try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}” href=”http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_k1DHbqzFvCE/S6PMNA7AW-I/AAAAAAAAA6k/dP63mDmcoDo/s1600-h/IMG_1105.JPG”br //a/divdiv style=”text-align: center;”a onblur=”try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}” href=”http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_k1DHbqzFvCE/S6PMMj0JsKI/AAAAAAAAA6c/OiBfKep2ETQ/s1600-h/IMG_1098.JPG”img style=”display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;” src=”http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_k1DHbqzFvCE/S6PMMIpWAmI/AAAAAAAAA6U/lvs_IfVDtWw/s320/IMG_1092.JPG” border=”0″ alt=”” id=”BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450424482899821154″ //a/divdiv style=”text-align: center;”span class=”Apple-style-span” style=”font-size:small;”Teammate Annelies, and I./span/divdiv style=”text-align: center;”span class=”Apple-style-span” style=”font-size:small;”br //span/diva onblur=”try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}” href=”http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_k1DHbqzFvCE/S6PMLokAjwI/AAAAAAAAA6M/XfXFe3ku1FM/s1600-h/IMG_1087.JPG”img style=”display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;” src=”http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_k1DHbqzFvCE/S6PMLokAjwI/AAAAAAAAA6M/XfXFe3ku1FM/s320/IMG_1087.JPG” border=”0″ alt=”” id=”BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450424474287509250″ //adiv style=”text-align: center;”span class=”Apple-style-span” style=”font-size:small;”The southern Maine contingent./span/divdiv style=”text-align: center;”span class=”Apple-style-span” style=”font-size:small;”br //span/diva onblur=”try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}” href=”http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_k1DHbqzFvCE/S6PMLIPLcmI/AAAAAAAAA6E/KL7Te9V0nsY/s1600-h/IMG_1082.JPG”img style=”display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;” src=”http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_k1DHbqzFvCE/S6PMLIPLcmI/AAAAAAAAA6E/KL7Te9V0nsY/s320/IMG_1082.JPG” border=”0″ alt=”” id=”BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450424465610207842″ //adiv style=”text-align: center;”span class=”Apple-style-span” style=”font-size:small;”Teammates Annelies and Walt./span/divdivbr //divdivspan class=”Apple-style-span” style=”color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; “img src=”http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_k1DHbqzFvCE/S6PNuE5OXoI/AAAAAAAAA6s/1SAQOD6boVk/s320/IMG_1079.JPG” border=”0″ alt=”” id=”BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450426165519867522″ style=”display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; ” //span/divspan class=”Apple-style-span” style=”color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; “img src=”http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_k1DHbqzFvCE/S6PNuVzDJkI/AAAAAAAAA60/c0PWFktb7sE/s320/IMG_1100.JPG” border=”0″ alt=”” id=”BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450426170057369154″ style=”display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; ” //spandivspan class=”Apple-style-span” style=”color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; “img src=”http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_k1DHbqzFvCE/S6PMNA7AW-I/AAAAAAAAA6k/dP63mDmcoDo/s320/IMG_1105.JPG” border=”0″ alt=”” id=”BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450424498006285282″ style=”display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; ” //span/divdiv style=”text-align: center;”span class=”Apple-style-span” style=”font-size:small;”Melinda and I skiing through the birches/spanspan class=”Apple-style-span” style=”font-size:small;”./span/divdiv style=”text-align: center;”span class=”Apple-style-span” style=”font-size:small;”br //span/divdiv style=”text-align: left;”span class=”Apple-style-span” style=”font-size:medium;”North American and US Biathlon Championships will continue this weekend with a Pursuit and Mass Start./span/divdiv style=”text-align: left;”span class=”Apple-style-span” style=”font-size:medium;”

  • Munich to Quebec

    Whew! The past couple days have been a bit of whirlwind. The travel from Munich to Quebec went well, although I did not receive my bags! I am in the midst of trying to figure out 1) where they are 2) how I’m going to get them! Since I flew into Quebec and I am staying in Fort Kent, Maine, they cannot deliver my bags over the border! I am on day 4 of not having my bags and I am ready for some new clothes! Luckily, I have some nice friends who have been kind enough to loan me some stuff. Thanks so much!br /br /Despite the lost bag, I’ve been enjoying the skiing in Fort Kent! The snow is not nearly as plentiful as it usually is this time of year. Temperatures are reaching high 40’s and into the 50’s, making for some really soft, mooshy snow! Rain is in the forecast, but hopefully the snow won’t disappear. br /br /The rest of my team arrives late Sunday night and the racing begins Wednesday March 24th with the 30/50k freestyle race. I will keep you posted on how it goes!br /br /Cheers!div class=”blogger-post-footer”img width=’1′ height=’1′ src=’https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5903545846797966075-3368177441991382659?l=in-the-arena-nicole.blogspot.com’ alt=” //div

  • One Last Push

    div style=”text-align: center;”a onblur=”try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}” href=”http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9xNJ4bEswds/S6NYBPGow0I/AAAAAAAAAn4/eL1f_DZUp6U/s1600-h/IMGP3086.jpg”img style=”display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;” src=”http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_9xNJ4bEswds/S6NYBPGow0I/AAAAAAAAAn4/eL1f_DZUp6U/s320/IMGP3086.jpg” alt=”” id=”BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450296752305914690″ border=”0″ //aspan style=”font-size:85%;”The Holmenkollen Ski jump from the biathlon stadium.br //span/divbr /I have been terribly delinquent in updating my blog the past weeks, but in my defense, things have been a bit crazy.br /br /Right after the Olympics I traveled home to Boise for one day (yes, I know it sounds crazy, but even being home for just one day was so refreshing). I then returned to the OTC in Lake Placid for 5 days of training (which were rudely interrupted by sickness) before flying off to Europe for the last couple World Cup Races. I left Lake Placid last Monday morning and arrived in Kontiolahti, Finland Tuesday late afternoon. We trained Wednesday and Thursday and then raced Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Monday we traveled to Oslo, where I currently am, and raced yesterday and will race again (for the last time this year) tomorrow. Whew, makes me tired just thinking about all the travel I’ve done lately!br /br /div style=”text-align: center;”a onblur=”try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}” href=”http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9xNJ4bEswds/S6NX-bscrSI/AAAAAAAAAno/RYfhOYqjuK8/s1600-h/IMGP3063.jpg”img style=”display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;” src=”http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9xNJ4bEswds/S6NX-bscrSI/AAAAAAAAAno/RYfhOYqjuK8/s320/IMGP3063.jpg” alt=”” id=”BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450296704146124066″ border=”0″ //aspan style=”font-size:85%;”Skinny tires on snow? No problem in Finland.br //span/divbr /However much travel it’s been, though, it’s been more than worth it. While sickness and jetlag made optimal performance tough in Finland, I was still able to gain some valuable experience. We had a mixed relay which gave me another opportunity to mass start against some of the best, and I made the pursuit which gave me another start there to add to my experience level. Yesterday’s sprint here in Oslo/Holmenkollen went a bit better. I felt much better skiing, and finished 46th-qualifying me for the pursuit and putting me only 10 seconds from top 40 (World Cup points). The pursuit race on Saturday will be exciting, and hopefully I’ll be able to finish the season on a high note!br /br /div style=”text-align: center;”a onblur=”try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}” href=”http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9xNJ4bEswds/S6NYBj3YuwI/AAAAAAAAAoA/J_emqe8dzFA/s1600-h/IMGP3085.jpg”img style=”display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;” src=”http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_9xNJ4bEswds/S6NYBj3YuwI/AAAAAAAAAoA/J_emqe8dzFA/s320/IMGP3085.jpg” alt=”” id=”BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450296757879094018″ border=”0″ //aspan style=”font-size:85%;”Oslo biathlon range, with a view of the controversial behind-the-range finish loop.br //span/divbr /Whatever the outcome tomorrow, this has been an amazing season for me. Between making the Olympic Team, having some great results, and learning so much just being on the World Cup circuit, I know I have progressed a ton in these past few months. And while I’m looking forward to some rest and time away from biathlon after these races are done, I’m also really looking forward to next season and improving from this start point.br /br /div style=”text-align: center;”a onblur=”try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}” href=”http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9xNJ4bEswds/S6NX-9zus2I/AAAAAAAAAnw/En9PNbs_tyQ/s1600-h/IMGP3078.jpg”img style=”display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;” src=”http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_9xNJ4bEswds/S6NX-9zus2I/AAAAAAAAAnw/En9PNbs_tyQ/s320/IMGP3078.jpg” alt=”” id=”BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450296713303470946″ border=”0″ //aspan style=”font-size:85%;”View of Oslo from our hotel window (it’s currently too foggy to even see the trees, but when it’s clear, the view’s amazing!)/spanbr //divdiv class=”blogger-post-footer”img width=’1′ height=’1′ src=’https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5588342252406387658-1323246433920348085?l=sarastudebaker.blogspot.com’ alt=” //div