Published: Tue Nov 11, 2008 2:00 AM MST
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Published: Sun Sep 21, 2008 2:00 AM MDT
HAYWARD, WI - This past weekend began for the CXC Elite Team and staff with educational seminars presented by CXC equipment sponsors Salomon and One Way covering the industries latest additions and technologies.
CXC Elite Athletes then worked three hour shifts throughout the weekend at key Nordic retailers Finn Sisu, Gear West and Hoigaards.
Jan Guenther, Gear West store owner complimented CXC. We really appreciated having the CXC Elite Team skiers, Andy Gerlach and Bryan Fish at the store for our yearly Ski Sale. Their presence the entire weekend- Fri eve, Sat and Sunday-really added to the festivity. Both Johanna Winters and Garrott Kuzzy mingled with the customers and jumped right into a hectic sales situation. We really appreciated the extra help and the willingness of the Elite skiers to give it their all on the sales floor.
Tom Novak, Finn Sisu Store Manager commented, We've been doing our 'Blue Awning Sale' for three years, and this has been our best. This year we were able to compliment our staff with CXC Elite Team athletes to provide additional sales help and expertise. Our customers satisfaction showed at the cash register and with many thanks for all the great help.
Thanks for sending members of the CXC Elite Team to help at Hoigaards 41st Annual Tent Sale. They were great working with customers and are a credit to both the CXC Elite Team and to CXC sponsors especially Salomon and One Way. It was a pleasure to have Yuriy Gusev and Bryan Fish here as well. We will be cheering for the team during the upcoming race season Andy Turnbull, Hoigaards Operations Manager.
The next stop for the CXC Elite Team athletes will be in southern Wisconsin at Fontana Sports on the west side of the Madison, WI on November 1 & 2 and Bicycle Doctor in Dousman, WI on November 8 & 9.
Fontana Sports is pleased to team up with Yuri Gusev, Salomon and CXC Elite Team athletes to show our continued support for Nordic skiing, one of the most exciting and beneficial sports, commented John B. Hutchinson, president of Fontana Sports. People of all ages and abilities, from racers to novice are invited to view new equipment for 2009 as well as great blow out deals on last years products. We will also have specials on poles, waxes and Nordic accessories on the weekend of November 1st and 2nd at our West location, 7948 Tree Lane, Madison. We are a local shop and have supported the MadNorSki club since its inception. Please visit us to see what we have in store for 2009.
Local skiers will have an opportunity to have their skis selected using the Solomon 3D Ski Flex Mat, exclusively provided to Fontana Sports and Bicycle Doctor for these weekends.
Source: CXC
Andy Gerlach, Salomon sales manager, discusses products with store personnel and CXC athletes and staff
Andy Gerlach fitting new skis
Brian Gregg discussing gear with customers
Fitting new Salomon boots
CXC Head Coach Bryan Fish describes skis
Garrott Kuzzy helps a customer
Kristina Owen provides technique pointers
By Janice Sibilia
Published: Thu Aug 21, 2008 2:00 AM MDT
Murray Banks is a master ski racer, motivational speaker and Nordic ski coach. He has competed for many years in cross country skiing and most recently competed in the World Masters Championships last year in McCall, ID. Murray can also be seen racing in New England as well as coaching skiers from the Mt. Mansfield Club in Vermont.
1. Murray, you are on the road a lot with your career, motivating others. I know how challenging it can be to stay focused on training when you travel so much…how do you find the time and what gives you your own motivation to do it?
While I travel extensively and it is time consuming, my time is very flexible; when I'm not traveling, I can work or train any time. I often work several hours at my desk, then train, then back to the desk. If the weather is super nice, I can work at night. So, the key for me is to look at the week ahead, block out when I can't train, then pack in as much as I can the other days! I think my primary motivation is that I enjoy being active outdoors and rarely find training arduous.
2. Do you practice any time management techniques that you find particularly helpful?
Not as well as I should… I'm a little too spontaneous to do time management well. I try to look at my week, determine the times most advantageous to get good training in, then do the best I can to make it happen.
3. You have been coaching juniors and masters for the Mt Mansfield Nordic Club. Your enthusiasm is contagious and ha a very positive effect on these skiers. What do you personally take away from coaching that you feel helps you in your own racing and training?
When you teach something, you learn it. Coaching has forced me to understand training & racing at a much higher level than I would otherwise. Also, I really enjoy teaching and coaching injects energy into my training that might otherwise become monotonous.
4. Do you train differently now than say, 15 or 20 years ago? How has your focus changed over the years?
As every master's athlete has realized, we don't recover as well. Where I used to be able to do the old “hard-easy” schedule, now I have to pay more attention to integrating easier training with harder speed, strength & power training. It takes more work, but my training is more balanced than before. I do more specific strength & power and more technique work than in the old days. While it takes more planning & coordination, it makes training more interesting and diverse. I have really enjoyed an increased emphasis strength training and I utilize easier days to focus on technique, which I didn't do much of 10 years ago.
5. Will your training differ this summer and fall from last year?
Slightly… because the McCall course at MWC was flatter, rolling terrain, last year I emphasized upper body strength for a good start, speed for the stadium sprint finishes and v2 for drafting and cruising in the pack; while that all worked out well, I did not feel as strong in the hills late in the race. so, this year I will incorporate more leg strength and long hill work and spenst.
6. How many hours do you train per year?
Not sure, I don't keep an accurate log. A big week would be approximately 12 hours, an average week would be 8-9 hours. But it varies significantly with my work… I might get 4-5 hours in a busy work week, but 13-14 hours in a week I don't have to travel. I've tried to keep a log, but I'm not consistent about it.
7. What percent of that is specific ski training, compared to bike riding, running, etc..?
Summer: mostly biking, trail running, hiking, swmming, with 1-2 days ski specific while coaching; Fall: 2-3 ski specific, with roller skiing, spenst & specific strength; Winter: 4-6 ski specific including tele skiing and backcountry touring.
8. Do you do a lot of strength training? How much of it is core/ functional strength vs work in the weight room? What does your typical strength session look like?
My strength training is varied because of my travel schedule. When traveling on business, I often use free weights & machines at the hotel fitness center. At home I try to do at least one uphill dp fartlek/interval session a week and one core strength session. At home I have a vasa trainer and leg press machine (vintage yard sale special!) and try to include spenst with that. A typical session might have a 30-60 minute trail run with natural spenst in the last 20-30 minutes; 5 sets on the vasa & leg press; 15 minutes of core with medicine balls & fitness ball. The second session that week might be a 90 minute out & back dp in rolling terrain, easy on the way out, natural hill intervals on the way back.
9. What still keeps you motivated for racing after all these years? Are there any special techniques you use before an important event, that get you psyched up and ready to race hard?
I think some people have a natural desire or inclination for competition and that seems to be a driver for me… I love competing. I truly enjoy being around healthy, fit, positive people like you find in a ski race environment. I also love being really fit and the years I decide to race seriously I enjoy the month-to-month improvements. i've always been very goal oriented, so in the racing years, I enjoy setting a long range goal and the process of getting there. That said, I don't enjoy gearing up for serious racing every year… maybe a couple years in a row followed by a couple years of doing only 1-2 favorite races like the Stowe Derby, no log, no goals, and lot's of tele skiing. '07-'09 is a good example… I turned 60 last year & MWC was in the U.S.; this coming winter, MWC is in France near where our son lives, so this is a perfect alignment of circumstances to gear up and get in top shape over a two year period. Half way into it now, I love it, but look forward to a change of pace in '10.
Getting psyched up prior to a race is easy when you have planned for more than a year… I think of how fit I am, how much fun it will be to ski with the lead pack during MWC and clarify in my mind my goals for that day. I also listen to the Moody Blues & Rolling Stones while I warm up… music can be a good mood enhancer. I also do a very thorough warmup with several 1-2 minute pickups & fast downhill corners which seems to be invigorating.
10. You taught some on snow sessions for our NENSA group last year out in West Yellowstone. I will mention your enthusiasm once more, because it had a profound effect on the masters in our group. Too often we get stuck in “training mode” and forget to have fun. Tell us some of the ways you add the element of fun during your training sessions.
My first career as an elementary teacher and high school track coach helped me realize the importance and knack for enthusiasm and creativity. I never really think about being enthusiastic, it's just there and it's easier when you are doing something you love. Specifically for skiing, coaching our local BKSL group brings great pleasure & youthful joy. We have some top racers in our group as well as fast skiers who don't race, so we are always trying to create fun & fast activities to make them better skiers and to love “training,” although you would be hard pressed to call it training. We do downhill intervals with challenging turns and skiing side by side with them in tight, fast turns is exhilerating.
Secondly, I love going fast and enjoy workouts with tough hills, fun turns and invigorating terrain.
Thirdly, I don't focus on racing every year, so when I do train hard it isn't boring or tedious. Other activities that make my training stimulating include: training with friends and enjoying conversation as we ski/bike/run; tele skiing can be a great OD session and great fun; skiing (or biking/hiking) point to point makes a long session enjoyable: I also acknowledge that somes days are just arduous, but once you get out the door, you always feel better.
Finally, Janie & I share the passion for fitness & being outdoors, so it compliments my personal life, not detracts from it.
11. What do you think is the most important aspect of your training as a master ski racer?
Focusing on technique & strength… it is not as enjoyable as just going out for a relaxing workout, but it has made a big difference in my racing. as my son jeff said, “you've got 50 years of aerobic fitness, you need strength & style.”
12. You obviously spend many hours on skiing, racing and coaching. For some it's it difficult to balance all of this with family life. What is your secret to managing all of it?
Being married to a wonderfully patient, forgiving and participating woman! (Do I get points for that?) Because Janie is athletic and is a skier, biker, hiker, paddler, we can often share time outdoors. She appreciates the enjoyment I get from it because she lives it as well. I pursue it more aggressively than her and she gives me plenty of space to do it. Also, with a little planning, we can always make time for what's important and it is as important for us to be outdoors, be fit, volunteer to coach local kids and share time with friends who value the same. Now, people with children at home have a more complex challenge… when Janie & I were both doing triathlons, our boys were in grade school and we became the masters of creative training time. I remember sharing biking or running time to & from little league games and training early on weekend mornings so I could spend the rest of the day with them. When they went to ball practice, we squeezed in as much training as possible in those two hours.
13. What is on your agenda for this upcoming winter? You mentioned you will be going to France for the masters world championships - anything else?
We are going to France… our son is a mountain guide in Chamonix so we decided to do MWC again, after the races we will extend the trip for backcountry skiing in the Alps. also, Bob Gray said it was a beautiful place with wonderful trails (past Olympic experience) so we decided to gear it up and go for it. Also, I truly enjoyed a rivalry with a Frenchman and a Russian at McCall last March and look forward to going at it again with them.
14. Anything else you would like to add for any masters who want to either give racing a try, or improve their race performance?
Reason to give it a try… being in the company of so many positive, fit, healthy people. And, skiing is easy to improve in because technique & strength are such key components. In sports like running & cycling, improvement mostly comes from more miles & quality miles, but in skiing masters can make significant improvements by spending time on strength & technique. And finally, living in a Northern climate is easier when you have an appreciative relationship with the outdoors.
Source: NENSA
Murray attacks during the 2008 Master's World Championships in McCall, ID
Published: Mon Aug 18, 2008 2:00 AM MDT
Caitlin Compton races for the CXC Elite Team. She won the overall SuperTour title in 2006/2007, is a two-time National Champion - winning the 5km freestyle in 2008 and the team sprint in 2007, and finished 37th in the Individual 15km at the 2008 Biathlon World Championships. Hailing from Minneapolis, Minnesota, Caitlin graduated from Northern Michigan University in 2004. She races on Salomon skis and boots, and rollerskis from FinnSisu.
FasterSkier: Thanks so much for taking the time to talk with us Caitlin!
Your ski career has taken some interesting turns over the past few years. You won the overall SuperTour in 2006/2007, switched to biathlon and skied to a top 40 result at the Biathlon World Championships. Now we hear that you are heading back to Nordic.
Coming off an extremely successful 06/07 season when you won the SuperTour, what motivated your initial shift to biathlon?
Caitlin Compton: I trained with Piotr Bednarski in 2005/2006, while living in Minneapolis, prior to joining CXC. Piotr was a big advocate for the sport of Biathlon. The US Biathlon Association has great opportunities to race at an international level, even in their development programs. After a season of mostly domestic racing I decided that the next step was to get more international experience training and racing. I have generally been a stronger skate skier as well, which lends well for biathlon.
FS: What were the biggest challenges of the switch? How did you handle them?
CC: Biathlon is the most difficult sport I have ever competed in and extremely humbling at this point in my athletic career. The racing strategies are different and the entire mentality while on the shooting range was to be very calm and focused. Generally I am never calm, nor focused ever, so this made every combo (training and shooting together) workout a challenge. After a while I began to really enjoy the shift in focus while on the range and I began to really look forward to seeing how quickly I could transition from hard training to relaxed focus. I realized very quickly that this is an art that is incredible to witness first hand but takes years to master.
FS: You raced in the Biathlon World Championships and had an excellent result especially considering that it was your first season competing in the sport. What was that experience like?
CC: Yeah, I couldnt believe where I was racing after such a short introduction into the sport! I learned a lot about how much over-thinking about shooting can affect your race. I remember telling everyone that I was just going to see how fast I could be on the ski splits because this was only my second 15K Individual race ever and at a 1 minute penalty for every missed shot I was a bit nervous about what that could end up totaling after 20 shots! So I went out and raced hard and followed the girl ahead of me into the range every time. I was relaxed on the range and not trying too hard that was a breakthrough for me in my Biathlon career. I hit 16 of 20 targets and finished with the greatest feeling ever! Biathlon is a bit addicting when you actually hit the targets!
FS: You gained quite a bit of experience racing internationally at the highest level last season. How do you see that helping you moving forward?
CC: I had the opportunity to travel extensively last winter. This was crucial to my development as an athlete looking to compete more on an international level. I spent quite a few days without snow or access to my rifle which is the reality when you are on the move almost every week. USBA has an extremely well organized support team that travels with them and no detail is overlooked.
FS: You also won a US National title in cross-country. Did you take and extra satisfaction winning as a biathlete?
CC: I think I was more excited about winning in the UP! I was in Marquette for 5 years and spent quite a bit of time training and racing on those trails. Having Nationals in the Mid-West was an awesome opportunity again and I couldnt pass it up. I think Biathlon was excited to see what kind of level I was capable of racing at since there are only a few athletes that race both the XC and Biathlon races. I have to say that getting the opportunity to train and race with CXC was a major component of my success that week!
FS: Have you officially switched back to Nordic?
CC: Yes, I spent a lot of time looking at all the racing and training schedules for Biathlon and XC and realized that I couldnt combine them like I did last year. I put a great deal of thought into my plan leading up to 2010 and trying to qualify for the Team and decided that I wanted to pursue XC now and maybe Biathlon again at another time.
FS: You seemed quite excited about Biathlon this winter and there was talk about your progression and hopes for 2010. What precipitated the switch?
CC: Biathlon is such a great sport and the entire USBA is extremely professional. I have no doubt that they will be producing potential medal winning athletes by 2010. I just realized that I missed training with my old teammates and friends in the Mid-West while working with CXC and that my heart and passion are still in Nordic Racing. Like I said before I am still considering the possibility of competing in Biathlon in the future after 2010.
FS: What are your goals for this season?
CC: I am really looking forward to trying to make the Whistler World Cup Team! I had the opportunity to train on the Olympic courses last May and absolutely loved them. Since I missed Canadian Nationals there last year I would be psyched to ski them this January. I would also like to try to get over to Europe to race some Europa Cups and possibly a part of the Spring World Cup circuit.
FS: What are your long-term goals?
CC: My goals are qualifying and racing my best at the 2010 Olympics. I dont feel like I am ready to retire anytime soon, but I do want to go back to school and getting a newer car would be nice.
FS: You are back training full time with CXC how important has that organization been to your development and success as a skier?
CC: Yes I am back with CXC full-time! CXC like USBA is doing a great job with their program. Both Bryan Fish and Yuriy Gusev are extremely responsible for all of the athletes success. I have made huge strides since working with CXC and I see the programs depth growing more and more every year. I would not be near where I am today without CXC and I look forward to working with Bryan, Yuriy, and all of the CXC Team members through 2010.
FS: How has your summer training been going?
CC: Great! I had a bad fall this past spring that left my back and neck a bit weak and stiff but after a lot of PT and a slow progression back to strength, everything is coming along well. I am really excited about working with the CXC womens team this year. We have an extremely talented and hard working group of women that are the best I have ever trained with. There isnt a single workout that I am not being pushed or beaten by these other girls! Its awesome.
FS: Have you made any significant changes to your training? Are you focusing on a specific area?
CC: I would say that the Biathlon and CXC programs are quite different so yes. I am still looking to race both the sprints and distance events so I will be an all-arounder but I am always focusing on being quicker and more dynamic. I heard that the courses in Fairbanks are killer so I want to be really fit and ready for those races at the end of the season!
FS: You are in the unusual position of having raced at an elite level as both a biathlete and in cross-country. Comparing the two, what was the best part of being a biathlete? The hardest? The best part of racing straight cross-country? The hardest?
CC: The best part of being a biathlete is the fans and excitement at the races! Its incredible. The formats are so dialed in for spectating and TV that it is an incredible feeling having the crowds roaring behind you on the course and range. I know I shouldnt be focusing on that while racing but I cant help it! I would say as a rookie I wanted a lot of time to get comfortable shooting but we didnt always have access to our rifles or a range while traveling so that was hard.
In XC the best part was the courses. They were so difficult it was incredible. I would say that the courses are much more difficult than the Biathlon courses or any course I have raced in the US.
FS: What keeps you motivated to compete at such a high level? Do you ever go through periods where you have considered hanging up the skis?
CC: The training and racing are the easy part for me. I love to compete and I like training and pushing myself on a daily basis. The reason I love living and training in Minneapolis is because I have found that the people I train with and the ski community here keep me motivated! There are so many great training partners every day that it is always fun. Like many athletes in the XC world trying to make it to the next level, finances seem to be the ultimate factor that will determine whether or not I can continue beyond 2010.
FS: Where are your top three places to ski?
Blueberry Lake and Oles XC Center: Warren, VT
Caftsbury Outdoor Center: Craftsbury, VT
Elk River
FS: What is your favorite summer workout?
CC: We have a great hill in Afton, MN that I love to do L-4 Intervals up. Its a solid 4 minute climb which is pretty pathetic for most of the country but a gem here in Minneapolis! I usually do between 6- 10 intervals and get a quick ride down in between. My car doesnt have a back seat anymore so I fit up to four people in the back for an awesome hill workout together!
Thanks again for the opportunity to talk with FasterSkier!
FS: Thank you Caitlin - good luck this season!
Caitlin racing at US Nationals last season (Photo Credit Toko US)
Racing at the Biathlon World Championships in Ostersund, Sweden (Photo Credit: USBA)
Have you ever fantasized about having sex at the gym? I think nothing could be hotter than two men still sweaty from their workouts coming together right there on the gym floor. That’s what photographer Randy Blue says he’s always wanted to see, and he made it happen in this shoot with models Brent Diggs and Blake Riley. After a good workout, their musky scents and flexing muscles drive the guys while. Maybe it’s the masculinity of their surroundings, but in no time Brent and Blake are slurping each other’s cocks and pumping each other’s faces! Read the rest of this entry »
Published: Thu Mar 20, 2008 2:00 AM MDT
STOWE, VT (Trapp Family Lodge) - In some of the best and tightest competition in many years at the TD Banknorth Eastern High School Championships, 212 of many of New England and New Yorks top high school skiers battled it out over Trapp Family Lodges perfectly groomed and extremely challenging trails.
These Are the Type of Conditions You Dream of for March Racing. 35 degres, perfect snow, sun!
Friday Afternoon 5K Freestyle
Lia Van Dyke and Chris Stock win Opening Races at TD Banknorth Eastern High School Championships
The 2008 TD Banknorth Eastern High School Championships Kicked off today under bluebird skies and excellent course conditions. Boys and Girls raced a tough 5k freestyle course that wound through Trapp's scenic trails.
Women's top three were the hometown's Lia Van Dyke from Stowe, VT who won in 17:50. Gilford, New Hampshire's Jenia Badamshina grabbed second in 17:51. Shannon Mulshine, New York's number one ranked athlete finished third in 18:05 .
It was Massachusetts earning in the individual race victory for men with Chris Stock taking the win in 15:05, followed by Vermont's Peter Hegman and Mike Gibson.
Saturday Morning Classic Sprint
Olga Golovkina and John Dixon Grab Sprint Victories
The 1K classic sprint started off under very tricky waxing conditions. Just hours before the start a coating of fresh new snow fell at freezing point with rising temperatures.
The Sprint Start
Coaches were scrambling to test everything from klister, klister/wax combinations to hairies. Conditions varied on the rolling 1K course that challenged both wax coaches the skiers alike.
Massachusetts' Olga Golovkina grabbed a huge 7-second victory in the girl's sprint, followed by Maine's Erin Hatton and Vermont's Cam McDermott.
Maine's Page McKinley Sprinting
John Dixon (VT) also earned a huge victory, matching the 7-second margin Golovkina earned in the girl's race. He was followed New Hampshire's Will Anderson and Vermont teammate Mike Gibson.
Maine's Justin Fereshetian Knows that Every Tenth of a Second Counts in Sprinting
Saturday Afternoon Relay
Massachusetts Surprises With Victory in Mixed Technique, Mixed Gender Relay
The venue allowed incredible viewing of much of the race action with down-to-the-wire action. The girls scrambled with a classical leg, tagging to boys racing another classic leg, then tagging to girls freestyle with boys anchoring a last freestyle leg. The skiers blasted through the first 3k classic leg with Olga Golovkina (MA) in the lead over Maine, NH, and VT.
The boys flew through the first lap with Corey Hill (NH) turning the fastest leg and covering an 18 second gap to take the lead for New Hampshire. They held onto the lead going into the third leg, but final leg skier Nick Fogel from Massachusetts flew by to regain the lead by 12 seconds. The relay finished with Massachusetts wining followed by New Hampshire and Maine. Maine had four teams in the top-10, followed by New Hampshire with three, Vermont with two and Massachusetts with one.
Massachusetts Shocks! Wins Relay! Nick Fogel Brings it Home
Sunday Morning 7.5K Classic Mass Start
Mainers Strong, Complete Weekend Victory
The 7.5K classic race had more consistent course and waxing conditions, but there was still an element of panic in the team wax tents to hit that right combination of kick and glide. Just hours before the start, again a coating of fresh new snow fell at freezing point, and with teams of 24 boys and 24 girls, waxing is never easy!
In the boys race the field was packed together on the first hills, with the group snaking around screaming downhills in a manner that would have awed NASCAR fans. Chris Stock (MA) gapped the field on the last hill and won by over 10 seconds over the second finisher Adam Fissette(ME) who was followed by fellow Mainer Corey Park in third.
Boys Classic Mass Start
Boys Mass Start Classic - first downhill
The boy's race competition was very tight with the top 15 skiers packed into less than one minute.
The girls race was filled with excitement right from the start with the pack lead changing throughout the course between skiers from each state.
Girls Classic Mass Start
On the last climb on the tough Trapp's courses, Olga Golovkina (MA) surged to the finish for the win in 28:11, followed by Maine's Emily Atwood in 28:21, and Vermont's Caroline Carpenter a close third in 28:28.
Weekend Summary
Maine Wins Team Title; Massachusetts Sweeps Relay and Individual Honors with Golovkina and Stock
Massachusetts' winning relay team. From left to right Nick Fogel, Nadja Kern, Olga Golovkina and Chris Stock
Golovkina and Stock's individual titles speak volumes for the great work being done right now with both the Eastern Mass BKL program, the CSU club program, and their high school coaches. Congratulations to those individuals and their dedicated coaches!
Chris Stock won both the 5 km skate and the 7.5 km classic on his way to the overall title (Photo courtesy of Jaime Doucett)
Olga Golovkina climbs the final hill on her way to winning the 7.5 km classic mass start. Golovkina also won the 1 km classic sprint on her way to the overall crown (Photo courtesy of Jaime Doucett)
Maine's depth was phenomenal and included a mix of strong athletes from the northern part of the state (Maine Winter Sports Center), central Maine's high school programs especially at Leavitt and Mt. Blue, and southern Maine's Cape Nordic and Maine Coast Jr Team. It seems that Maine may have regained the depth that allowed them to dominate the Eastern High Schools and J2s for a few years before the recent drought.
New Hampshire, for some time, had dipped to some very low team totals at these championships. It was nice to see them fighting to almost earn second place as a team, earning some individual podiums, and working amazingly well as a team of coaches, wax techs, and athletes. With strong clubs at Gunstock, Ford Sayre, Mount Washington and others, look for continued improvement from New Hampshire.
New Hampshire Train
Let's not forget about the host state of Vermont. They were most effected by athlete absence for the Junior Nationals in Anchorage, Alaska and still earned numerous individual podiums and finished second as a team.
And thanks to New York for sending a crew over for the BKL Festival, J2 Championships, and this event. We hope to see full teams next year so that this event can return to its original 5-state field of the late 80's and early 90's.
There are Signs of Great Things to Come for NH and MA, but Vermont and Maine Remain the Teams to Beat
Final TD Banknorth Eastern High School Championships Results and Standings
Girls Free 5K - Boys Free 5K
Girls Sprint - Boys Sprint
Mixed Relay
Boys Classic 7.5 km - Girls Classic 7.5 km
3 Event Individual Standings
Team Score
Source: NENSA
(Unless otherwise noted photos by flyingpointroad.com) Read the rest of this entry »
Published: Thu Feb 21, 2008 2:00 AM MST
Updated: Thu Feb 21, 2008 7:02 PM MST
IMPORTANT RACE WAXING CONSIDERATIONS
FORECAST
Friday night cold and mostly cloudy. Low temp -1F. Saturday, race day, mostly sunny. High of 28F. Humidity is expected to be 80%. 3 mph SW wind. 10% chance of precipitation.
COURSE CONDITIONS
Course is in great shape. Track is firm, well groomed. Snow is considered moderately abrasive due to the sharp new snow crystals and transformed older snow that is being brought to the surface by the tilling of the grooming machines. Some dirt is present namely at road crossings.
WAXING CONSIDERATIONS
1. Base Preparation
Clean glide zones with Swix Base Prep 99 using the “hot scrape” method. Scrape and brush using Swix Fine Steel brush (T0192). This is very important to open up the base pores to receive race wax. Apply two layers of new Swix MB77 base conditioning wax. Scrape and brush with Swix Fine Steel Brush (T0192).
2. Durability
For a race of this length, it is very impor-tant to use several layers of wax and make sure the base pores are 100% saturated. After above base preparation is completed, follow wax recommendations on page 3.
3. Brushing
Be sure to treat each wax layer as if it is a final race layer. We recommend using the Swix Fine Steel Brush (T0192) as the first brushes after scraping. This is by far the best brush to use for removing excess wax from fine structure. Final polish with a Blue Nylon Brush (T0160) is recommended.
4. SKI SELECTION & STRUCTURE
Use a medium flex ski with a fine (.25mm) structure. If you need to add structure to your skis, use the Swix T401 Super Riller and apply a .25mm linear rill. Do this after race glide waxing & brushing is finished. Do a final brushing after applying rill with your blue nylon polishing brush.
GLIDE WAX APPLICATION
Note that we have 3 levels of wax choice based on your wave position and how you classify yourself as a racer / weekend warrior / Birkie enthusiast.
SPEED-AT-ALL-COST WAVES Elite & 1-5
Base Race Glide Wax: Apply two layers of Swix HF6BD. Scrape and brush with Swix Fine Steel Brush (T0192).
Race Glide Wax: Apply Swix FC7 Cera F Powder. Iron in with one pass w/ iron temperature at 155C. Pass should take 5-7 seconds. Let cool 20 minutes. Brush up powder using Swix Black Nylon brush (T0160). Iron second time as above. Let cool 20 minutes. Brush out with Wild Boar Brush (T0164) and finish polish with Blue Nylon (T0160).
SPEED-AT-ALL-COST WAVES 6-10
Base Race Glide Wax: Apply two layers of Swix HF7BD. Scrape and brush with Swix Fine Steel Brush (T0192).
Race Glide Wax: Apply Swix FC07 Cera F Powder. Iron in with one pass w/ iron temperature at 155C. Pass should take 5-7 seconds. Let cool 20 minutes. Brush up powder using Swix Black Nylon brush (T0160). Iron second time as above. Let cool 20 minutes. Brush out with Wild Boar Brush (T0164) and finish polish with Blue Nylon (T0160).
PERFORMANCE PRO WAVES 1-5
Base Race Glide Wax: Apply two layers of Swix HF6. Scrape and brush with Swix Fine Steel Brush (T0192).
Race Glide Wax: Apply Swix FC1 Turbo Solid. Rub on layer & lightly cork in. Rub on 2nd layer. Iron in with temp. at 145C, one pass length of ski. Let cool 20 minutes. Brush out with Wild Boar Brush (T0164) and finish polish with Blue Nylon (T0160).
PERFORMANCE PRO WAVES 6-10
Base Race Glide Wax: Apply two layers of Swix HF7. Scrape and brush with Swix Fine Steel Brush (T0192).
Race Glide Wax: Apply Swix FC1 Turbo Solid. Rub on layer & lightly cork in. Rub on 2nd layer. Iron in w/ temp. at 145C, one pass length of ski. Let cool 20 minutes. Brush out with Wild Boar Brush (T0164) and finish polish with Blue Nylon (T0160).
PERFORMANCE WAVES 1-5
Base Race Glide Wax: Apply one layer of Swix LF6. Iron in, let cool 20 minutes. Scrape and brush with Swix Fine Steel Brush (T0192).
Race Glide Wax: Apply two layers Swix LF7. Let cool 20 minutes, scrape & brush out using Swix Fine Steel Brush (T0192) and finish polish with Blue Nylon (T0160).
PERFORMANCE WAVES 6-10
Base Race Glide Wax: Apply one layer of Swix LF7. Iron in, let cool 20 minutes. Scrape and brush with Swix Fine Steel Brush (T0192).
Race Glide Wax: Apply two layers Swix LF7. Let cool 20 minutes, scrape & brush out using Swix Fine Steel Brush (T0192) and finish polish with Blue Nylon (T0160).
KICK WAX APPLICATION
KICK ZONE PREP
Remove old kick wax and clean base with Swix wax remover and Swix fiberlene. Let base dry. Use 80-100 grit sandpaper and sand kick zone in a manner parallel to the ski base, not cross hatching. The new Swix TOO11 Cork and Sandpaper combi tool works great for this.
BASE KICK WAX
Make sure kick zone is clean and sanded as per above. Apply a layer of Swix VG35 Base Wax. Rub on generous layer. Iron in 110C. Let cool. Lightly cork smooth (2-3 strokes). Apply two layers of Swix V40 Blue Extra. Cork very smooth between each layer. Let cool. You are now ready to apply final race wax.
RACE KICK WAX
Waves Elite & 1-5: Apply 6-8 thin layers of Swix VR40/VR45 HardWax. Alternate layers and end with VR40.
Waves 6-10: Apply 6-8 thin layers of Swix VR45/VR50 HardWax. Alternate layers and end with VR45.
Cork smooth after each layer. Do not drag all the wax down or up the kick zone. Cork in both directions pulling up from the heel and down from the high point. Build the wax in the middle of the kick zone which is directly under the ball of your foot.
By Kevin Sweeney
Published: Tue Feb 19, 2008 9:58 AM MST
Kevin Sweeney is the Swix Racing Service Director.
Proper base preparation is perhaps one of the best ways to insure you have good kick and good glide for the 55km American Birkebeiner. Conditions appear to be fantastic for the 35th annual race. Follow these simple steps and your skis will be ready for race wax application. Swix makes it easy for you to have great skis!
First step is to clean the base from old wax, oils and dirt. If using classic skis, clean off old kick wax with a putty knife and then wipe / scrub clean with Swix wax remover (I0062). Using a piece of Swix Fibertex (T0266) with the wax remover works great to scrub the kick zone free of old wax. Let skis dry.
On the glide zones it is best to clean by using the traditional “hot scrape method”. Take Swix BP99, which requires a very low iron temperature of 110C, and melt this onto the base. Iron in with 2-3 passes down the length of the ski with each pass taking approximately 7-10 seconds. While wax is still molten, use a stiff (3mm) plastic Swix wax scraper (T0823D) and scrape wax off the base. You can usually see the dirt and particles in this scraped up wax. Continue to do this 2 or 3 times until you can not see any more dirt coming up. Let skis cool for 10 minutes, and then brush out the base using the Swix Fine Steel Brush (T1088B pro oval) or (T0192NB rectangular). Brush 7-10 strokes. You can feel when the brush becomes free and no more wax is left in the base structure. Keep brushes clean by using your vacuum on the bristles. The extra fine filaments of the Fine Steel Brush are incomparable in performance. They are extremely durable and do not break down like an old nylon brush or too soft of a brush such as copper or soft bronze. You are able to not only clean the wax out of the structure, you are also able to open up the pores of the base that may have been inadvertently burned or sealed by using too hot of an iron or lingering in one spot too long. As I recently mentioned in my article on Cold Weather Waxing Tips, coaches or those doing several pairs of skis may really enjoy the new Steel Brush (T01790 pro oval or T0179R rectangular size) for this first step brushing method.
Now that bases are clean, it is time to saturate the pores of the glide zones with wax. Our goal here is to fill the pores with wax that will provide excellent bonding to our race layers that we will apply last. What wax we put on at this point is very important. We want the wax to be as close in hardness as possible that will not allow snow crystals or wax to dig into the wax and pull or tear the wax molecules out of the base. In most cases, we want a “hard” wax for this. In very cold temperatures it is common to use Swix CH4. In warmer conditions, Swix has developed the next generation base preparation wax, Swix MB77. This wax is to be used as a base preparation wax in the most common temperatures people frequently ski. MB77 is a fantastic base preparation wax because it contains a moly additive whose main function is to repel dirt and act as a dry lubricant reducing friction in dirty and drier conditions. This is the same moly additive found in our extremely versatile 100% Cera FC1 and FC2 Turbo waxes. The MB77 also contains a significant amount of flouro which does three things. One, it is extremely hydrophobic (repels water), two, the flouro molecules provide a great bonding base for the high or 100% race layer flouros to be added as semi final or final topcoats. (When heat is applied, these flouro molecules bond to each other proving a very durable topcoat or overlayer.) Three, the flouro makes the base wax very durable.
The numbers “77″ in MB77 represent its hardness scale in the Swix glide wax line up with 4's and 6's being cold and 8, 10's being warm waxes. Due to the moly's ability to provide lubrication in drier snow, we are able to run the MB77 when temps call for 6's and also to have success at higher elevations we find typical of the Rockies etc. Give the glide base a good saturation of Swix MB77. Let cool, scrape and brush out with the Fine Steel Brush. If you have neglected your skis since the last Birkie, doing this step twice is not a bad idea!
Structure of the ski base is now our next consideration. In nearly all cases except extremely cold conditions, you should have structure in the ski base. Refer to the following points and chart and apply structure with the legendary simple Swix T401 Hand “Riller” structure tool, or, if you have questions ask your local ski shop to apply structure to your base. (TheT405 is a structure tool used more by World Cup Service, large teams and shops and is quite expensive). It looks like we will be using a .25mm or .50mm rill based on temperature, humidity and snow type at this year's Birkebeiner.
Practical guidelines when setting structure with hand held tools
Use of the different imprint blades will vary with the underlying stone grind. If the base has a fine structure it can be taken to “medium” by using the coarse imprint blade. In this way you will be able to make a fine stone grind fit “medium” conditions. However, it is not possible to make a coarse stone grind 'fine' with a 'fine' blade.
In skating, a medium/coarse or coarse structure is rarely used due to varying conditions in a skating slope and the negative effect this will give on “feeling” (which has to do with the resistance in pushing the ski forward). In skating, a fine or medium structure is preferred as the standard; these structures will then be modified with the use of the structure/imprint tools “on top of” the underlying stone grind. Be aware of the amount of pressure when applying the hand made structure. In skating it is most important to apply light pressure on the front half of the ski. A harder pressure will be applied from the binding and backwards. This has shown to give an optimal mix of “good glide” and “free feel.”
For classic skis, use even pressure, but preferably lighter pressure on the front part.
Manually produced structure should be set after waxing, and after application of Cera F and brushing. After setting the structure, brush once more with the Blue Nylon brush.
Always apply manual structures on race day since the intended effect can be reduced over time.
If two or more imprint blades are used in combination, always start by using the coarser blade.
In more humid / wet conditions, it is normal to use more pressure and to make 2-3 passes with the imprint device to facilitate better drainage of moisture.
The T405 has a broader range in temperature and snow conditions versus the T401. The T405 is also perhaps more “gentle” with the ski base which allows change / removal of structure pattern more easily.
Never clean your structuring blades (or steels) with a metal brush. Use a soft toothbrush.
Use the following chart to make decisions on which imprint structure to use:
Guidelines for the use of T405 and T401:
Based on the forecast, everyone can go through this base preparation process several days before heading to the Birkie. Keep the MB77 on the base until you are ready to apply final race layers and structure.
If using classic skis, final base preparation of the kick zone is required. The main reason for this is so the kick wax will adhere well enough to the base for the duration of the event. Swix suggests using the T0011 synthetic cork w/ #100 grit sandpaper attached to rough up the kick zone. For hardwax, the kick zone is approximately 65cm beginning at the heel and moving forward up the ski. For Klister wax, the zone is shorter typically about 45-65cm. These measurements vary according to ski flex and skier weight. A good shop or good experience can help you dial these measurements in. To sand the kick zone we only pass the sanding cork in parallel fashion to the ski base, not across the base. If you will be applying Swix HF or Swix Cera F glide waxes, it is now best to wait before applying the base kick wax. Continue with your final race waxing of the glide zones.
Complete ironing, scraping and brushing. If applying Cera F powders, it is a common practice to tape over the kick zones to prevent the Cera F from getting into the kick zone pores as the kick wax will poorly adhere to this area. Iron and brush out Cera, then remove the tape and make sure kick zone is clean of wax and tape residue. The kick zone is now ready for application of the kick base wax sometimes referred to as “binder”.
If kick wax is going to be hardwax, apply a generous amount of Swix VG35 and then iron this in. Let cool 5 minutes and cork smooth. Do not over cork. If possible set outside to cool before applying the several layers of race waxes for the event. If the race wax is klister, apply a layer of Swix KR20. Iron this in. Again, let cool, and lightly cork smooth. This takes a firm yet subtle grip of the cork. Let base cool before applying the race klister layers. The more the KR20 has a chance to cool, typically the easier it is to apply the layers on top without mixing occurring. This requires patience and practice. A very nice video demonstration w/ voice queue can be found at www.swixsport.com
A few simple steps and your bases have been refurbished and are now prepped to receive the final race wax layers. While you are at it, inspect your ski sidewalls and surface for cracks or holes. Inspect bindings, check for loose screws, cracked plates. Also check your poles for cracks, loose or broken pole tips, handles and for worn straps. Be ready for a great day!
Base Preparation products required for glide zone:
BP99 base cleaning wax BP099
MB77 base wax MB077
Swix waxing Iron T72, T73 or T74
Swix 3mm wax scraper T0823D
Swix groove scraper T0087 or T0088
Swix Fine Steel Brush (T1088B pro oval) or (T0192NB rectangular)
Swix T401 Hand “Riller” structure tool
Base Preparation products required for kick zone:
Swix wax remover I0062 Fibertex T0266N and Fiberlene T0151
Putty Knife
Cork & sanding block T0011
VG35 hardwax base wax
KR20 klister base wax
Swix Sport's partner Team, The Factory Team, has had outstanding results this year using Swix waxes and poles. Below is a summary of results and wax combinations provided to Swix courtesy of Factory Team wax technicians Kevin Johnson and Fabien Blondeau. www.endurance-enterprises.com
Place, Race Type, Air Temp (C), Snow Snow Temp (C), Glide Wax, Kick Wax, Grade, Best.
Factory Team Results
WY Supertour, Sprint Sk, -14, New Cold and dry -16, LF4+LF3 for qualify then + FC7 Corked for heat, X A, M Sinnot : 2nd - K Unerwood : 6th.
WY Supertour, Ind Cl, -15, New Cold and dry -16, LF4+LF3, VG35 + combo V40/V20, A, K Strandberg : 1st, VG35 (Iron) + V40, A, M Sinnot : 5th.
Bozeman Supertour, Sprint Cl, -10, New Cold and Pretty Dry -12, HF4BD + FC7, VG35 corked + Combo VR40/VR30, A-, K Strandberg : 5th.
Bozeman Supertour, Ind Sk, -16, New Cold and dry -17, HF4BD, X B+, K Strandberg : 4th, E Dong : 7th.
SH Supertour, Sprint Cl, -10, Cold Artificial -11, LF6 then LF6 + FC1S Corked, Special green corked + VR40 then VR45, A+, K Strandberg : 2nd, I Babikov : 8th,
SH Supertour, Mass S Sk, -8, Cold Artificial -9, LF6 + FC7, X A-, E Dong : 6th, K Stranberg : 7th I Babikov : 1st, LF6 + FC7 + FC1S corked.
Houghton US Nationals, Ind Sk, -8, Falling and Cold -8, HF6 + FC7/8 mixed then HF6 + FC040, X A, I Babikov : 1st, L Flora : 6th, A Golovko : 9th, J Freeman : 10th.
Houghton US Nationals, Ind Cl, -8, Cold New then getting warm -10, HF4BD + FC7 then HF6 + FC7, Special Green corked + Combo VR40/VR45, A+, I Babikov : 1st, L Flora : 2nd, A Golovko : 3rd, M Sinnott : 9th, -5, -6, Special Green corked + VR45 B-, K Strandberg : 2nd.
Houghton US Nationals, Sprint Sk, 1, New getting warm : pretty wet -1, HF6BD + FC7 Corked then FC8L Corked, X A, M Sinnott : 4th, Flora : 6th, K Strandberg : 9th.
Houghton US Nationals, Team S Cl, 5, Very Wet 0, HF6BD + FC8L then + FC10L corked Combo KR60/K22n Under Foot, B, Flora/Golovko : 2nd, Strandberg : 4th.
Seeley Classic Hills, 42k Cl, -6, Old and New mixed -6, LF4 + HF6BD + FC8BD Binder Old Grn/KR30 mixed (iron) + VR45 and KR50 Cover UF, A+, A Golovko : 1st, A Larson : 1st.
Marquette College Race, Ind Cl, -20, New -20, HF4BD + LF3, Special Green corked + VR 30 cover by V20, B+ A Golovko : 3rd.
Duluth Supertour, Sprint Sk, -17, Old and new mixed -18, HF4BD for qualify then + FC7/LF3, X B+, K Strandberg : 3rd A Golovko : 10th.
Marquette Noque, 51k Cl, -9, New and falling -15, HF4BD + FC7, VG35 (Iron) + combo VR30/VR40, A+, K Strandberg : 1st, A Golovko : 1st.
Telemark Supertour, Mass S Cl, -1, Old and New mixed -10, HF6BD + FC7, VG35 (Iron) + combo VR40/VR45 (40%/60%), A, K Strandberg : 1st.
Madison Supertour, Team S Sk, -1, Artificial Dirty and new snow mixed -2, HF8BD + FC8BD + FC8L corked, X A, Flora/Golovko : 2nd.
Madison Supertour, Sprint Cl, -1, Artifical Dirty snow 0, HF8BD + FC8BD + FC10L Black corked, Double Pole Only but K21n/K22N mixed was Ok, A+, K Strandberg : 1st, L Flora : 5th.
Boulder Mountain Tour, 30k Sk, -14, New Cold and dry -15, CH4+LF4, X A+, M Sinnott : 1st, E Dong : 2nd.
City of Lakes, 35k Sk, -5, Old dry and cold -5, HF6BD + FC7 + FC1 corked, X A+, A Golovko : 1st.
Crafstbury, 50k Cl, -6, Ice and New Mixed, Falling -4, HF8 + FC8, KR 20 (iron) + KR40 + VR45, B, J Freeman : 2nd.
Aspen SuperTour, Ind Cl -10, Cold and Dry -15, CH4 + LF4, Binder V20 corked + VR30, A, K Strandberg : 1st A Golovko : 1st.
Aspen SuperTour, Mass S 25k Sk, -8, Cold and Dry -10, CH4 + HF4BD, X A-, E Dong : 1st, K Stranberg : 2nd, A Larson : 3rd.
Lake Placid Loppet, 50k Sk, -8, Cold -10, HF6 + FC7, X A, K Underwood : 1st, J Freeman : 2nd.
Mora Vasaloppet, 35k Sk, -24, New and cold (wind) -20, LF4+CH4+LF3/CH4, X B, C Giese : 9th.
Published: Wed Feb 20, 2008 2:00 AM MST
Forecast/Conditions: Extremely cold temperatures all week leading into the weekend. Friday high of 21F, low Friday night of -1F, and a high of 26F Saturday. Trail will be hard packed and in good shape.
Glidewax: Apply LF Moly, scrape and brush then apply HF Blue, scrape and brush out well. (Start with Copper Brush and then finish with Horsehair). Prepare the base for HelX application with the yellow side of Dual Pad. Spray on an even layer of HelX Cold (not too much, just enough to make base wet, but not puddle) to entire base and let dry completely. Polish with white side of Dual Pad. We have had great results with HelX Cold at the Birkie in these conditions.
Note: A rotocorked application of JetStream Moly will also be a good option. (Note comments on bottom of page if LF is preferred)
Gripwax: Sand kick zone with sandpaper of around 150 grit. Apply Basewax Green and heat in. Smooth with synthetic cork. Let cool. Apply multiple layers of the kick wax of the day starting with the entire zone (about 3 layers). Then add more layers in the middle area of the kick zone (3-5 additional layers). Cork between applying each layer. Earliest starters can go with Carbon Gripwax White. Some Blue can be sandwiched in the layers for later in the race. Later starters go with Carbon Gripwax Blue and sandwich Viola in the layers for later in the race.
Structure: Fine do not add structure
Read the rest of this entry »
Published: Sun Feb 17, 2008 2:00 AM MST
After an exhausting few months of training and competition, it is finally coming down to crunch time for the Alaska mens and womens ski teams, as they prepare for the championship stretch of their season.
Going into this weekends NCAA Central Region Championships, a number of compelling narratives have wound themselves into the context of the races, providing questions that will finally be answered come Sunday afternoon. For example, will Marius Korthauer be able to extend his five-race winning streak, as he looks to continue writing the perfect ending to his Nanook career? The German native has been the top collegiate skier in every event he has raced in this season, save for a second-place finish behind Anchorages Max Treinen in an uphill skate all the way back on Dec. 9, 2007.
Also, will Vahur Teppan, who will be skiing in his first race for Alaska since returning from international duty with Estonia at the Canmore World Cup races last month, be able to repeat as Central Collegiate Ski Association champion in the distance classic race: an event that he and Korthauer went 1-2 in last season?
But perhaps the most intriguing storyline for the Blue and Gold as they head into regionals revolves around the Nanooks chase for the CCSAs tenth and final NCAA mens qualifying spot. Heading into the fourth and final qualifying races, Alaska has no less than five guys (Ray Sabo, John Parry, Zach McGill, Einar Often and Andy Schnitzer) that could mathematically jump into the teams third allotted spot for nationals.
Of the five Nanooks in contention, Whitehorse natives Sabo and Parry are both tantalizingly close to grabbing a ticket to the NCAA in just their second year of collegiate competition. A monster classic race from Sabo at the Telemark SuperTour, where he took sixth place among collegiate skiers (12th overall), has brought him to within one-tenth of a point from a NCAA berth, as his 188.7 points trail College of Saint Scholasticas Bjorn Bakkens 188.6 by just a whisker.
Though he knows a trip to nationals hangs in balance this weekend, however, Sabo is doing his best to relax and stay loose before the all-important competitions.
Im trying to alleviate the pressure going in by not thinking about the race too much, Sabo said. I know we have to race hard this weekend. The biggest thing I want to do is just have the same tactic for the last SuperTour races that we had. Go in, no pressure, race the way I can and have fun.
Parry, meanwhile, has been one of Alaskas most consistent skiers this season, culminating in a seventh place collegiate finish (11th overall) in the 10K freestyle at the NTN Trails on Jan. 19. Parry remains a strong contender for the final CCSA qualifying spot, trailing Bakken by just 3.4 points.
Though Sabo and Parry are the most likely candidates to leapfrog the CSS skier for the final NCAA spot, a strong race from McGill (195.5 points), Often (196.6) or Schnitzer (204.9) could see them make big moves in the standings as well, depending on the results of other skiers.
Each Alaska skier has shown they are capable of putting together a good race this season, so anything is possible heading into the seasons final weekend. If someone is going to make a big move up the charts, however, the best place for them to make up ground seems to lie in Saturdays freestyle race.
We tend to have some good classic results, so, for sure, we need to step it up on the skate side, said head coach Scott Jerome. Weve done some extra training for skating: they have all shown that they can race well skating, they just havent done it consistently. Thats a priority for us, but if they have an amazing classic race, that can offset some of it as well. So we are going to try to do our best in both, but obviously the guys know that skate is where they need points: that is a really important day for us.
Though only a maximum of three Nanooks will be able to make it to the NCAA Championships, both Jerome and Sabo feel the increased competition for spots within the squad has been a boost to the Blue and Gold this season.
Any time you get people who are fighting for a spot, I think it steps everyones game up, Jerome said. It really has motivated and helped people. By having it close, it has really helped them become better skiers and better racers. I dont like being on the bubble, necessarily: obviously, its a little nerve-wracking. But the good thing about it is that you see who can step up at the races.
[The fight for spots] keeps everyone focused, Sabo added. It is healthy competition, because we are a young team and we have so much to build towards for the next four years. As a whole, its only going to make our team stronger and more dominant next year.
Qualification for the NCAA Championships is much more cut-and-dried on the womens side, however, as Alaska seems certain to send the maximum to Bozeman, Mont. next month. Aurelia Korthauer, Anna Coulter and Elisabeth Habermann currently sit in fourth, fifth and sixth spots respectively in the CCSA standings, with the top 11 qualifying for nationals. As Coulter put it, Something ridiculous would have to happen for us not to go.
While they may not have the same pressure on them individually, however, there is still plenty of impetus for the Nanook women to perform well as a team, as they attempt to chase down rivals Northern Michigan, who have dominated the skiing world in recent years. Last year, the Wildcat women scored an unprecedented podium sweep in both the classic and freestyle races at the NCAA championship, and they have been the top- finishing CCSA school in every race so far this season as well.
Alaska will have their work cut out for them, as they will be without Elisabeth Habermann, who is battling fatigue. Having likely already qualified for the NCAA Championships, the Nanooks have elected to rest Habermann, giving her time to return to full fitness before next months national race.
Right now, she wouldnt help herself in any way in the points, so it makes no sense to take her, Jerome said. We are 100 percent behind her taking the rest right now: Elisabeth is a fighter and the best thing for her to do right now is to rest. We know that she is a very good skier and just want her to get healthy.
Despite missing one of their top guns, however, the Blue and Gold are far from ready to concede the conference crown to Northern Michigan just yet.
It will be tough to beat Northern Michigan, but I dont want to say anything is impossible, Coulter said. They do have three really strong girls so we are definitely the underdogs, but Aurelia has been skating really well in skate recently. If she and I both have good races, and the other two girls that are traveling ski to their full potential, we have a good chance of being really, really close to them. I think thats a realistic goal.
The Nanook women also come into the regional race with plenty of momentum, having seen improvement and a steady climb up the leaderboard over the course of the season. Though the team had plenty of positives to take away from the seasons opening U.S. Senior Nationals, Jerome and the Nanooks always felt they were capable of more. Their work on the training grounds has resulted in noticeable progress throughout the SuperTour, culminating in a third-place overall finish (second-place collegiate) for Korthauer at the Telemark.
Instead of just sitting back and letting the season come at them, they made the commitment to really continuing to prepare for NCAAs, and now we are seeing the fruits of that, Jerome said. Because they focused on the process, and because they focused on their training, theyve made gains. When we saw Aurelia come in third in the SuperTour, we knew she was back to where we needed her to be.
While Northern Michigan is a force to be reckoned with, Jerome believes that, if things fall into place, Alaska has what it takes to contend for the CCSA title this weekend. We are a team: everybody knows that it might be there day to step up, he said. Our men are competitive with Northern, and for the overall title, if we pop a couple of good races for the women and the men do what they can do, we got a chance to win the whole thing.
Whatever the weekend holds for the Nanooks, Jerome hopes that the results come down to the athletes, rather than the coaches.
It will be warmer down there, but I dont think its going to be tricky waxing: the last thing you want regionals to come down to is a wax race, he said. We would rather have the athletes win and give their best performance than to have it won in the wax room. Its important to see who the best athletes are, and typically, when you have conditions below freezing and fresh snow, you are going to find the best athletes.
Alaskas skiers hit the trails for the NCAA Central Region Championships on Feb. 16-17 beginning at 7:00 a.m. Alaska time each day. For full details and results from both days of racing, stay tuned to www.alaskananooks.com, or see www.pttiming.com. Read the rest of this entry »