Another beautiful day here in Seefeld. After the Americans had such a great day with the sprints, everyone was excited to see how they do in the distance races. In addition to combined (jumping, then skiing, which is not a strong sport for the Americans), there was a men’s 15K and a women’s 10K. Part of the course took place on the same sprint circuit with some addition distance to make about a 3.7K loop with four passes through the stadium each loop.
Given the beautiful morning and knowing we’d be watching the races at 11 and 2 (men’s then women’s) I went off to explore some trails and go to the cabin at Wildmoos, about a 3K uphill ski one-way from the hotel.
I went with a couple from Jackson Hole, who are super into skiing (like me). Once we got going, I pushed the uphills just to get some intervals in. I’m feeling really strong and in shape so why not. Just about then, some Swedish men’s team guys passed by and I skied behind them. There were three other fast skiers who did the same thing. Who wouldn’t want to watch these guys ski and see what they do that normal people do differently. I’ve decided it’s the balance, smoothness and fearlessness on the downhills.
Anyway, the Jackson couple and I ended up skiing another loop that was flat or rolling and ended up after skiing about an hour back at the Wildmoos cabin.
It’s a pretty colorful place. Here’s a video of the inside.
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After that we went back to the races, skiing down to Seefeld, and I changed quickly into some dry cloths and saw the start of the men’s race. Then, with my incredible credentials, I walked around in places that I would have normally not been allowed, right up and onto the course, to watch the race in a few different points. Simi Hamilton from Aspen had an incredible race and ended up in 8th place after starting in 73rd place! CONGRATULATIONS Simi!!
Then the women’s race, where American Jessica Diggins was in the first two or three places throughout the race and then won! In addition to that, the American girls had other great placings.
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The group met again after an incredible day for Austrian curling, with Gluwein. which is more or less bowling with a huge weight that doesn’t roll or curling with a stone but no broom. Amusing but I won’t be pursuing it.
The Lumi Experiences website has tons of group photos and Garrett had just done a fantastic job all around. He gave us a parting gift of a book hot off the press about the women’s XC team (!!!) and a race jersey signed by the entire team and their coach, suitable for framing. I cannot imagine anyone could do a better job!
Final dinner and good bye to a few of the group. Tomorrow 5AM bus ride.
Thanks for reading!