Junior World Cross Country Ski Championships

Words and Images: Alastair Smaill

Feburary 4, 2009 -Today was Pursuit day at the Junior World Cross Country Ski Championships in France. The men?¢‚Ǩ‚Ñ¢s race was 20km, consisting of a 3 x 3.3km classic, followed by 3x 3.3km skate, and of course a change of skis and poles between.

Andy in our Wax Cabin

Andy Pohl had a great race to finish 53rd (from 85 starters), in his first major championship race. This is the world championship, and there are not many easy beats in this field. Andy beat all the Australians (!) and two out of the four Finns. He was very impressive in the skate leg, picking up 11 places, and skied the 38th fastest skate leg.

100%. Andy at the finish

Andy recovering rapidly

The Fohn wind (same as NW?¢‚Ǩ‚Ñ¢er if you live in Canterbury, or Chinook if you live in Alberta) has set in, and temperatures are up around +5 during the middle of the day. Our next race is on Thursday, which is an interval start skate.

Womens U23 Pursuit

Last Sunday saw the opening ceremony, which was a great mix of French flare and disorganisation, mixed with alpine village culture. It was a great event.

Yes, our wax cabin does have a lean!

The organisers put the kiwis in the furthest away cabin, on the end of the row. The kiwis have the last laugh. The afternoon sun streams in.