Leaving Prague, Next Up Ljubljana

I have thoroughly enjoyed my week here in Prague. This was my first time to the Check Republic and I have found it holds much beauty and character. I would like to learn more about its history, as it seems rich and diverse.

I've had a good week of physical training with great access to the athletes gym right at the river where David is training and racing. It is all brand new and perfectly set up for everything I need. Running is also wonderful with so much to see and explore, this is one way to keep training interesting!

The only hiccup from the week was David getting food poisoning the night before his qualifiers on Friday. I have never seem him sick like that, we heard accounts the next day of other athletes who had eaten at the same restaurant, at the same time, and the time lines were identical. It was hard to see him so violently ill. He is doing better now, although still feeling some of the effects. Tomorrow is race day for him, I look forward to helping out where I can and stretching my vocal cords as I cheer him on.

Other than training, we've been able to explore the city and see a few sights. It's been interesting and I hope I will return to this great city sometime soon. After here we go to Ljubljana. Andree Lavoie (our team physio) and her new husband live close by so I hope we'll get together for a nice dinner.

Charity Golf Tournament, Back to Regular Training

Well, since the bike trip ended, I have enjoyed what has been a wonderful block at home. A whole 2 weeks!!!! I've loved every second of it. Most of my teammates stayed in Whistler for another week after the bike trip for a training camp. (Yes, they thought the bike trip wasn't enough training so they added another week in the gym!) I guess everyone was a bit tired and found the week to be tough to get through. This made me feel even more confident in my decision to go home and do my training there, eating my own food, sleeping in my own bed, and enjoyed being with David as well. It was great and I was amazed how great I felt so quickly after that long bike ride.

Being back in the gym and working out regularly felt good. It was nice to settle into a routine and enjoy the time at home. With some nice bike rides with David and golf excursions, including a charity golf tournament, life is good. I'm hitting my driver better than ever but this sport is addictive....I already want to buy new clubs! And I've only been golfing for less than 2 years! I've decided to wait until I get a bit better though, then I'm sure I'll dive in the deep end.

I'm now with David in Prague to support him during his World Cup races. I really enjoy this time and getting to know the 'other side' of sport. It's always an adventure which makes everything exciting.

Till Next Time,

K

June 2 - Duffy Face Off, Arrived in Whistler, Burgers All Around!

I am so glad glad I woke up on the right side of the bed this morning! Overall it was a good day; I didn't hit any walls, my butt survived, I didn't get burnt, that my legs felt recovered (more or less) from yesterday, and I made it to the finish line! It was a tough day and by far the hardest stage we've had this whole camp. We began riding at 7am with all the girls, a few boys, two athletes from the disabled ski team, Dusan, and Bruce. The rest of the men's team began at 8am, with the anticipation that some of the fastest guys would close the gap. (Oaf almost did close that gap, he arrived in Pemberton's rest station ridiculously close to use! We were all blown away by his ability to ride. I was happy to make it to Pemberton without being passed, although I didn't make it by much!)

Before we began riding we were all standing around with our bikes waiting for the go ahead. As we stood there, we compared heart rates, many of us (including myself) reached 119 bpm just standing there! However, once we began everyone got into a rythm. The first hill was the biggest we'd face (likely in our lifetime). It was hard, very hard, but I made it failry close to the leading climbers which felt like a huge success. Everyone who attempted the hills finished them, which is a huge feat and testament to the will power of this group of athletes. Several athletes weren't able to ride today due to injury, and some just missed the first hills then picked up with us for the final 100km. It was hard to see some girls try so hard but just weren't able to do it with severe knee pain. I found it really hard to leave someone behind to be picked up by the cars.

I spent most of my day with Emily Brydon and Liz (an ex rower, and now triathlete who's working with VANOC). We worked really well together which made such a difference both mentally and physically. Especailly when it came to the final leg of the journey from Pemberton to Whistler. This final stretch was deceivingly long, hot (reaching temperatures over 30degrees), and mostly uphill. I have to admit this part hurt, that is, until I saw Whistler then it felt like someone had given me a new set of legs! It's amazing how much is left in the tank with the right motivation. (The end of a nearly 1000km ride is huge motivation!)

In Whistler everyone slowly regrouped and collected at the Rec Centre so we could ride together, with a police escort, to Creekside. There we were greeted by some media and lots of excited people from the Whistler mountain ski club. (Including the sign that was made by the Weasle workers and hung on the side of the road just before the most amazing descent after 70kms of climbing)

At Creekside we enjoyed some great hamburgers (as you can see Mike Janyk was right in there!) as we basked in the scorching heat.

After the eating, we all went to our condos to shower and chill. It was nice to do nothing! Us girls all went out for dinner at Dusty's then picked up some Ben n Jerry's for desert:) Many of us, including myself, we hit the hay early. While others' nights are just beginning....

Thanks to everyone taking such an interest in my blog during this epic bike trip! We all had an amazing time and gained such respect for all our teammates. I will never forget this experience...and I can now say I rode the Duffy!

Till Next time,

K

June 1 - Dodging Potholes, More n More Hills, Summer has Begun!

Today we rode from Cash Creek to Lillooet, leaving at 8am in sunny hot conditions. Luckily we were off the bike before noon so that saved us from the scorching heat as it hits the 30's midday. Today was full of different group dynamics with some people struggling, others having good days, and with many of the guys taking it easy trying to save energy for tomorrow's big ride from Lillooet to Whistler. I had a bit of a rougher ride feeling the volume start to pile up. I'm sure there are also some nerves as we head into tomorrow.

This afternoon we enjoyed a playful time in the beautiful reservoir in Lillooet cooling our muscles off. It was spectacular with the mountains jetting into a massive lake. The water was freezing...in an oh so perfect way. After the cool down we hit the local ice cream shop (hey, after burning nearly 3,000 calories today It really hit the spot!)

A great thing for today was having Larisa back on the road with us! Although she didn't do the whole ride, skipping a few of the big hills, she did extremely well after such a big crash only a few days ago. Also to note from today was an interesting event when Emily Desforges was given money by a passing truck driver who wanted to donate to the 'cause' we were riding for! Way too funny, since we're really just riding for the heck of it! Sounds like it may to donated to the party at Dusty's after the ride! :)

Tomorrow our day will begin early with a 7am departure time. We'll be riding from Lillooet to Whistler, 136km, starting with the steepest climb any of us have ever ridden. The uphill will continue for first 70 kilometres. From there we will have some huge descents and more uphills, but not as painfully steep or long. I'm nervous for tomorrow but excited about the challenge.

Today David is racing in Europe, there are so many times I wish I could be in two places at once. I look forward to seeing him again this Monday when he returns to Canada! He's been a huge help throughout this whole ride, helping me face the challenges head on all the way through.

I'll let you know who survives and how we survive the final day of the Tour!

Cheers,

K

May 31 - More Uphills, Hot n Sunny

Today we left Kamloops and rode to Cash Chreek. It was a beautiful day with full sun and temperatures that reached 27 during our ride and up to 30 after lunch. Before we hit the road some old friends came to send us off. Nancy and Dave, who opened their home to me years and ago when the National Championships were in Sun Peaks, came to say hello and wish me well for the rest of the ride. It was great to see them again, it has been over 6 years since I saw them last.

Today's ride felt like we were always going either uphill or downhill. There were some amazing views of lakes and golf courses surrounded by desert like hills. The hills went quite well and I felt strong which was great. Although my muscles felt a little flat after a day off, my knees and lungs were much better! I'm certain this cold is on it's last legs! Another good things as we face the hardest days yet.

The girls are really sticking together right now and working hard to make sure everyone finishes. On the hills there is always a pretty massive separation in the group, but we always wait at the top, spinning out our legs out so we can start the descent together. The heat may become a factor, but for today it was ok.

We're now on our way to the dunk our legs in cold water to help speed up recovery.

Tomorrow we'll be facing a 2 hour climb to start the day, followed by a nice descent then two more, steep but short climbs. The next day...well...I don't even think there is a word that can properly describe how much it may hurt. I'm just wishing I had a granny gear!!!!! :)

Till tomorrow,

K

May 30- Day off, Massage, Media, Dinner with Kids

The day off in Kamloops was a pretty chill (yet busy) day for everyone. Many of the athletes played nine holes of golf, others got massages, and others went for a relaxed recovery ride on their bikes. As for myself, my day started with a long chat on Skype with my boyfriend David. It was great to connect via video after a few days of only texting. After a long chat, I had a relaxed breakfast then I went into town for a massage. Still feeling sick I enjoyed a day to give my body some rest.

At around 3pm we all gathered and went to a local GM dealership for for media event with some signing and photo ops. It was a beautiful day with full sunshine and 30 degrees. To be honest, I couldn't handle to sun for too long, so I gathered with the others in the shade whenever possible.

After the GM conference, we went to dunk our legs in the river again, physio then dinner with the local Kamloops Ski racers! It was a wonderful dinner with steak and all the fixings! I really enjoyed the evening with more laughter than I could handle. I crashed soon after dinner very tired and hoping to be set to go for the next ride.

Only 3 days left of riding!

May 29 - Rode into Kamloops, A few Big Hills, One Crash

Today began with a surprising wake up call at 6:30am delivered to all rooms....ah the joys of training under Mike Fichta! No, seriously though, it was a great day that was very, very full. We started our day leaving Mike Wiegele's at 8:30am, rode 106km that had a few hills that were unexpected but good. I am really happy with how I'm riding now and feel more and more like a cyclist. The groups are great as we learn to draft more and more effectively trying different styles and techniques. The group as a whole is impressive, you can really see the different strengths of everyone. It's been great and I have such respect for all my teammates.

Today we had one crash with Christina Lutenburger going down pretty hard (followed by Manny flying over her and impressively landing on his feet). Luckily no one else got wrapped up in the crash and Lusti walked away with a few scratches and one big goose egg over her right eye.


After the ride we had a snack at the Dairy Queen in Clearwater and awaited the designated time of departure. (I had a physio treatment from Julie on the picnic table outside, pretty funny but very needed) We then loaded up the trucks and vans and drove for about 1h towards Kamloops. We drove this section because of the lack of shoulder, gravel, and high number of transport trucks. About 10km outside of Kamloops we unpacked the vans, got back on our bikes, and rode 10km into Kamloops' Husky station for a media appearance. It was a lot of work for one camera and one reporter. Still, they were very hospitable in welcoming us to the city.



From there we moved into our University dorm rooms for the night! Before you get any ideas into your head, this place is beautiful and brand new! It only opened 4 days ago and the rooms and amazingly spacious and comfortable. Not your regular dorm rooms.

From there we quickly changed and went down to the river to dunk our legs in the cold water to aid recovery. This is a picture of Emily Desforges and she soaked her legs while trying to cover up her skin that got burned on today's sunny ride.

Now, it was dinner time with the Mayor of Kamloops! This was a pleasant meal that wasn't full of formalities, which was nice after a long day. Finally, I ended my day with Julie and more physio, then e-mails, and finally bloging.

Ah, now it's time for bed....I can't wait!

Oh ya, tomorrow's a day off!!!!! (from riding that is)

K

May 28 - 90km Ride, to Mike Wiegele's, Beach Volleyball

Another day, another hundred K. Well, almost. I had a great day out on the bike as we enjoyed some tail wind, some head wind, and nice rolly terrain. Today I rode with all the girls in one big pack. Emily Brydon was the only one absent as she started off her day with the boys. Although we faced some nasty conditions on the shoulder of the highway at times, the girls ran a tight group considering how much experience we have. I found today was a good recovery day for me and my joints as I adapt to this kind of volume. My muscle and stamina feel great, but my knees' ligaments are not used to this! Physio has been key for everyone.

Our route today took us from Valemount to Mike Wiegele's Heli Skiing resort. Although we won't be doing any Heli Skiing, we are enjoying these beautiful log cabins for the night! This afternoon we also had some laughs as we all tried to play some beach volleyball. It was great.

As far as my health goes, I'm still coughing quite a bit but it's getting better and better. I'm happy to say my voice is back to normal as well!

Next destination...Kamloops.

May 27 - 130km ride, rain, lost one

I'm Back! Today I rode with the group, covering 130km's from Jasper to Valemount and I felt amazingly good. Luckily my lungs were clearer than when I rode yesterday, otherwise I don't think I would have made it. The day started with a fun descent from the hostel, but unfortunately this descent cost us one athlete. Larisa Yurkiw had, what I heard, was a pretty scary crash that launched her into the woods. Luckily she came away with only a severe bruise on her thigh, although it is likely severe enough that she will not be riding anymore.

For the first 70km I rode in a group of 7, without knowledge of Larisa's crash, as we faced heavy rains with some wind. I ate more dirt today than I have through all my life. I felt lucky to be in a group that was working so well together, it made the ride go quickly. With 3 boys and 4 girls it was a nice mix. Although in the first 10km I had several rooky mistakes as I got into it; dropped water bottle in the rain, chain fell off the cassette, and nearly taking out Emily as I tried to get food from my back pouch. Luckily, I got into the rhythm from there though.

Mostly today, I was just happy to be out on my bike, I was mostly smiles...even with the rain:) At 64km mark everyone took a short break, changed clothing, refilled water bottles, ate, washed off as much mud as possible, then we hit the road again. Some of the athletes didn't change clothing and wanted to get going quickly. Those, including myself, who did change clothing weren't finished fast enough to continue the ride with them. So, when we were ready to hit the road again it was a group of 4. The other girls hadn't reached the rest point yet.

So, the rest of the ride consisted of a group of 4. I was amazed at how much more work it was, especially when the head winds picked up for the last 30km. Still, we worked well together and we had some fun on the big descents and worked hard on the ascents.

My body appears to have survived the first day fairly well. My right knee is quite sore from overuse, but with icing and physio I hope it won't become cumulatively worse.

Till next time!

K

May 25 & 26 - Jasper Hostel, Day Off, Short Ride, Soccer

Yesterday was a long ride of 150km's with one very big climb which ended in Jasper. Unfortunately I was still unable to ride and found it hard watching from the sidelines. However, I was impressed with the group and was very inspired. Most of the girls started the ride 45km into it, skipping the massive climb, but Emily Brydon, Brigitte Acton. and Christina Lustenburger did the climb with great success. Today (a day off for everyone in Jasper) I got out on my bike for just over an hour to test the lungs and get back on my bike. Jay Keddy came with me, which was great since he had some awesome pointers and was very supportive as I hacked up a lung. Still, I felt pretty good and did one pretty big climb without too much trouble. I'll be back riding with the group tomorrow for a relatively flat 120km ride.

Currently we are staying at the Jasper hostel. Yes, I said hostel. We are all in big rooms filled with lots of bunk beds. (Luckily the girls have a separate dorm though!) In many respects it's been pretty nice with everyone pitching in for meals, and overall living. Yesterday evening we had a small campfire with smoores (spl?) and all. Not everyone joined in, but I certainly loved being by the fire. Sadly, (or not so sadly) I may be leaving the communal living environment for tonight with Lusti. She also came down with this bug so we may leave to help stop the spreading of germs.

During our day off we played soccer with the locals racers. It was a great opportunity to meet them, spend some time hanging out and enjoy a great BBQ lunch! This picture is of Meg Ryley and one the young Jasper Ski stars guarding the net!

That's all for now!

Cheers,
K

Thursday May 24 - Fresh Pow, Chest Cold

Well, the stories are pilling up already. This morning we rolled out of bed to find 10cm of fresh powder on the ground! The roads were still clear, although wet, so the decision was made to truck (bike) on. I was feeling sick last night and as I got worse through the day but I hoped it would pass after a good nights rest. Unfortunately for me, I slept a mere 3 hours, and woke up to realize I'd lost my voice and had a nasty cough. The doctor listened to my chest and made the call that I wouldn't be riding today (although I must admit that wasn't a hard choice - I was in bad shape). It was hard not starting this ride with everyone, and to watch the day pass as I rode in the RV with the team's cook, Chad, to the next motel. Since arriving, I have hunkered down in my room to rest since I hope to be back on my bike tomorrow.

Tonight we'll be resting at the Saskatchewan Crossing. Next stop, Jasper!

Fresh Snow....we should have brought our ski equipment!

Wednesday May 23rd - Media Launch, Snows falling

Today was a full day geared towards officially launching this bike trip! Yesterday wrapped up the fitness testing portion and today was all about the final preparations for the ride to begin tomorrow. A media event, held at COP Calgary, showcased all the athletes in our team jerseys symbolically riding off to a shotgun start. The two rides around COP were fairly indicative of what lays ahead, a bit of confusion, getting used to bikes, and cold fingers!

I am currently at the Lake Louise Inn settling in for my last nights rest before the grind begins. As I look out my window the snow is falling....yes...I said snow. The rules have been set that the only reasons we'll pull out from riding is for thunderstorms and snow. Tomorrow we'll face one of our easier days with only 90km's and no major climbs. The goal tomorrow is to learn how to ride as a group, figure out what group matches our ability, and to begin finding (however difficult it may be to find something you never possessed) our biking legs.

Some nights we'll be in hotels, other nights hostels. With no cell phone service through most of the ride and an obvious lack of regular internet access my updates may be less regular than I had hoped. However, unless otherwise noted, I'm still alive and riding somewhere between Lake Louise and Whistler! :)

My feelings heading into this ride include anxiety, excitement, curiosity, and drive. At the very least, after the next 10 days I'm sure we'll have many stories to tell. When it comes down to it, I'm extremely excited to start this journey. This is living.

K

2 Days and Counting

The bike trip is inching its way closer and closer to reality. It seems like every person I run into has different opinions of how it will go, how it will feel, tactics to use, and how hard it will actually be. After hearing all this information, including opinions of many pro riders, I've decided this is going to HURT! However, it's possible. Considering it was snowing this morning in Calgary, this trip may also be a lot colder than I've anticipated.

Tomorrow we'll be at the University of Calgary's lab for fitness testing. Hopefully it won't take too much out of our bodies so we'll be set to start this bike trip on Thursday.

I'll keep up with my blog as the bike trip progresses! So Stay Tuned....

Whistler Camp Over, Biking Begins

I'm just returning from what was likely the most efficient ski camp I've ever been on. We had, what felt like, the top of the world all to ourselves. Peak chair at Whistler was opened to us for 6 days, with only 10 athletes there, we enjoyed more space and freedom to train than I've ever experience. Our mornings started with a 5am wake up. This was followed by a 35min drive up the mountain then training from 7am through 11am. (The picture below was taken from the top of the road that had been dug out....we couldn't believe how much snow is still up there!)

We had rollers built, start exercises, Super G & DH tracks, brush courses, and of course...big air....or at least a Downhiller's version of Big Air! I enjoyed jumping more than I ever have before. I hit my longest jump just short of 50 metres in flight distance! The best part was that I loved ever second of it. I've never jumped so well, nor have I ever enjoyed it so much. Life up there was great with an atmosphere of hard work, excitement, and enjoyment. It was something most athletes dream of.

I'm now home for a few days and I have begun preparing for the Team's Big Bike trip from Lake Louise to Whistler. I have to admit I've enjoyed riding these last few days, although I'm not sure if I'm prepared for the mountain passes that lay ahead! Still, we'll be there together as a team battling the hills....only this time we'll be going UPHILL?.... who ever thought that was a good idea must have been nuts:)

I'll keep you up to date as the Ski Team's Tour begins!

Kelly

How Ski Racing got me to Vegas...

Although the saying goes, "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" I've decided to share with you my weekend experience! CBRE, a commercial real estate company that has been a supporter of mine for 5 years, hosted a recognition weekend in Vegas for their top performers. This is a yearly event that changes locations and an event that Blake Hutcheson, CBRE's President, has invited me to for a few years now. However, this was the first year my schedule enabled me to attend. In many respects, it was a fitting year for a 'coming out' of my relationship with CBRE after the success I've had racing and the story that got me here. I was sponsored quietly up until this weekend. I was lucky enough to meet many amazing people who are motivated, friendly, and overall just great people who have added to CBRE's success. It really was a pleasure for me. Plus, staying at the Four Season's didn't hurt either! It was an oasis in Vegas. The weekend included a few highlights; spa massage, amazing buffet breakfasts, cabana time by the pool, 'O' by cirque du soleil, shopping, enjoying Vegas' 'it' nightclub Pure, and taking in the larger than life Strip.

Saturday night I gave a speech during the recognition dinner. I was happy with how it went and I received great feedback. I'm always amazed how my story seems to reach people, and the kinship I feel for them as well. I always enjoy doing talks, weather with school kids, Universities, or organizations, I always walk away feeling like I've gained something. I felt welcomed by all of CBRE's employees and I look forward to getting to know many of them better. While in Vegas I couldn't find the right words to describe this fantasy land of sin. That is, until Blake Hutcheson found the words I had been looking for, "Vegas is the world's largest cubic zirconium." I couldn't have put it better.

Since my last blog I had a training camp in Whistler where I tested new equipment and new eyes! The laser eye surgery went amazingly and I've had a perfect result. I don't know if it's related, but I was jumping better than I ever have before during our Speed training! Perhaps this depth perception is a good thing after all! :) In Whistler we tested new equipment for Downhill and Super G - things look good for next year! I'm excited already.

Currently, I am with my boyfriend David Ford in Charlotte, North Carolina enjoying the role as a support crew around the river. It's been a nice change of pace far away from the snowy hills (although I am still waiting for real summer weather to show up!). We've met several locals who have opened up their homes to us within minutes of meeting. Likely, David and I won't be staying in hotels the next time we visit Charlotte. The hospitality this city's people have shown us has been incredible. Otherwise, my health is pretty good other than the usual aches and pains I've become accustomed to as an athlete. Still a bit worn out after this season I'm enjoying having my shorts on and I look forward to hitting the golf course as soon as my aches and pains allow!

With Smiles and Warm Wishes,

Kelly

Laser Eye Surgery a Success!

Here I am, sporting the new high fashion, post-op, laser eye surgery sun glasses! No matter how dorky I looked on that day, it was definitely worth it. I can now see better than 20/20 and feel great! This whole process has been a long time coming as I waited for my vision to level off before I could consider laser surgery. Under Dr. Donna Mockler's guidance, an optometrist and a sport vision specialist, I was sent to Dr. Lin at Pacific Laser Eye Centre. There I received the best treatment possible when it comes to laser eye surgery. The results are perfection. I couldn't be happier.

I will be back on snow next week to test the new vision, new skis, and new boots. Next season is quickly approaching!....yes, I know, this one just finished:)

With Big Smiles and Clear Vision,

Kelly

End of Season Wrap Up

Spring is on it's way!!!!! As much as I love winter and skiing, I am really looking forward to getting some colour on this pale body of mine!

Well, another racing season has come to an end! Every year it never ceases to amaze me how quickly time flies by or how quickly you get wrapped up in the preparations for next year. Already, ski testing, training camps, and travel plans are set in place to get us set for next years races. It's a whirlwind of a lifestyle that can, at times be exhausting, but also unbelievably rewarding. This season I finished with a world ranking of 8th in Downhill and 8th in Super G. By FAR my best season finishing with just under 400 world cup points (a plateau I hope to surpass next year). Although I didn't end my season as strongly as it began, I am thankful to be healthy, and looking forward to an off-season to recharge the batteries. I have to admit, my batteries are very low after this season and I look forward to this time at home.

An exciting new part of my life right now is preparing for eye surgery! This Monday I go under the 'laser' and hope to come out with perfect vision! This will mean no more contact lenses drying out and folding in the middle of a speed race (yes, this has happened 3 times in World Cup competitions), better depth perception, and no more hassle with glasses ever again...if all goes well:) This is the reason I will not be competing in the National Championship this year. I needed a two week window in order to do the surgery with no contacts.

Now, I'm enjoying time at home with a few visits up to Whistler for media events and meetings with the girls as we try and help set up the best possible program to ensure many, many more podiums in our future.

Other exciting news includes me receiving a GM vehicle for a year because of my top ten world ranking on the World Cup! I have chosen a white Envoy and I look forward to ripping around in it.

As always, success isn't possible without the support of so many people around me. And of course, it also takes those special few who know when to kick me in the butt when I need it!

With Smiles and Best Wishes to Everyone,

Kelly

Look like anyone you might know?....

Carbon Neutral!

It's official, I'm carbon neutral! Thomas Grandhi and Sara Renner have been strong advocates trying to get the Canadian Alpine and Cross Country athletes to become Carbon Neutral. With the obvious affects of global warming I'm excited to be getting an education in how to do my part to offset my carbon emissions. I hope my children's children will get to experience the joys of skiing, and now is the time to make the necessary changes to ensure we'll be ski racing for generations to come!

5th in DH - Best Donwhill Result of Career

I know it has been a while since my last blog, my apologies for those avid readers! :) Currently I find myself in Burgeis, Italy for a few days of training as we head into the World Cup Finals next week. Looking back on this season, in some ways it's hard to believe it's almost over, yet I am getting a bit run down from the travel, so it's nice to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Lenzerheide was a blast from the past. The last time I was there was for the World Juniors 6 years ago! I had my first World Junior Championship podium there and so I was excited to return. This time we got to see the sun from time to time and what a view - the mountains were beautiful. It was also a great weekend for the Canadian women! 5 top tens in two days, including a podium by Emily Brydon! I was one of the top tens with a 5th place finish, but unfortunately I had one heck of a mixed up run in Super G putting far back in the feild.

The picture above is of the little village built on the top of Tarvisio! It's a very beautiful place.

I promise to write more next time!

Big Smiles,

Kelly