I managed to catch up with Canadian National Team member Chris Jeffries after the recent Canada Cup Races at the new and improved Sovereign Lake faciility at Silver Star,B.C. He had some pretty impressive races, wiping the floor with much of his competition. His results were 1st in the 15km skate, 2nd in the 15km continuous pursuit, and 2nd in the classic sprint.
How do you like the new World Cup trails at Sovereign Lake?
(Sovereign Lake, along with Canmore, will host December World Cup races in 2005).
I think that they are awesome, especially the upper courses. They are hard, with nothing extremely steep, and ski very well. They should make for some exciting and fair racing.
Have you been working on anything particular this year in your training? If so,how is that coming along?
This fall I have placed a focus on technique in both classic and skating. The result is that I have never felt more comfortable on skis in my life. During the summer I focused on injury prevention. I spent lots of time with a physical therapist doing preventative injury work.
Were you happy with your races this week?
Very happy. It has been a long road of self improvement since June. Back then I was a full six kilos heavier than I am now.
What is your favorite way to amuse yourself at Silver Star?
I work hard to maintain a fine balance between hot-tubbing, taking saunas and drinking coffee at Bugaboos, with some solid t.v. time in between.
What is your favorite element of British Columbia culture?
The terrific mix of rednecks and beachboy muscleheads. As well, the plethora of cold beer and wine stores.
