Today was a solid start to the season. It was a long sprint-only qualifier on an icy, fast course. Thanks to Fish for some of the best classic skis I’ve ever skied on–fast glide and easy kick. Woke up early this morning to a starry sky, which can only mean one thing in West: cold. The snow set-up solid over night with temps below zero and we had ideal conditions for the race. It was the first cross country race I’ve ever skied “blind.” We weren’t allowed to preview the course before the race, sort of like an alpine event. The icy fast corners took a lot of skiers by surprise and there were a number of casualties on the course. Big points for everyone who stayed on their feet. Great to be out racing again! I’ll try to get up a better report later, but I’ve gotta roll. . .