Its funny how things work–first I didn’t make any plans for my season, hoping to qualify to race in the IBU cups. Then when I raced poorly and didn’t qualify for that, I decided that I didn’t want to set myself up for more frustration, so I made plans for the season that didn’t involve biathlon at all. I almost went to the eastern cup instead of the biathlon NorAms in Jericho, but I decided that they might be my last biathlon races of the year, so I should go. And then SURPRISE, even with poor shooting in the races, I was named to the biathlon U-26 team! And a few days later I was on my way to Europe. As I write this, I’m in the van on the way to Osrblie, Slovakia, where the races will be held. Crazy!
I came over a few days early to get adjusted to the time change and to train in Ridnaun, Italy where several other members of the team were training. I’d heard that Ridnaun is beautiful, and that it always either sunny or snowing. When I arrived it was snowing like crazy. and in the first day I was there we got at least a food of fresh fluffy powder. It was a winter wonderland! After a few days of snow, the sun came out and I got to see the big beautiful mountains that surround the little valley. It really is something of a paradise. But enough writing, let me show you some pictures!
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Now, after spending 16 hours in the van yesterday (we got lost a bunch of times), I’m in Slovakia! There’s a lot of snow here and it looks hilly and sunny and pretty cool out the window–so I’d better get off my computer and start exploring it!