Canada to California-Season Wrap Up 2011-2012

After a disappointing, frustrating, and quite honestly disheartening World Junior Championships I took some time off and spent a few very relaxing days at my parent’s house, before returning to Fort Kent to prepare for Canadian Biathlon Nationals, in Valcartier Quebec. Valcatier is only 3 hours from Fort Kent, so skipping US Nationals in Montana was a no brainer. This race series was also my first racing “with the big boys” in the Senior Category. I was optimistic about my prospects for good results, however during my last hard workout before traveling to Valcartier I experienced very painful cramps and spasms in my quadriceps, accompanied by lingering pain above and beyond normal soreness. Leading up to the first race I was very diligent about stretching, and other recovery activities. I was able to post a 5^th place in the Mass Start, despite not being able to ski my best due to some leg pain. The Saturday sprint race was no as successful, despite good shooting I was not able to ski anywhere near my potential and posted a disappointing 10^th place. The Sunday pursuit race started off well, I had great skis and felt good, unfortunately I only had 2.5k of racing in me, and due to leg pain, a lingering cold, and poor mental preparation I posted my first ever “did not finish” I was ashamed, but glad the race was over. It was a tough way to end what has been a disappointing season.

With the competitive season in the books I headed back to Mammoth Lakes, California to race in the Mammoth Biathlon Invitational. I was joined by Mark Johnson, Corrine Malcolm, Nick Proell, Jake “Big D” Dalberg, Conrad Roberts, and Mr. JR from Stanford. I really enjoyed my time in Mammoth, great people, scenery, and fun racing. The two day event was split by experience, so the beginner adults, juniors, and adaptive categories raced on Saturday, and the Elite, National Guard, Masters and Intermediate Adult races where held on Sunday. It was a full weekend of racing, coaching, officiating and socializing. As an added bonus I was able to hold fast skiing Mark Johnson for the win.

I am now talking a break from training for and thinking about biathlon, while I solidify my plans for next year. Thanks to everyone that supported my though this difficult season. Photos of both events can be found above.