Prep for The Great Race

Viewpoint on the trail of Lake Tahoe

One month and counting before the annual Great Race. The Great Race is a skate ski race that runs from Tahoe City to Truckee (30 km a little over 18 miles). It will be held on March 7th.  Last year I did the race with only skate skiing 3 times ever before and I was on rental equipment. This year I am a little more experienced (I still consider myself a beginner), but I have my own gear. Today I went about 25 km at Tahoe XC and did pretty well. Although very tired from the hard work, I am confident I will do better than last year. Also, this year I will not be alone. Sarah, Zach and a few of their Idaho friends (Jenna, Willie and maybe some others) will be joining me on this adventure. 

Skate skiing is such an amazing sport. Every part of your body is used, meaning it is an incredible workout. You have two little toothpicks (skis) attached at your feet and exceptionally long poles to help you along. The sport is more about technique and form than anything else. The point is to skate along using your legs and arms (with poles) to push. The skis don't have edges, which makes downhill a whole different type of challenge. Today, I had to mentally remind myself I could make it up the large hills, even though my heart was pounding out of my chest from being so tired. Then, going downhill I had to hold tight and try to keep as much control as I could. Like I said before, there are no edges. 

Thanks Mom for going with me, I look forward to this challenge!