This week's info ...

A couple things to know about this week.

1.  It is quite possible that due to weather and snow conditions, this week's Wednesday race may change to SKATE.  Check back here in the next couple days for a final determination.

2.  Next Saturday, January 14, there are a couple nordic races - the Hornet Classic in Turner and an Eastern Cup race at Quarry Road in Waterville.  None of these races are mandatory for our team.  Anyone participating in the Eastern Cup is doing so on their own, and we are determining if there is enough interest in our team members to take a group to the Hornet Classic.  Everyone should come to practice on Monday (tomorrow) prepared to tell John if they will ski in the Hornet Classic (and yes, this is a classic race) on Saturday if we do, in fact, decide to go.  If for some reason you won't be at practice, be sure to tell Susan your Saturday plans before you leave for the day on Monday.

Telstar Relays Info

Wax info is posted on the Wax Info tab.

Where:
Telstar Regional High School
284 Walkers Mill Rd (this is Route 26)
Bethel

When:

Telstar Relays - Saturday, January 7

Telstar Relays are this Saturday at Telstar Regional High School in Bethel.  Race times are:

11:00 - Wave A

12:00 - Wave B

1:00 - Individuals

We need to hear from everyone on the team in the next couple days about three things regarding this race:

By Thursday (tomorrow) morning:

Race IS on

Today's race IS ON.  Boys set off at 3:30, girls at 3:40.  Race start/finish is at the stadium area across from the Outdoor Center and The Market.  Because the snow is so soft, spectators are asked to stay off the snow unless they are on skis or snowshoes.  We think there will be a small spectating area for foot traffic by the start/finish area, otherwise please stay off the trails if you are not on skis or snowshoes.

Wednesday's race

Wax info for tomorrow's race is now posted on the Wax Info tab.

We are planning for a mass start skate race on the River Loop at Pineland, to begin and end in the stadium area across from the Outdoor Center.  Boys start at 3:30 with girls to follow.

Be sure to keep checking the blog for any updated info about this race, as tonight's expected rain may require some adjustments to the plan.

Looking ahead to this week

This coming Wednesday, January 4, we have a race scheduled at Pineland.  Exact details of race location will be determined on Tuesday, but a few things to know for now are:

• We are co-hosting this race with Freeport.  That means we need 3-4 parents to help out at the race.  Jobs will be taking bibs, helping the timer, etc.  Please let Susan know if you can be counted on to help at the race.  You will need to be there by 3:15.

• After local races (such as this week's race on Wednesday), we do NOT provide rides back to Desert Rd after the race.  Parents will hopefully be coming to the race and get their skier after the race or make other arrangements for transportation home.  If you are in a real pinch, let Susan know by Wednesday morning if you need help.

• Saturday we will be heading to Bethel for the Telstar Relays, a fun race where most skiers are on a relay team of two boys and two girls, and some skiers will be in an individual race.  Since this is not a WMC race, it is not mandatory, but we do hope most of our skiers will attend.  If you (your skier) will not be attending this race, let Susan know asap, so we won't place you on a relay team.

• A reminder that when we do have weekend races to farther away venues (like this Saturday in Bethel), skiers MUST tell Susan if they need a ride on the van.  Do not count on a ride if you haven't confirmed it.

Look for more specific race info tomorrow and hoping we see lots of parents at the race!

UPDATED - Return from ski camp

Skiers left Rangeley at 2:00, which means they should arrive at Desert Rd 4:15-4:30.