On Yukon Elite Squad we really help each other out and bring as much to the training as possible because our strength is in our team. We don't have a coach at every interval session so its upon ourselves to encourage each other to push harder. It feels like a real team rather than a bunch of dudes skiing under the same name. I have 3 sisters but no brothers, so these guys kind of fill in the gaps.
Team spirit is at an all time high right now. Could be to do with our new custom race suits or it could be that we're all stoked that we made it through the training season and now we get to prove ourselves. I'm not sure if any photos got leaked of our new suit but for now I'll keep it a surprise. Here's JP looking sharp in our new warm ups, courtesy of Swix. You'll be happy to know he no longer has that moustache.
photo by David Greer
I'll be flying down to Calgary on Sunday to have a week to acclimatize before the first races. But don't expect to see me lounging around the Rocky Mountain Ski Lodge anymore. I'll be shooting pool or maybe having a hot tub in the Yukon Elite Squad mansion. Ok, it actually belongs to Colin's uncle but its ours for the week! I sure hope Canmore isn't 7 degrees on Tuesday as forecasted. I was going to complain a little bit of having to race on man made snow but for now i'll just pretend I'm one of those Quebecers thats all giddy to just put on their skis for the first time this year.
There is lots to be done before leaving to Canmore but Colin and I managed to squeak in a day of what i like to call "rabbiting". We set out some snares to catch a few snowshoe hare and exceeded our expectations.
photo by Malkolm Boothroyd
Ten snowshoe hare in one day! Just think what we could do if we weren't skiing all the time. We kept all the meat and plan to make rabbit sausage. Once I learn how to tan the rabbit hides we will be making, hats, mittens, or perhaps a quilt. I've also heard the First Nation cut it into strips and weave it to make clothing. Fur of a snowshoe hare is softer than the softest kitten imaginable and i can't wait to find creative ways to use it.
Time trial tomorrow and then off to Canmore Sunday morning! First races are on December first and second. Look for a Knute Johnsgaard publication in upcoming issues of Whats Up Yukon!
