The Opportunities of Cold

Many of our Burkies had a well deserved day off and it was also good day to take a break as the temperatures were VERY eastern like. I had the opportunity as did Ronnie, Eliza, Lexi and Jack to experience winters first true chill at Copper as the mercury held steady in the 0-10 range. Plus with the wind howling and the sun dropping (our lane time was 1-4pm) an intense snow squall rushed in dumping 2-4 inches in 30 minutes! Truefully, it got down right nasty!

I'm sure for any of you that have volunteered for a BMA race get the picture. But what I want to explain is how this was the day that we Burkies were able take the cold as an opportunity to psyche out our competition. Little do they know it's not all about being tough, but also about being street smart. When it gets this cold we use little tricks to help us get through the coldest of days. Listed below are just a few. Today many our Burkies withstood through the cold, got additional runs, and managed to win a few timed training runs. Way to go Burkies!

*Clean dry socks
*Heavy dosages of baby powder on your feet (to keep them smooth and DRY) just before you put on your socks.
*Wear goggles instead of sunglasses.
*Move slowly! Never allow yourself to sweat.
*Wear a layer that has a hoodie.
*Wear a jacket that has a hood!
*Wear a neckie that not only goes around your neck, but continues up and and surrounds your head with lovely insulation. -add a hat or helmet and instantly you have doubled your "R" value.
*Hike up the hill to fix gates never down. It makes you look really good, its good for your heart, and your core will warm spreading that heated blood to the feet, face and hands.
*When explaining things or telling a story use as much body english as possible.
*Don't be afraid to give friends, competitors, or even people you barely know a big HUG when you see them. -gives additional body heat, promotes good will, and its just nice.
*Put large quantities of bag balm on your face, nose and ears. -you have to try this one to believe it.
*Think positively, the mountains are beautiful!

Off Day Activities

Both the FIS and U16/14 groups had the weekend off, after a 5-day stint last week. Below are a few photos. The Silverthorne Rec Center has been a staple for the FIS crew, and this weekend the U16/14 group had some fun too.

 Hot tub time. Isabel, Anna B, and Julia 

 Outdoor hot tub: McKenna, Bay, Avery, Lexi H.

 The water slide is a big hit. Even the coaches have tested it out. 

 Parker and Lizzy threw a welcoming Sponge Bob party for the new invitees who arrived to the U16/14 camp today. So thoughtful!

Our athletic trainer, Greg, is doing his best to help our athletes stay healthy!

John Dwyer Presents...

John attended the WC races in Solden this October and today, he presented his findings on equipment trends. It was a very thorough look at what's going on with equipment at the highest levels of our sport. Thanks John!

More smiles from Loveland

Dani, Harry, Sam C.,Nicole, Moriah

Drew and Lisa

Henry and Aleck

Matt W. and Patrick

Sam M., Jake, Charlie H., and Bug

Sophie and Trevor

Peek-a-Boo!

The Continental Divide

Some of the U16/U14 crew have made their way to the Continental Divide this week. Here are a couple group shots.

Mustache Wednesday

Here are a few more photos of the U16's in Loveland.  Note that the girls are celebrating the traditional mustache Wednesday.

Slalom at Loveland with the U-16's

We had a great day of training today and were lucky enough to have Kirk and Steve with us.   Loving the sunshine.