Caitlin Compton

It’s now April and the sun is shining more than the snow is falling. I will say that towards the end of the final week of racing I wasn’t quite ready for the season to be over. When I left Minneapolis on the 22nd of March the sun was shining and it was almost 60 degrees. I had just finished a rollerski hill workout and I was hoping the temperature would rise from below zero for my arrival in Fairbanks. The temps rose perfectly and Mt. Redoubt the volcano waited to erupt until just after my bags arrived a few hours behind me. The snow and trails were impeccable and most of the Elite ski community was together once again which always makes me happy.

The CXC Team could not afford to support us for the U.S. Distance Nationals so it was nice after purchasing the expensive ticket to get to Fairbanks that we could stay with some local families, many of whom were not a part of the ski community yet welcomed us with open arms and even cheered for us at the venue on race days

I was amazed how badly I wanted to race each day. I think staying in Minneapolis with the sunshine and warmth was a great approach since I was more than eager to get back on snow. The truth is I really couldn’t afford to leave any sooner than a day before the first race. I had a great 5K classic race, breathing like a freight train the whole way, and ended up 5th overall, just off the American Podium. A few juniors were ahead of me which was fantastic!!! I really enjoy how strong the junior racers are becoming here in the US and keeping all of us senior racers on our toes!

The rest of the week was solid as well. I had one hiccup in the pursuit race with some bad cramps on the second lap but rebounded for the third and forth. My favorite race of the week was the Skate Team Sprint. I would say that this is by far one of my favorite races. It can hurt so bad and yet be so much fun. My CXC teammate Maria was by far the highlight of the day skiing incredible in every leg against some serious competition (Kikkan Randall and Liz Stephens!). Maria skied the fastest time on her final leg hanging on to the relentless pace of Liz ahead. I was inspired by her all out effort!  Winning a Silver Medal was a great result for us and I am so proud of Maria.

The week ended with a 30K Classic race that utilized most of the steepest climbs in the Birch Hill trail system. This was probably one of the greatest courses I have ever skied. The snow was perfect, the temperature was perfect, the courses were flawless and the crowds of supporters were amazing! Fairbanks is an awesome place for ski races in March!!!

The major element that was so integral throughout my season while racing on the domestic circuit is the awesome wax support I received from CXC! My skis could not have been anymore perfect for the 30K Classic race!!! Bryan Fish, Bill Pierce and Wayne Fish worked like crazy for all of us racers and I hope they realized how much their efforts were needed and appreciated.

Goals for next season are starting to enter my mind but for now I will continue to relax, get some work done and absorb a fun season.