Brooke Hovey.

James Southam, 31st.

Rebecca Dussault heading out on course.

Lars Flora.

Kris Freeman leading Frode Estil.

Carl Swenson (23rd), Andrew Johnson.

Carl Swenson attacking his last lap.

Good day for Italy.

It was a good day for the USA as well.  Sarah Konrad took 23rd, Abby Larson took 30th.  I was able to take a few shots of the women but had to run back to work on skis before the men's race.  Sorry about that.

In the men's race we had a great start and sort of tailed off.  We still took 18th (Kris Freeman) and 23rd (Carl Swenson), but we are capable of better.  It is good to remember however that for 20 odd years, until about 4 or 5 years ago we were very excitted to just get one skeir in the top 30.  Our expectations are much higher now. 

Do our up-and-coming youth skiers know what it takes to be among the best in the world?  How many hours do most internationally succesful racers train per year?  How often do they do intensity workouts (in general)?  How often do they do strength training in the weight room? 

Do you know what it takes?  Post your thoughts in the comments section.

(all images by Vordenberg)