Having this years Nationals on home turf was a great advantage. After the back and forth travelling from Europe and Canada in January and February, it was a nice break to be able to stay at home and prepare for these races.
The big goal for the week was to bring home my first ever medal from a Canadian Championship, something that has eluded me for the past seven years. Last year in Whitehorse I came close with a 5th place finish, but after some very strong results earlier this season I was confident I could finally walk on to the podium.
The 10km skate race was the first race of four and perhaps one of my favourites. Although a bit shorter than what I prefer, the course was hard enough to make up some good time. After everyone crossed the finish, I ended up 3rd, and just 20 seconds from the top. Other highlights from the week was my 3rd place finish in the 50km, after which the season usually comes to an end, but not this year. I packed up my things one last time and drove down to Sun Valley for the US Nationals 50km, and the Super Tour Finals.
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| My coach pushing me on in the final 2km |
Surprisingly my body wasn't feeling too bagged from the 50km in Canmore, and the 50km across the border went very well. After having to fight back up to the front mid-way through the race, and then fighting to hang on with the leader, I finished 2nd. In the Super Tour, I finished 3rd in the 15km individual day, and placed 8th overall after all four races.
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| Podium of the 50km |
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| Leading the 15km classic race |
Now that it's April, it's time to relax and enjoy some sun. Training starts back up in early May, so I have to cram in as much relaxation as possible! Thanks for the support over the past years, I really appreciate it, and hope to continue it next season.
Regards,
Regards,
Kevin Sandau
Canadian National Development Team
Alberta World Cup Academy
Canmore, Alberta
www.sandau.ca
Canadian National Development Team
Alberta World Cup Academy
Canmore, Alberta
www.sandau.ca
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| sponsored athlete |
