Preparations for the 2008 race season began at Illabunda on Sunday the 6th July with the arrival of the Junior Race Team. The rebuilding phase continues this year after losing some of our top end skiers from last year to the senior ranks. Some welcome inclusions to this year’s squad are William and Lara Edmonds who bring with them some grit and determination from their prior sporting achievements. Also young Asher Fitzgerald has the opportunity to continue the fine tradition of racers from the Fitzgerald family and will certainly give his all on race day.
The weather deteriorated and the forecast was for much needed snow. The week started with drizzle and wet snow on Monday and Tuesday, cleared up for a sunny Wednesday but then dumped approximately 30cm of the precious white stuff on Thursday and Friday. The sunny skies returned for Saturday and Sunday.
Starting from Monday, the team was put
through a program of GS training for three hours in the mornings by Perisher Blue coaches Stefan and Heidi in tough conditions at Blue Cow and the feedback was very positive from both coaches. They heaped praise on our young charges for their good behaviour and dedication in mostly poor conditions.A torrid Cross Country coaching session was conducted on Thursday afternoon in heavy snow over at the Nordic tracks and it was very pleasing to witness the effort put in by the usual gut busters and also the new team members.
Snowboard training was a two day exercise on Friday and Saturday at Perisher and some positive achievements here hold us in good stead for the upcoming races.
Thank you to the parents and juniors who attended the training week and I hope the team is excited about the prospect of performing well for the Illabunda Club on race day 3oth August.
Last but certainly not least, thank you to our lodge managers Luanne and Matt who just keep on impressing with their fine food and friendly hospitality. It is always a tough week for the managers but they kept on smiling.
Terry Dryburgh
Race Captain
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