Russia

Thu, Feb  5, 2009 - By Pete Vordenberg

The face of it...

Into it.

We generally seem to have a different take on Lenin than they still have in Russia.

Lenin and the legacy.

Andy Newell found himself surrounded by the home crowed favorites.  The crowd would go crazy for the team in blue but not so much for the USA.

In person however they were very welcoming and took great care of us.  We had a great time.

Lots of fur.  Lots of waiting.

-18c.  No problem.

Attack.

The next crew in blue?

Life is not easy here.

What do you count as an excuse? What complaint do you claim keeps you from your dreams?

Or are you getting it done daily?

It isn't really the teeth that make a smile.

Sidewalk sale.

Something is missing... tall boots!

Toughen up.

Surprises.

Rybinsk.

Main square.

The pursuit day the races were cancelled.  We still went through the motions - just like nationals in Anchorage, testing skis and wax, athletes warming up - just to call it a day and pack up.  The next day we were on the bus on the way to Ramsau, Austria (photos coming soon).

Train hard.  Rest well.  Really hard and really well - like your next meal depends on it.  For some that is basically the case.

 

(vordenberg and facteau pictures)