Vasaloppet Week - Event 1 of 4

Well, it's time for event #1 in my winter ski series.  With little snow and a move to coordinate, I'll be heading into this first one looking to get some time on my skis. 

There have been many things calling for my attention in the past few weeks.  The longest I've gone has been 14 miles.  The thing that most concerns me would be my ability to fuel during this 58k event.  Depending on conditions it will likely take four hours or so.  I will draw on my experience.

We have sold our house and close in just a matter of weeks.  Needless to say there is a lot going on right now in my world.  Which makes the timing of this ski series even that much more perfect.  I can feel my blood pressure going down just thinking about my day on the trail.  There will be nothing on my mind in those moments except for what will contribute to me getting to the end of the 58k Vasaloppet.

I think that's part of the reason why I like ultra - adventure.  I'm challenged to the point where I need to think of nothing but the task at hand.  There is no room for clutter.  The other part is the community.  I get emotional writing to you now thinking about being surrounded by the ultra - community.  It's difficult to describe the energy around an event unless you've experienced it for yourself.

So, as I work through this week in the moment, I look forward to the opportunity that lies ahead on Saturday.  I'll spend a good part of the day gliding one foot in front of the other as I begin this four event ski series. 

One thought I've had while training lately is I've been thinking about what you are training for in your life.  Are you training for an athletic event, your job, being a parent or maybe all of the above like me?  What's most important to you?  Are you living in the moment or do you find yourself thinking about what's next? I don't know the answer to any of those questions but I would challenge you to declare your priorities and act accordingly. 

I'll follow up next week with how event one ended up.  I'll also preview event two, the Minnesota Finlandia in Bemidji, MN.  Make it great folks and keep being an inspiration! - Jon