WINTERBERG WORLD CUP -11th

I finished 11th in my first world cup race and I couldn’t be happier. What a great experience and what a way to finish the season off on a positive note. I woke up this morning with some crazy feelings... I couldn’t tell if I was nervous or just overly excited for something I’ve been looking forward to for so long. I knew it was most likely both and I went about my morning like I would any other race… Intercontinental Cup prepared me well. One thing I like to do when I first arrive is to snap a few pictures. Some people may think I’m not focused but it helps me appreciate the day and where I am at that moment. Race day is special to me so I want to be able to look back and remember my experience as well as share it with others that can’t be here.
Really the only differences on the surface of a world cup race are the TV cameras, sponsor signage and a lot more spectators! I was surprised that all that didn’t faze me much (especially when I had a massive camera in my peripheral vision as I stood on the start line)… I guess I thought it was all really cool and then it became fun.

Speaking of fun, I had the best time at this race! I had a huge smile on my face before and after each run because it was more about proving to myself that I could put down two solid runs and where ever that put me in the rankings was okay with me. I was loving all of the people watching especially when I got off my sled and could wave to a crowd… it made me feel kind of important.

For me, today was a lot about perspective and attitude. I realized that this was a huge competition for me but I also knew that it was just another race. I did what I knew how to do and that included having a the right state of mind. I was happy to be there, I was excited to race, and I no one could change that! For me, the result was more than I could have hoped for on a track that happens to be my least favorite in Europe. What an awesome day!!
Pics:
1) This is the view we had from the top of the track... it's not often we see the sun in Winterberg so this was an extra special morning!!
2) Court and I at the finish after our second run

** There are a lot more pictures of the races this weekend in my photo gallery- Album: 2007-2008 Season (Winterberg World CUp)