| Cross-country skiing isn't usually considered an thrilling winter sport, but the Men's 4x10km relay was surprising exciting. Each member of the 4-man team completed two loops of the hilly course. Soldier Hollow was a breathtaking venue, nestled in the mountains near Heber City. We took the shuttle bus from the parking lot, but some arrived on a steam-powered locomotive and cowboy-driven, horse-drawn sled. We found a spot on the inside of the course, watching the skiers swoosh by on a downhill. The US is not normally competitive in cross country, by the American team did very well, in second place at one point. One fan ran along much of the course with a huge American flag, keeping pace with the US skier. Though Norway was in the lead by 40 seconds at one point, Italy battled back and it was a sprint at the finish line. An terrific end to a great day in the hills. |
