Another great edition of the Bogburn. For the past few years we’ve been treated to one of two conditions: sweltering heat or frigid cold. Last year was all cold powder and green hardwax, while this time it was klister through and through.
This is a legendary race. The course is a treat, with narrow singletrack through gentle hills with a few wild corners every now and then. It rewards efficient skiing and can sometimes penalize those not willing to slow the tempo down and keep it smooth. When it’s slushy, it becomes even more of a race for “scrappy” skiers who can pick good lines, stride without perfect tracks, and manage speed without the firmest snow to double pole in.
We had 11 racers in the open category, which for the club featured a great mix of age groups from Juniors to coaches. We all piled into the club van together and arrived with just enough time to test about 6 different klister options, settle on the right chemical cocktail, and get everyone to the start line ready to rock.
The winning solution was Rode KM3, with a little bit of Rex Brown mixed into the middle third of the kick zone. For those wanting a bit more we added Toko Red and life was good.
Busy scene as the women line up for the start (photo by Ellie)
Using klister sometimes strikes fear into the hearts of racers, particularly masters skiers. When it’s done right, klister skiing can actually be some of the BEST skiing there is…solid kick, speedy glide, and endless adjustability to the wax job through mixing, adding, and removing components. Some backed-out when they saw the forecast, but next time I would challenge EVERYONE to give it a go even if you see klister on the menu.
With a t-shirt on and the racers all in a good mood, it was one of those races where partway through my second lap I said to myself “man, this is a lot of fun”. That wasn’t on a downhill or even at the one trail section with a beautiful scenic view. This was climbing up a hill with plenty of vertical to go, and I was realizing for the Nth time just how cool this race is. How many times have you thought to yourself how much fun you’re having in the middle of a ski race? I know I never did that enough when I was racing in high school and college, but I’ve thankfully come to appreciate it more and more.
Take a risk, slap on some klister, or just check-in with the coaches and we would be happy to slap on some klister for you…and we will see you at the next race!
THE RACE FOR THE CLUB CUP IS TIGHT and our club is within striking distance. Never before have we held this close to the top of the leaderboard, with only a few key points separating us from the lead. Remember, everyone that races scores points for the Club Cup, regardless of your ability level or speed. The Club Cup is most often won by participation number, NOT by hardcore racers. The best opportunity to close the gap is the Geschmossel ski race on Monday, 1/20.
Geschmossel MNC Trip Info (also on website events and Katie Hill’s Race Roster form)
We will have a TEAM VAN for Masters looking to race this event…just jump in the van and focus on your race. Coach Adam will drive the van (seats 15 including driver) down to Bretton Woods. MNC will provide wax and waxing help though if you have your own wax you are encouraged to utilize it.
Depart: 7:30AM
Arrive: 9:45AM
Tent set-up, bib pickup, wax testing, etc
Race begins: 11:00AM
Awards: 1:00PM
Ride back: 1:30PM, with stop for libations at the delicious Bethlehem Village Store
Club Cup Comp: NWVE, MNC, DXC
Emily, our top racer in 5th overall for women, receiving her coveted Bogburn hat!
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