June marks the beginning of structured training for the XC Ottawa racing team. Most of us enjoyed the last of the snow and rested during April, gradually introduced a variety of dryland activities and strength training in May, and now were ready to build a foundation for a successful ski season. We've started our Sunday roller ski sessions in the Gatineau Park, and weekly Tuesday night dryland sessions at Mooney's Bay. We're all looking forward to our first training camp at Owl Rafting, June 16-18.
Some team members enjoy racing during the summer to stay sharp. In the past this has mostly included running races and triathlons, but this year XC Ottawa will also be competing in new races in the Coupe Elpex roller ski series. Some of us have already raced, with some success: Gavin won the Physiotherapy 10km running race; Wayne won the Place d'Orleans 10km run, and Sheila was third in the Ottawa Early Bird triathlon.
And it's time to give our viewers some new reading
material! Check back for photos, athlete diaries, workout of the week series, and updates about our training and racing throughout our
dryland season.