Streamwater, Sap, and Kasie had a run-off on the race course today…
Kasie test ran the course today and encountered a little bit of everything. The streamwater challenged Kasie and the maple sap to a run-off. The sap relied on its zen-like state of “flow” to gain an advantage. The streamwater was disqualified for cutting the course. Kasie ruled the uphills, although she was a bit wary as she crested Adirondack view and saw that Josh Ferenc had been there first and marked his territory as King of the Mountain.
Here’s the blow by blow:
Mud is surfacing nicely. The starting line is looking less like a ski trail. It is muddy, wet, and rutted out by an errant truck.
First turn up Butternut Cabin trail. The frost is still very much heaving so while it looks benign, if you don’t stay to the side you might lose a shoe, or foot, or leg. That should settle down by race day though. 🙂
The high point of the 1st and 2nd loops. Looking good at the KOM preme spot.
Revisiting spot where there was 36″ of snow. Now just leaves.
Mud corner saving it’s mud for later. That hideous spot that you get to go through twice reveals why it is always so muddy. It’s the last hold-out for ice melt, and is very popular with the streams.
Stream goes for a test run.
All clear on the 2nd loop single track. Some parts of the course are looking good!
The base of the first descent still calls for Katoolahs or ice skates of some variety.
View from Liberty Meadow heading to 2nd ascent.
Sap lines running along the course.
2nd climb is wet as usual.
Not actually that bad. Mud didn’t get too far up my leg.
The 3rd loop in all its mossy, single-track glory.
Entering the 3rd loop.
View from the final descent down Ridge Road. The 3rd loops is completely clear of ice and snow now.
The finish line is looking more like a vernal pool. Ribbet Ribbet.
With this much change in the past week, can’t wait to see what course conditions will be in another week’s time!
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