August 22, 2008 – Thirty-eight New England skiers have joined us this year for our four day junior camp. Our goals for the camp are to expose everyone to top level skiers, work on technique and get in some good solid training.After arriving Sunday we worked on classic technique and did some specific arm strength and an 800 meter uphill d-pole test. The fastest times of the day were posted by World Junior Team member Sophie Caldwell and J1 Scandinavian Trip member Chase Marston. Both were within 12 seconds of course records that have been recently set by US Ski Team Members Andy Newell and Morgan Smyth. All four are SMS alums. We have used this same test over the past 15 years as a marker for improvement. It is interesting to note that Sophie’s time as a senior is close to the time Andy had at that age.

Monday morning campers were challenged by another SMS test, the mountain run up Stratton. Camp staff members Justin Freeman and Kate Mitchell allowed coach Sverre Caldwell to hang on to his $20 bill by being able to post the fastest times of the day. Justin ran the mountain in 21:35, setting a new course record and handily beating second place finisher Doug Amos by over two minutes. Kate, the athletic trainer at SMS, edged out Sophie Caldwell by six seconds, and was 30 seconds off the women’s course record.

Afternoon training consisted of a short run followed by hip mobility, core strength, and balance and agility exercises. And of course one mean game of capture the flag. Between workouts we’ve had talks on recovery and nutrition, training plans and zones, and the importance of training logs. Coming up tomorrow we are looking forward to a morning skate speed workout with Andy Newell. In the afternoon we will be doing a combi roll-hike distance workout. The camp will end after a Wednesday morning classic rollerski threshold workout.

Day three started with skate technique and speed at Ball Mtn. Dam. After 45 minutes of technique and balance drills, Andy Newell led the group in leg speeds. Everyone had the opportunity to watch and follow Andy. It was quite clear that Andy is very comfortable on his roller skis. There were many times when both of his feet were off the ground. After the leg speeds everyone practiced their sprint starts and then warmed down.

In the afternoon, Andy and Justin Freeman led an inspirational question and answer session covering training and their international racing experiences.Afternoon training was a 2 1/2 hour combination roller ski/run-hike that took everyone around and over Stratton Mountain.

The day finished with the much anticipated camp skit night highlighted by the older girls interpretation of Olympic gymnastics! The camp ended on Wednesday with a challenging three mountain classic threshold workout. Andy and Justin led the group as they skied up the three hills of Weston for 2 1/2 hours.

It was a great camp with good weather, good food and great training. The Stratton BKL camp kicks off Thursday afternoon with another 40 kids. Thanks to Powerbar for helping sponsor both camps and keeping us energized!

For more info visit www.nensa.net.