So how was Russia?
Brent McMurtry: There was a lot of travel, which made the racing, very challenging. It was really cool to see a different part of the world, and how they do things over there. Rybinsk has world-class facilities, with cabins close to both the race site and food. It was an interesting experience traveling by bus. One drive of 100km, took over three hours.
How different was it over there compared to the atmosphere say here in Canmore?
BM: It was a pretty soft field in Russia. Obviously the Russian domestic racers were really strong, but there were not a lot of red group skiers there. Here in Canmore just before the Games the field is much stronger – maybe not as crazy as some people thought it would be – but still strong for sure.
With these WCup races at home what are you focusing on?
BM: My main focus is the sprint. I’ll race both events, but I find that I tend to do better on the second day of racing, so I’m focusing on qualifying and getting as much experience as I can before the sprints in Whistler.
This will be your first Olympic Games. It must have been nerve-wracking waiting to find out whether you’d qualified.
BM: I flip flopped back and forth a lot. I’d been told after the Olympic trials that I was ‘conditionally nominated’ to the team, but that was dependant on quota spots. As of Jan 16th, the list from FIS had Canada with 12 spots, and I was 15th on the list, so it didn’t look good. That’s why I went to Otepaa. If I had known before hand that I was going to the Olympics, I probably wouldn’t have gone to Estonia, but it was still a great experience, and I’m glad for it. I was checking my phone messages on the flight home from Europe when I found out I’d officially made it. It was a huge boost to my confidence and energy. The whole team has high expectations, but everyone is pumped and excited.
When does the Team leave for Whistler?
BM: Part of the team leaves on the February 11th, and the rest, the sprinters like me leave on the 13th.
Do you know which Olympic races you’ll be competing in?
BM: I’ve got a start in the sprints for sure. I’m also an alternate for the Pursuit, but some of the other guys get first pick. If one of them is feeling under the weather, or decides not to race for whatever reason, I could get to start the pursuit as well.
Congratulations on making the team – good luck this weekend and in Whistler.
BM: Thanks.