December 2, 2008 – Tomorrow is the start of the World Cup season but unfortunately I will be missing the first race. I came down with a nasty cold three days ago and I have been unable to kick it. It will absolutely kill me to watch the first race on TV from my hotel room but I am confident that I am making the best decision by sitting out. Even with missing the first race, I will still race eight times over the next 18 days and I can’t afford to start a schedule like that with less than 100% health.

My plan now is to rest up and come back for Saturday’s 10km Sprint race. Hopefully I will feel healthy enough by Friday to do a short speed workout to prepare for Saturday’s race. It usually takes me one to two hard workouts after a cold before I feel normal again. For now all I can do is be patient and wait this cold out…