World Cup Journal: Pursuit Race CXC Report

First day of competition with the 15k woman’s pursuit, and 30k men’s pursuit ­ -- it’s tough to describe in words. It hurt just to watch these guys and gals climb these hills. This course has been described as one the toughest on the world cup. DNF’s included the likes of Tor Arne Hetland and Christian Hoffman. The day belonged to Poland and Russia. Poland’s Justyna Kowalcyzk broke away on the last climb to enter the stadium alone. Russia’s Nikolai Pankratov won his first world in a bunch sprint but many moves were attempted on the last climb to entertain very vocal spectators. Morgan Arritola was the top US finisher for the women and Kris Freeman was the top male for the US. CXC’s Garrott Kuzzy in his first World Cup race held with the main pack on the first lap and stayed clear of a Tobi Angerer fall, but understandable with a super star-studded field could hang on. He is looking forward to the 15k skate on Friday. Brian Greg will be in the sprint tomorrow.