Wow! I am so excited that my first trip overseas has brought me all that I could have asked for. I came here excited to just race at an international venue, meet new people, and explore a different culture and country. I have loved every day of being here and getting the opportunities to check those things off my list. Now, the extra bonus is that I was able to earn a spot to race in the 60 person mass start tomorrow!

The sun came out for our 7.5k sprint race today! I think I may have even gotten a little burned. I enjoyed every moment because tomorrow it will rain once again.

Thank you to the volunteers who have spent all week in the pouring rain, snow, slush, and sun as they helped to make sure the athletes could have the best experience and race conditions possible. I have spent the end of each race getting to know Wiktoria who has collected my bib after every finish. I am so glad to have gotten to travel here and meet some awesome people and make lifelong friends.

We spent the afternoon doing more exploring around town! We even stopped for a celebratory gelato.

I have spent part of the evening getting my things lined out and strategizing the best way to get everything back home. Tomorrow we will enjoy the final mass start and then return to our room to finish our packing. I have one awesome race left, but so far it has already been an unforgettable and amazing experience here!