Together with the entire team for the last chance of the year, Team Black Jack spent nine days in Whistler for the Haywood Ski Nationals at the end of March. With uncharacteristically good weather, the races went smoothly and Black Jack had a successful competition. Leading the charge, David Palmer opened the week with a National title in both the Junior 10km Skate and 15km Classic. Keeping Team Black Jack on top, Julien Locke finished second in the Junior Classic Sprint after qualifying as the 11th fastest (Open) in the morning, while Eric Byram finished 7th in Junior Boys as he lead the charge in the B-Final. To finish off the week, Eric fought hard to lead the team with a 5th place finish in the Junior Boys 15km while Chisa Obayashi skied to 5th as well in the Open Women’s 30km Skate.
Highlights of Results
- 1st – David – 10km Skate
- 1st – David – 15km Classic
- 2nd – Julien – Classic Sprint
- 2nd – Chisa Obayashi – 10km Classic
- 5th – Eric – 15km Skate
- 5th – Chisa Obayashi – 30km Skate
- 7th – Julien – 15km Classic
- 7th – Eric – Classic Sprint
Many thanks to Ken and Ellen for the cooking, and Dave, Mark and Fred for the coaching and great skis.
Thanks to Julien Locke, Bernard Pigeon, and Sea to Sky Photo.ca for the photos.
