We were all pretty sore this morning, but we still got in a good warm-up run and stretch along with our 50 push-ups. Then it was time load the buses for the epic Sandpit Slalom. Turning into the pits the campers always get loud as they see the pits for the first time. We heard shouts of “Everest!”. They could barely wait for the vehicles to stop before running out to see the vertical.
After an inspection we took four training runs to figure out the line and technique. It was a dual so the pressure was on. There were falls and spills, but always followed by hiking and finishing. We kept hydrated by drinking after each run and then visualizing the course before jumping out of the start. Then it was time to raise the stakes. The stopwatches came out and they had two race runs. Game on! After a quick snack, we ended with a 50 gate monster course from the top of the pit to the very bottom.
Exhausted, we headed back to the NAC to refuel with a big lunch before splitting up for more Ropes action and COE agility. The Ropes course proved challenging for all as they had to focus in and breath away the nerves and fear of heights. At the COE, the campers worked on agility in the Obstacle course while Olympic Champ Ted Ligety watched from the weight room and worked out as well.
At 4pm we had our last rotation of cooking and archery. The chefs made Pumpkin Pie Chocolate Oatmeal bars. After dinner, we headed for the fields. It was time for Crazy Relays! Olympian and World Cup winner Steven Nyman showed up to talk to the athletes. They had lots of questions for the big man. Steven stressed the importance of working hard, but having fun. He also shared that when you’re nervous, it’s best to focus on the task at hand and only think about the things you can control. He then joined us for some of the Crazy Relays, which were were A+ tonight! It was some of the most fun I’ve had while working out. Last up on the schedule was the Jello Drop championships. It was a fierce competition that went six rounds before Coach Dan and Camper Jett took top honors.
We ended with our nightly journal meeting, along with a taste of the Oatmeal bars. Everyone was asleep by 9:05!
Hope to see everyone at the ELITEAM Olympics in the morning at 10am. The COE tour begins at 9:30 in the lobby if you would like to see the facility.
Camper Quotes of the Day:
When you want to quit, how do you Dig Deep?
“I say to myself, do I really want to quit, and then I keep going.” – Emerson
“By finding my inner strength and working hard.” -Ian
“I do my best and Dig Deep.” – Tiger
“I push myself a little harder.” – Ava
What is one thing you learned about yourself this week?
“That to be a friend you have to be a team player.” – Emerson
“That you can do more than you think.” – Ian
“I learned that I have strength and to Dig Deep.” – Tiger
“I can do more push-ups and sit-ups than I thought.” -Ava
The sandpits are…
“Awesome because they are slippery and FUN!” – Alex
“Hard, but if you stay on your left foot on the left turn and the right foot on the right turn it is easier.” – Tanner
“Very similar to skiing because you can’t lean in at the gate.” – Ben
“Challenging because you have to hold a tight line and stay high.” – Gabe
What do you need to be successful on the Ropes Course?
“You have to be confident to try and reach your goals.” – Stefan
“You have to have lots of mental toughness.” -Alex
You need a lot of balance as well.” – Tanner
