Next stop...Moscow!

It was disappointing to have to leave Sweden, but hey, I have some work to take care of in Russia! We met up as a team in Moscow and stayed in a hotel right next to the airport. It was a nice hotel, but like everything else in Europe, it was expensive! Our meals cost about $30 just for buffet-style pasta! The only other bad thing was that many people smoke, so the entire hotel smelled of cigarette smoke. Additionally, we had to workout in the parking lot of the hotel, because we were right next to an expressway, so it wasn't safe to venture out. We did have to deal with exhaust, though, but we figured it would be good practice for Beijing :).

The next day, some athletes decided to go into downtown Moscow, but I chose not to go, especially after the long haul to Copenhagen. I just wanted to relax and make sure I was completely rested. It was going to be chaotic in the Red Square in Moscow due to a parade in honor of the new Russian president. Plus, I knew the trip to Cheboksary might be overwhelming, too.

Most of the other international teams arrived that next day as well. It was awesome to hear all the different languages and see the variety of colorful uniforms. I got to see some friends from previous races and chatted with a Polish coach, Bohdan Bolakowski, who used to train us at the Olympic Training Center. This is one of the best things I love about racewalking, just meeting new people from around the world, catching up with old friends, and being in a place that actually supports racewalking!

Next up...the trip to Cheboksary!