A few weeks ago I began a very early start to the northern hemisphere ski season.

Like last season, I have started my early season training in Alberta, Canada, where the majority of National Ski Teams are based in preparation for the World Cup circuit.

My team mate, my coach and I are based in Canmore for the first 6 weeks. From here, we are able to train at various ski resorts, including Nakiska (home mountain of the Calgary Winter Olympic Games), Lake Louise and Norquay.

The first week of training was a bit rocky. Getting back on skis after a 6 week break always takes a bit of time. This season was particularly difficult as I had to get accustomed to new equipment. New dimension restrictions meant that all of my skis were completely different to last years'.

We began training at Nakiska. As I am currently training on my own (my team mate is on a slightly different program), I slotted into training courses with various national teams, including the World Cup Women's Slovenian and Swiss Team. It was a great experience to be training with some of the fastest skiers in the world.

After 3 weeks of training, I am now ready for my first set of races. I am heading to Denver, Colorado tomorrow for the first Nor Am Cup's of the season. These particular races are known to be very difficult because of the high level of competition. A lot of World Cup athletes compete in them as further preparation for their upcoming World Cups to be held in Aspen, Colorado.

I am very excited to get into the racing again. Although training can be fun (and at times not so fun I must admit with sub-zero temperatures and frustratingly difficult courses), it is for the racing that I spend endless hours on the mountain and in the gym training.

I will spend two days in Keystone racing Giant Slalom, and then I will head to Winterpark where two slalom races will be held.

After this series I have one week of super g training scheduled at Sun Peaks, BC. I then head to Panorama, BC for a two day race series (2 Nor Am Cup Super G's). I then return to Canmore for a final week of racing at Mt. Norquay. So I have a busy 3 weeks of racing ahead of me!

I will be sure to let you know how I go.

Katya Crema