XC Snowstorm

My heart has never been in XC. As a kid I was pushed into it weekly and I just hated it. I just couldnt understand how the other kids survived going that fast in the cold and wind and rain and snow. After being thrown into it for such a long time I can't deny my respect for those who have managed to survive all their race through the wind and cold and rain and storm. I firsthandedly witnessed how harsh and destroying a XC race can be. You are being pushed from start till finish and only the very best can conquer a top position. When I saw this photo of a XC race in Italy this weekend I couldnt help but being overwhelmed by what I saw. These athletes are used to harsh conditions but a XC snowstorm race can't be something they are used to training in. Not even to mention the african athletes who have hardly ever seen snow in their lives. Nothing but respect for these athletes who just went out there, got their running shoes and clothes on and performed with the heart of a lion and the soul of a warrior. Enjoy this extraordinary picture, with special thanks to photorun.