Gauntlet 07 champs: PNMSP 1: Chris Rose and Jim Kobak

January 1, 07: Have you ever noticed how European's ride the glide phase longer than Americans? Well, Chris Rose has, and he used the old Euro trick to power Peru Nordic to another Gauntlet victory. The Gauntlet is the oldest running relay race at Mt. Van Hoevenberg to take place each New Year's Day. It has been held in the most marginal of circumstances and conditions, yet the tradition of The Gauntlet refuses to die. Today was no exception. Conditions were grey and sloppy. The fastest part of the course was on the consolidated slush of the Campground Loop. Skiers alternated laps over the 2.2 km race course that left Gauntlet Stadium (the maintenance shed) out over flatlander extension, to East Mt. cutoff, down the Loppet cutoff, over the bridge, up Flatlander Ex again, then back to Gauntlet Stadium via the Campground Loop. After the second exchange, conditions deteriorated incredibly. Semi-frozen slush disintegrated underfoot. Rocks and roots emigrated up from the rapidly thawing soil through the thin layer of "snow" above. Yet, despite these adverse condtions, Rose was able to rock the glide. "The trick is to float on your skis," says Rose, "...and to avoid being splashed by the roostertail from each glide phase." Rose used his superior technique to lead Peru Nordic to the win in 44:14, and to seal his name on the coveted Coors Light Silver Bullet fastest lap award at 7:12. Rose's technique was awe-inspiring and intimidating. Challenger Tom Moffet threw his pole down in disgust on the final lap when he realized his glide could not compete with the fleet Rose. This year's Gauntlet was great, although fans were disappointed with the DNS of Team CW-X, Rochester Nordic and The Swedish Bikini team. And a good time was had by most...