Let's cut to the chase ... this will be a long long 10 days of race coverage here at FasterSkier. Those 10 days include eight stages and two rest days. Phew. Today, Friday, January 1, saw Val Müstair, Switzerland host a stout skate sprint. Two laps of curves and whoops and hills at some altitude. 

Kershaw brings us into the action and susses out the trends. One major trend coming into the day, Rosie Brennan in the yellow bib  as the overall leader of the World Cup. One major trend coming out of the day, Jessie Diggins trending into her podium-form. The Swedes are back in the action and Simi Hamilton popped the fourth fastest qualifying time. Some good things to like about the day. 

For now it is onward. Seven stages to go.