Dear Valleys,

I thought that I would thank you guys for your support over the years and for the help with my trip to Switzerland. I didn't race to my full ability, but the difference at this level is huge if you have a slight off day. Its is definately an experience that I will cherish for the rest of my running career.

It was great to be a part of such a successful New Zealand team. Just being able to joke about the kiwi
things such as the Warriors and the Hurricanes was a welcome relief from the American way that has been forced upon me lately.

That Bekele from Ethiopia is the most amazing runner I have ever seen. Effortless demolition of the kenyan challengers and only 20 years old.

I now plan to open my outdoor track season on the 25th of April (my 20th birthday) at the Penn Relays. This is a massive occassion with over 60,000 spectators each day. We will be running the Distance medley an the 4 x 800.

By the looks of things, I will be making my way back home in December for a few weeks over xmas, I am really looking foward to catching up with everybody again. ( I might even get to see Royce Wilkie up in Tauranga over the new years break)

Good luck for the up coming Cross Country Season,

Nick Willis