As I skied the 16 km classic technique race at the Gatineau Loppet this weekend, specific points of technique came to mind along the course. I could not recall which person gave me each of the pieces of advice - memory is an frail thing.
If someone asked me to name 10 points of technique to use in a race I would probably struggle to do so. As the course unfolded, presenting the varying conditions, glazed track in sunlight, a crowded hill with skiers herringboning, the advice of the coaches, teachers and more experienced skiers who have helped me came to conciousness.

Thank your coach. Thank the person* who waxed your skis or helped you get the wax 'right'.

Thank them face to face. No matter what your result in a race or how gruelling the work out, every piece of advice, every critique of technique combined with your effort will get you closer to your goal. Whether you are a competitive athlete or recreational skier improving your technique - we can't achieve our goals alone.

* If your wax tech is a team mate, friend or parent.