On 20th March was Final stage of Winter Cup in Chisinau. Winter Cup is my favorite competition. It is full of drama: labyrinths, lines, sprint distances that keep you in the leadership and in the end you can lose first place. I started this cup with a victory: I remembered that moment. A night before competition had landed in Chisinau, after an exciting travel. I woke up that morning with a good mood, cause I should run orienteering. Actually, that race was first race in my last half year, since Championship in May (whole summer in USA, whole autumn in Moldova I had a lot of work). I was in good spirits, the provision became even better when I passed first the finish line. Then my 4 wins in labyrinth. Already two years, nobody can win me in this kind of competition. I don't want to upset my friend, I fight with myself. But I'm sure that next year this won't be easy.

   After 8 stages I had 9min and 48sec advance to the next follower. However I was nervous and really afraid to lose my advance. The distance has 4.3km - is short, and virtually is impossible to recover that difference of time. But let's not forget in orienteering everything is possible. After each first 9 check points  around the lake, I looked to my GARMIN 620 device, how long time has Sergiu before the start. After, circle around lake I entered in forest and forgot about Sergiu. I remembered he, when we entered in forest, and I already was in my way to finish. Then I cheered and said the Cup is mine!

   Finally, I wont the Winter Cup, mission accomplished. Thanks competitors and the organizers for a wonderful competition

    What about my physical condition: well, I'm fine. My decision from a week go - not to participate at National Championship was the right one. The argument is result from this week - WINNER OF WINTER CUP