In Pursuit of Mad Adventure

The big boys striding it out on the early climb in Dramman, Norway at last season’s World Cup Finale.

“I would rather be ashes than dust,” begins Jack London in a poem of living in the moment, for the moment. For me, this collection of words never loses its rapture. In a season of quadrennial celebration of sport, it’s like seeing a freshly minted Olympic Champion. You have a pretty good idea of what’s next; a look of ecstasy replacing fatigue, a showering from the crowd’s affection. The picture never gets old, just as Mr. London’s words never tire. Enjoy.

I would rather be ashes than dust. I would rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze than it should be stifled by dry-rot. I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet. The function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days trying to prolong them. I shall use my time.


With a suitcase of courage Marit Bjorgen charges the final climb at the 2007 Sapporo World Championships