In the case of major events like these world championships, wax companies have been collecting on-site data for years in advance. Whereas raw speed is crucial for Sopotnik's speedsters, Brettell must also be concerned with making the slalom and GS skis bite into the steep slabs of water-injected ice found on World Cup courses. Sarah likes 'em sharp under the foot, and if it's icy, sharp up to the tip. If it's man-made snow, I'll dull them lightly with a stone so they're not too grabby. On race day, both Sopotnik and Brettell can be found in the start in case last minute tuning adjustments are needed.
Any job well done brings satisfaction, despite the anonymity.