Dear FAST Program,

I know I've been hard on you guys in recent posts, but it's only for your own good. Tough love, baby; tough love. The cold truth is, FAST, you have to find a way to be self-sufficient. (Are you taking notes, Utah Olympic Oval? A $40-million dollar asset should not be operating at a loss.)

Let's look beyond Torino 2006 for a moment. Do you really want this beautiful facility shut down, or to have the Dark Side come in and take over? WAKE UP!!! DO SOMETHING!!!

You have what it takes to lead speedskating into a new future. You just have to take full advantage of your resources. Just because nobody ever gave more than a half-assed attempt at marketing a product does not mean it has no potential. We BELIEVE in your team's concept and potential; it's just that the implementation and sustainability are a little bit flawed.

Encouraging other teams to train at the Utah Olympic Oval will actually help your cause. You know that High 5 and others will stand beside you against the evil empire.

And for God's sake find sponsors for your team. Dress your skaters up in matching uniforms and get them on TV, skating in a pace line! Wouldn't that look sharp? Come on. It's an Olympic year. Now would be the time. Don't blow it. Good luck.