The relatively warm and wet weather that is causing concern for organizers and athletes on the eve of the Winter Olympics comes as no surprise to American Zach Caldwell.

The cross-country-ski technician has spent 2 1/2 winters at and around the Olympic course near Whistler, British Columbia, quietly taking stock of the snow and weather conditions. Caldwell has been trying to figure out the best way to grind the undersides of cross-country skis so that Americans ski fast — even in the worst conditions for speed.