Taylor Moe and Jack Hoffman Win 32nd Annual Laura Flood Memorial Race

Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) hosted more than 150 of the best ski racers in the region for the 32nd Annual Laura Flood Memorial Race Feb 24-26. The race serves as a U16 Intermountain Cup qualifier, and the perpetual trophy is awarded to the top U16 male and female athletes at the conclusion of three races—two giant slaloms (GS) and one slalom (SL) held on the steeps of Sun Valley’s Greyhawk and Hemingway runs.

The Laura Flood Memorial Race honors the life of Laura Flood, a young ski racer, SVSEF alumna, and friend who lost her life in a ski training accident at 19 while racing for the University of Colorado. The race is made possible through the entire community’s efforts—the Flood family, coaches, volunteers, families, athletes, and Sun Valley Resort; and is one way SVSEF wants to help keep Flood’s legacy alive in the greater ski racing community.

“The tradition of this race is important for our sport and for our family,” said Heather Flood Daves, Laura’s sister. “Those who knew Laura would say that she was vivacious, kind, super determined, fun-loving, and always showed the epitome of sportsmanship. She played many sports but she loved ski racing. Races like this are one way we can honor people we’ve lost through our sport, and always remember incredible moments that over time unveil so many connections between past winners. Ski families are tight and it’s pretty powerful to see the various connections to Laura as the generations come up through the sport and familiar names are engraved on the Laura Flood Memorial perpetual trophy.”

On Sunday, the U16 athlete results were calculated including all three days of racing, and Taylor Moe from Jackson Hole Ski Club and Jack Hoffman from Rowmark Academy were announced as the 2023 Laura Flood Memorial Race Champions. Moe kicked off the series winning the overall in the women’s GS on Friday, placed second among U16’s in Saturday’s GS, and fifth among U16’s in Sunday’s SL. Hoffman took second overall and first among U16’s in Friday’s GS, first among U16’s in Saturday’s GS, and second among U16’s in Sunday’s SL.

“The Laura Flood series once again felt like a celebration of alpine ski racing in our club and community!” said Nate Schwing, SVSEF Alpine U16 Head Coach. “It was a chance for SVSEF U16 and FIS racers to showcase their ski racing talent, which represents all the commitment and training they have put into this season. Our race venues are some of the most challenging in the west, and to see the skill, focus, and camaraderie demonstrated by our athletes was something to be proud of.”

The race is also open to U18 and U21 athletes from across the Intermountain Division.

Over the three days, SVSEF took home 26 podiums including 17 in the open (overall) category and 9 in the U16 category. Awards were given to the top five overall and the top five for U16.

Last year’s Laura Flood Memorial Race champion on the women’s side, and current SVSEF Alpine FIS Team athlete, Lowie Watkins (U18), had a strong return to the race series placing second overall in the first GS, winning the second GS overall, and finishing second overall in the women’s SL on Sunday. Madison Vieara-McCarthy (U18) landed in the top 10 overall in Friday’s GS and 13th overall in Sunday’s SL, while Ruby Crist (U18) placed seventh overall in Saturday’s GS.

For the men, SVSEF’s Will Kogelmann (U18) came out on top overall in Friday’s GS, with teammates Nils Galloway (U21) in fifth overall and Max Meucci (U18) eighth overall. On Saturday, the SVSEF men swept the GS podium with Max Meucci (U18) in first, Sacha Stern-Pre (U18) in second, and Cole Curci (U18) in third. Larsen Overby (U18) and Kjetil Hassman (U21) also land in the top 10 overall in seventh and eighth respectively.

The men’s slalom on Sunday was a five-deep sweep for SVSEF for the overall. Nils Galloway (U21), Max Meucci (U18), Tucker Smith (U16), Tommy Normand (U18), and Cole Curci (U18) finished in first through fifth place respectively. Nine of the top 15 men overall in Sunday’s slalom ski for SVSEF. Sacha Stern-Pre (U18) finished seventh, Larsen Overby (U18) finished eighth, Kjetil Hassman (U21) finished 10th and Owen Lancaster (U16) finished 11th.

SVSEF Top 15 Overall and U16 Results
Women’s GS 1 (Friday)
Overall
2nd - Lowie Watkins
4th - Ruby Smith
5th - Josie Sarchett
10th - Madison Vieara-McCarthy

U16
3rd - Ruby Smith
4th - Josie Sarchett

Men’s GS 1 (Friday)
Overall
1st - Will Kogelmann
3rd - Paxton Sammis
5th - Nils Galloway
8th - Max Meucci
10th - Tucker Smith
11th - Jay Blackburn
15th - Declan White

U16
2nd - Paxton Sammis
7th - Tucker Smith
8th - Jay Blackburn
12th - Declan White

Women’s GS 2 (Saturday)
Overall
1st - Lowie Watkins
5th - Ruby Smith
7th - Ruby Crist
12th - Sophia Hallstein

U16
4th - Ruby Smith

Men’s GS 2 (Saturday)
Overall
1st - Max Meucci
2nd - Sacha Stern-Pre
3rd - Cole Curci
6th - Paxton Sammis
7th - Larsen Overby
8th - Kjetil Hassman
9th - Tucker Smith
12th - Owen Lancaster
15th - Tommy Normand

U16
3rd - Paxton Sammis
4th - Tucker Smith
7th - Owen Lancaster

Women’s SL (Sunday)
Overall
1st - Ruby Smith
2nd - Lowie Watkins
11th - Josie Sarchett
13th - Madison Vieara-McCarthy

U16
1st - Ruby Smith
9th - Josie Sarchett

Men’s SL (Sunday)
Overall
1st - Nils Galloway
2nd - Max Meucci
3rd - Tucker Smith
4th - Tommy Normand
6th - Sacha Stern-Pre
7th - Larsen Overby
9th - Kjetil Hassman
10th - Owen Lancaster

U16
1st - Tucker Smith
4th - Owen Lancaster

For complete race results, please visit: https://www.imdalpine.org/alpine/races22/

RACE PHOTOS COURTESY OF THOMAS SMILEY


Grassroots to Grand Stage Diversity Project Inspires Inclusion and Opportunity

SVSEF aims to bring community’s children closer together through winter sport

The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) has introduced the Grassroots to Grand Stage Diversity Project to inspire ethnic and cultural diversity, inclusion, and opportunity for historically marginalized children to participate in SVSEF’s competitive sports programming. The project aims to raise $100,000 to help support these children who show a desire to continue, improve, and advance as winter sport athletes.

The Grassroots to Grand Stage Diversity Project (G2G Project) is designed to integrate with current learn-to-ski-and-ride programming at Rotarun Ski Area and Quigley Nordic Trails. The project will provide further support and education for athletes and families as they pursue higher level journeys with SVSEF across the spectrum of snowsport disciplines, from alpine and cross country, to snowboarding and other SVSEF programs.

“The free learn-to-ski Rota-Rippers after-school program has been incredibly successful in getting first generation skiers on the mountain,” said Sam Adicoff, Volunteer Coordinator for the G2G Project. “As a volunteer Rota-Rippers coach, I noticed that each year there were kids that really loved the program and were yearning for more. That was the genesis for this Grassroots to Grand Stage Diversity Project—providing funding and support for these kids to move into the competitive SVSEF programs.”

Support through grants, donors, and key partners in our community is pivotal to the G2G Project’s success. Scholarships including ski passes from Sun Valley Company, equipment leases from Sturtevant’s and PK’s Ski & Sports, SVSEF tuition support, and other mission-aligned expenses are some of the means of support provided to these young athletes so they can fully engage in the process and the opportunity before them. Cultivating healthy habits, skills, and passions also contribute to the project’s intent to foster well-rounded child development for youth in our mountain community.

“We recognize there are both cultural and financial hurdles that need to be addressed,” said Scott McGrew, Executive Director at SVSEF. “The G2G Project is the seed that can grow and beget further opportunities early and often for local families—specifically athletic opportunities to inspire deeper awareness and inclusion, which we’ve seen have lasting and profound implications on the life of a child.”

Fernanda Hurtado was six years old when she took her first turns on skis as part of the Rota-Rippers after-school program. She was inspired while watching the 2018 Winter Olympics on TV and hasn’t looked back. Now 11 years old, Fernanda has learned and grown through SVSEF Alpine’s LASAR program, Baldy Devo and Mini World Cup teams, and is now a member of the Alpine U12 Travel Team. “My favorite thing about ski racing is the speed and the gates—it’s fun and it makes me feel good!” said Fernanda Hurtado. “There are many things I like about being a part of SVSEF, but my favorite thing is the people and coaches.”

“Fernanda brings a contagious smile and a positive, driven attitude when she is at ski team," said Adele Savaria, Alpine U12 Travel Team Head Coach. “She is making new friends in her age group, which has been awesome to see her only continue to thrive in this environment.”

Following in his sister’s footsteps, Octavio “Tavi” Hurtado, too found his first snow legs with the Rota-Rippers and has since discovered his love for the moguls on the SVSEF Freestyle Progression Team. “I love the jumps and the moguls,” said Octavio Hurtado. “The coaches and the community are what I like the most about SVSEF.”

“Athletes like Octavio are what make our program as special as it is,” said Alec Poster, SVSEF Freestyle Progression Coach. “Tavi inspires his peers with his work ethic and keeps the environment fun with his sense of humor. He’s an old spirit that continues to push himself and all who have the pleasure of skiing with him.”

“Whether Octavio is on the hill or in the air barn, he consistently pushes for improvement,” said Wyatt Wilson, SVSEF Freestyle Travel Coach. “I cannot wait to see the heights that his dedication will bring him to. And congrats on the flip!”

“SVSEF is like family for us—we are blessed to be able to have Octavio and Fernanda in these programs,” said Fernando and Nallely Hurtado, Fernanda and Octavio’s parents. “We can see how they have evolved in this world of skiing—it’s more than a sport for them, it’s their passion! The different programs they practice are an art of expression—they love and respect their coaches, and they look up to them.”

Athletes like Fernanda and Octavio, and families like the Hurtado’s, have really provided the inspiration for the G2G Project—and now an upcoming group of talented, determined, and powerful young athletes have begun to shape the desired goals and outcomes and will continue to help guide the future of the project.

Eight-year-old Eva Gonzalez, a 3rd grader at Alturas Elementary School in Hailey, is one young athlete who has helped grow the passion and idea for the G2G Project. Eva is on the SVSEF Cross Country Devo South Team and plans to join SVSEF’s LASAR (Learn to Alpine Ski and Race) program held at Rotarun.[RS1]  She is an eager and determined young athlete with hopes and dreams of becoming the best skier she can.

Linda Hernandez is 10 years old and in 4th grade at Hemingway Elementary School in Ketchum. She is also on SVSEF’s Cross Country Devo South Team. In addition to skiing, Linda has been doing gymnastics for seven years, and like many kids her age, enjoys singing pop music and her favorite artist is Taylor Swift. Linda’s favorite thing about the Wood River Valley is the snow and her favorite thing about the ski team is she gets good exercise and it’s still fun!

“My husband and I think sports are important in our children’s lives,” said Sirlene Nunes, Linda’s mom. “My son and my husband snowboard but I don't ski downhill. About four years ago I had the opportunity to try cross country skiing and loved it, so the next season I asked Linda if she would like to try cross country with me and she loved it. That's how she started and now she is in her second year on the SVSEF development team.”

Ian Lozada attends Hemingway School in Ketchum as a 5th grader, loves math class, and aspires to be an architect when he is older. His parents came to the Wood River Valley over 20 years ago from Mexico and his father Hugo works for AC Houston Lumber. “My favorite thing about skiing is going fast downhill in the mountain environment with the forest around me,” said Ian, member of SVSEF’s Alpine U12 Home Team.

Justin Armas is a fourth grader at Hemingway Elementary School, where his favorite subject is science because he likes building things. He is skiing on both the Cross Country Devo North Team and the Alpine Baldy Devo Team and his favorite thing about being on ski team is going fast! Aside from skiing, Justin has been swimming and playing soccer for five years and started learning Jiu Jitsu last year. He wants to be a hip hop singer when he is older. Janet and Richard, Justin’s parents, are from Peru and have lived in Blaine County for 20 years. Richard’s first job was working in the Seattle Ridge Lodge for Sun Valley Company, and he is now self-employed as a painter and handyman.

People of color are vastly underrepresented in historically non-diverse pursuits like skiing. The G2G project takes representation as an initial step in shifting this narrative, while working closely with parents and community members to ensure the process is relevant and equitable. And sharing the impacts of the project with the broader community while celebrating through storytelling, fostering new and existing partnerships with our community, and highlighting the achievements of these young athletes will ultimately inspire a virtuous cycle of inclusion for generations to come.

The vision and goals of the G2G Project are designed to grow and expand as they gain community knowledge and financial support. Funds raised for the project will be utilized to support children identified through the grassroots programs who show a desire to continue, improve, and advance as winter sport athletes within SVSEF’s competitive programs.

The G2G Project will make long-term commitments to these dedicated athletes on the basis of annual reviews, and project outcomes will be measured by continued athlete participation, growth of the program, and athletic achievement.

To learn more or to support the Grassroots to Grand Stage Diversity Project, please contact Scott McGrew at scott@svsef.org or 208-726-4129.


Sammy Smith On Her Way to the World Cup

Smith to race with Team USA in Norway, Sweden, Estonia, and Finland

SVSEF Cross Country Comp Team member Sammy Smith is heading to the World Cup. Smith, who recently competed in the Junior World Championships in Whistler, Canada, was nominated to represent the U.S. Ski Team in four World Cup sprints in March. This opportunity will override Smith’s original plans to race at the Opa Cup Finals in Italy, which take place during the same time window.

“With strong racing at World Juniors and a second-place qualifier in the Minneapolis SuperTour, Sammy Smith has been awarded Sprint starts in the remaining World Cup competitions,” said Chris Mallory, SVSEF XC Gold Team Head Coach. “As one of the youngest Americans to ever start a World Cup, she’s beyond excited to dip her toe into World Cup racing and learn from our strong women’s team.”

The day after Sammy was offered the World Cup spots, she walked into the Lake Creek hut for training and her smile said it all. “She was grinning from ear to ear,” said Becky Woods, SVSEF Cross Country Program Director. “Her goal this season has been to qualify to ski in the World Cup and now it is in front of her. The opportunity to be around the best skiers in the world and live, train, and race with the likes of Jessie Diggins is a dream come true. So.. off she goes to compete for the U.S. Cross Country Ski Team!”

Smith will be competing in four sprint World Cup races, the first will be a classic sprint in Drammen, Norway on March 14. From there the team will head to Falun, Sweden; then Tallinn, Estonia; with the last race in Lahti, Finland. 

Competing at this level is not new to Smith, who also represented Team USA at the U17 World Junior Soccer Championships in India this past fall. 

“It takes a special talent to be able to compete at the highest level in two sports—especially given the differences in soccer and cross country skiing,” said Woods. “I have been with Sammy enough to know that she is a special athlete. Her ability to prioritize training for both sports, and her laser focus when she is competing in each discipline is incredible. She has big aspirations and we’re behind her all the way to go for it!”

Follow Sammy on her journey to the World Cup here

Photo of Sammy Smith at 2023 Junior World Championships by flyingpointroad.com


SVSEF Brings Home Overall Team Title at 2023 Intermountain Youth Ski Championships

Sixty-nine Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) Cross Country Team athletes traveled to the Soldier Hollow Nordic Center in Midway, UT this weekend for the Intermountain Youth Ski Championships. Athletes from clubs across the Intermountain Division in Idaho, Montana, Utah, and Western Wyoming competed in U8-U16 category individual start skate races, an open 6.6km mass start skate race, and a downhill obstacle course race on Saturday. The mass start classic races for the U8-U16 categories were held on Sunday.

“With nearly 70 kids competing in this race, the energy and enthusiasm made you want to be a part of our cross country team,” said SVSEF Cross Country Prep Team Coach, Kelley Yeates. “There were kids doing their first race ever, and they all really put it out there.”

At the conclusion of the weekend’s racing, SVSEF was announced as the overall team winner of the 2023 Intermountain Youth Ski Championships. They were also awarded the IMD U14 Cup, the award that recognizes season-long overall results for U14 athletes. SVSEF’s Tait Boschen placed third overall out of 56 boys in the field.

“We use the term “true grit” a lot and it is truly how I would describe these athletes,” said Yeates. “This sport is hard and it takes a tremendous amount of effort mentally and physically. But the best part is they cross the finish line exhausted and with the biggest glittery smiles!”

SVSEF Cross Country Team Athlete Results:

Day 1: Downhill Obstacle Race (Skier X)
U10 Women
6 - Hazel Schmidt
7 - Piper Renner
8 - Nina O'Sullivan
10 - Hope Lloyd
12 - Violet Resko
13 - Elsa Burdette
15 - Josephine Neet
16 - Mahayla Shipp-Stephenson
17 - Holly Lynch
18 - Tallulah Gerald
19 - Abbigale Liberatore
20 - Savannah Twichell
21 - Wynne McGregor
22 - Abigail Sirek
24 - Rose O'Grady

U12 Women
4 - Sydney Nelson
5 - Isla Sundby
8 - Piper Gerald
9 - Payton Daley-Scheingraber
12 - Satchel Swindley
19 - Eisley Burdette
21 - Lexi Pinizzotto
22 - Willa Brozoski Schrader
23 - Penelope Zook
24 - Amelie Ries
25 - Isla Masner

U14 Women
1 - Zoe Liberatore
6 - Josephine Renner
12 - Dylan Buck
16 - Eavan Brown
17 - Lauryn Stevens
23 - Lliah Bicas-Dolgen
24 - Eleanor Sirek
26 - Cora Brozowski Schrader
27 - Stella St. George
29 - Tessa Dondero
33 - Natalia Chudleigh
34 - Vivian Cunningham
35 - Anna Koonce

U16 Women
3 - Ingrid Pratt

U8 Men
2 - Stephen Chudleigh
3 - Keaton Swindley
6 - Theodore Brozoski Schrader

U10 Men
7 - Asa Sattler
11 - Daniel Chudleigh
13 - Henri Allaire
14 - Ford Ramsay
15 - Spencer Flynn

U12 Men
10 - Cameron Gilman
11 - Thijs Lloyd
19 - Jedidiah Schmidt
22 - Cody Lloyd
29 - Auguste Allaire
33 - Silas Seppa

U14 Men
1 - Tait Boschen
9 - Duncan Fryberger
15 - Judah Rosenlund
18 - Bailey Kurtz
23 - Callahan Hebert
26 - Jake Jacoby
27 - Henry Flynn
31 - Owen Wellner
36 - Finn O'Donnell
37 - Angus Ramsay
43 - Knox Coury

U16 Men
3 - Felix Wilson

Day 1 - Individual Skate Start
U8 Men
2 - Keaton Swindley
4 - Theodore Borzoski Schrader

U10 Women
5 - Nina O'Sullivan
6 - Violet Resko
7 - Hazel Schmidt
11 - Mahayla Shipp-Stephenson
12 - Elsa Burdette
13 - Piper Renner
14 - Hope Lloyd
17 - Holly Lynch
18 - Tallulah Gerald
19 - Abbigale Liberatore
20 - Josie Dondero
21 - Abigail Sirek
22 - Josephine Neet
24 - Savannah Twichell
25 - Wynne McGregor
26 - Rose O'Grady

U10 Men
8 - Asa Sattler
9 - Daniel Chudleigh
14 - Henri Allaire
16 - Ford Ramsay
17 - Spencer Flynn

U12 Women
2 - Paton Daley-Scheingraber
3 - Sydney Nelson
15 - Penelope Look
16 - Piper Gerald
17 - Satchel Swindley
18 - Isla Sundby
19 - Eisley Burdette
23 - Lexi Pinizzotto
25 - Isla Masner
26 - Willa Brozoski Schrader
27 - Amelie Ries

U12 Men
11 - Cameron Gilman
12 - Jedidiah Schmidt
14 - Thijs Lloyd
16 - Felix Pott
20 - Jack Flynn
21 - Cody Lloyd
31 - Auguste Allaire
37 - Silas Seppa

U14 Women
7 - Zoe Liberatore
11 - Josephine Renner
12 - Eavan Brown
17 - Dylan Buck
22 - Stella St. George
30 - Cora Brozowski Schrader
32 - Vivian Cunningham
33 - Lauryn Stevens
34 - Tessa Dondero
37 - Eleanor Sirek
38 - Natalia Chudleigh
39 - Leah Bicas-Dolgen
41 - Anna Koonce

U14 Men
2 - Tait Boschen
21 - Duncan Fryberger
22 - Bailey Kurtz
27 - Callahan Hebert
32 - Finn O’Donnell
33 - Jake Jacoby
34 - Owen Wellner
35 - Henry Flynn
41 - Judah Rosenlund
46 - Angus Ramsay
48 - Knox Coury

U16 Women
6 - Ingrid Pratt

U16 Men
4 - Felix Wilson

Open Women
3 - Joan Scheigraber

Open Men
5 - Dan Chudleigh

Day 2: Mass Start Classic
U8 Men
2 - Keaton Swindley
4 - Theodore Brozoski Schrader

U10 Women
2 - Nina O'Sullivan
6 - Hazel Schmidt
8 - Violet Resko
9 - Abbigale Liberatore
10 - Mahayla Shipp-Stephenson
12 - Piper Renner
14 - Elsa Burdette
15 - Josie Dondero
16 - Tallulah Gerald
18 - Wynne McGregor
19 - Abigail Sirek
20 - Hope Lloyd
21 - Josephine Neet
22 - Holly Lynch
25 - Savannah Twichell
26 - Rose O'Grady

U10 Men
7 - Asa Sattler
8 - Henry Allaire
11 - Spencer Flynn
12 - Ford Ramsay

U12 Women
6 - Sydney Nelson
8 - Payton Daley-Scheingraber
15 - Isla Sundby
18 - Satchel Swindley
19 - Penelope Zook
20 - Lexi Pinizzotto
21 - Eisley Burdette
22 - Piper Gerald
23 - Willa Brozoski Schrader
25 - Isla Masner
27 - Amelie Ries

U12 Men
9 - Cameron Gilman
10 - Thijs Lloyd
18 - Jedidiah Schmidt
19 - Cody Lloyd
20 - Felix Pott
25 - Jack Flynn
26 - Auguste Allaire
35 - Silas Seppa

U14 Women
5 - Zoe Liberatore
16 - Eavan Brown
17 - Stella St. George
18 - Josephine Renner
25 - Cora Brozowski Schrader
26 - Dylan Buck
29 - Lauryn Stevens
30 - Tessa Dondero
32 - Vivian Cunningham
37 - Eleanor Sirek
38 - Lliah Bicas-Dolgen
40 - Anna Koonce

U14 Men
6 - Tait Boschen
17 - Duncan Fryberger
18 - Bailey Kurtz
27 - Owen Wellner
29 - Callahan Hebert
30 - Jack Jacoby
33 - Henry Flynn
39 - Finn O'Donnell
41 - Angus Ramsay
42 - Judah Rosenlund
44 - Know Coury

U16 Women
7 - Ingrid Pratt

U16 Men
4 - Felix Wilson

For complete event results, please visit https://my.raceresult.com/231586/


Ten SVSEF Cross Country Team Athletes Named to IMD Junior National Team

SVSEF’s U18 women are force to be reckoned with in Bozeman

The SVSEF Cross Country Comp Team and members of the Prep Team traveled to Bozeman, MT this weekend to compete in the final Junior National Qualifier (JNQ) event of the season. By Sunday afternoon, 10 SVSEF athletes had been named to the Intermountain Division (IMD) Junior National Team and will compete at the 2023 USSA Cross Country Ski Junior National Championships in Fairbanks, AK, March 13-16.

"It was a huge weekend at the final JNQ in Bozeman,” said SVSEF Cross Country Comp Team Head Coach, Ashley Knox. “We were treated to near perfect racing conditions and our athletes threw down some standout performances including a clutch weekend for Dexter Morrison to lock in his Junior Nationals spot. It is always so exciting to see the final races and how things shake out—this was a great weekend for us.”

Leading the charge were the SVSEF U18 women. In the classic sprint, they took seven of the top 10 places; and captured six of the top 10 places in the skate mass start. Berkeley Canfield led SVSEF’s dominant U18 squad to a third place in the classic sprint, with seven teammates finishing in the top 10, and Gina Greenburg captured first place in the U20 freestyle sprint.

“It was a fun and competitive weekend of racing,” said JodieWillow Maguire. “I’m truly grateful for the support of the coaches and team as we head to Junior Nationals!”

For the men, Dexter Morrison raced to a top 10 in a hugely competitive U18/U20 skate mass start, with post-grad Miguel Fresco taking third place overall. SVSEF Cross Country Prep Team skier Tait Boschen won the boys U14 skate mass start race. Galen Grohusky and Dexter Morrison were superb in the freestyle sprint, both competing in the “A” final, finishing a strong fifth and sixth respectively, which awarded them second and third on the U18 podium.

The IMD Junior National Team was named after the final JNQ race in Bozeman on Feb. 19. 

U18/20 Women

Berkeley Canfield
JodieWillow Maguire
Cora Faye Scott
Molly Maybach
Anika Vandenburgh
Eloise Herbert
Aisley Grohusky

U18/20 Men

Miguel Fresco Hanlon
Dexter Morrison

U16 Women

Mazzy Conners

SVSEF Athlete Results / Bozeman JNQ

Saturday, February 18
Classic Sprint

U16 Women

25. Mazzy Conners
30. Riley Siegel
35. Amelia Pfau
39. Scout Kendall
41. Anna Gilman
43. Torin Vandenburgh

U18/20 Women

3. JodieWillow Maguire
4. Berkeley Canfield
6. Molly Maybach
7. Eloise Herbert
8. Anika Vandenburgh
9. Cora Faye Scott
10. Aisley Grohusky
20. Emma Singer
21. Gina Greenburg
24. Elise Voorhees
25. Josie Gilman
27. Lucy Carter

U16 Men

12. Charlie St. George
13. Stratton Cunningham
16. Zach Quesnel
25. McCallen Campbell
36. Cyrus Pott
37. Caleo Morrison
41. Luca Finegan

U18/20 Men

5. Galen Grohusky
6. Dexter Morrison
12. Miguel Fresco Hanlon
18. Holden Archie
22. Teddy Hobbs
42. Dave Walters
44. Dyan Prabowo
52. Whit Brown

Sprint Qualifier
U12/14 Women

21. Stella St. George
31. Vivian Cunningham

Sprint Qualifier
U12/14 Men

7. Tait Boschen
20. Bailey Kurtz
34. Cameron Gilman
46. Angus Ramsay

For complete Classic Sprint event results, visit https://my.raceresult.com/233300/ 

Sunday, February 19
Freestyle Mass Start

U18/20 Men – 10km Freestyle

3. Miguel Fresco Hanlon
8. Dexter Morrison
20. Teddy Hobbs
21. Holden Archie
30. Galen Grohusky
40. Dylan Prabowo
41. Whit Brown
49. Dave Walters

U18/20 Women – 10km Freestyle

4. JodieWillow Maguire
5. Cora Faye Scott
6. Molly Maybach
7. Berkeley Canfield
8. Eloise Hebert
14. Annika Vandenburgh
15. Aisley Grohusky
18. Emma Singer
22. Elise Voorhees

U16 Men – 5km Freestyle

16. Zach Quesnel
22. Stratton Cunningham
23. Charlie St. George
28. Cyrus Pott
31. Caleo Morrison
39. Luca Finegan

U16 Women – 5km Freestyle

32. Riley Siegel
34. Amelia Pfau
35. Scout Kendall
44. Torin Vandenburgh

U14 Men – 3.5km Freestyle

1. Tait Boschen
25. Bailey Kurtz
37. Angus Ramsay

U14 Women – 3.5km Freestyle

14. Stella St. George
24. Vivian Cunningham

U12 Men – 3.5km Freestyle

9. Cameron Gilman

For complete Freestyle Mass Start event results, please visit https://my.raceresult.com/233302/ 

For a full list of qualifiers please refer to the IMD website here (click on 2023 Final JN’s Points Ranking): https://www.intermountainxc.com/jn-rankings 

Featured photo by Tory Canfield


SVSEF Freestyle Spectacular and Roundhouse Rumble Brings Home-Slope Advantages

The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) has hosted two Intermountain Freestyle Competitions this season. Both of the competitions had single and dual runs. The Sun Valley Freestyle Spectacular was held Jan 28-29 on Roundhouse slope. The second event, the Roundhouse Rumble took place on Feb 11-12.

This past weekend at the Roundhouse Rumble was the largest showing of SVSEF athletes with 36 athletes competing. Athletes traveled from the Intermountain, Rocky Central, Eastern and Far West Divisions to compete in both competitions.

“The Roundhouse Rumble was packed full of standout performances from SVSEF athletes,” said Wyatt Wilson, SVSEF Freestyle Travel Coach. “The hard work they have been putting in on the hill, at the gym, and in the classroom was clear to everyone watching this weekend!”

“The Roundhouse Rumble was a weekend of firsts for some of the SVSEF athletes,” said SVSEF Freestyle Head Coach John Grigsby. Nic Rubenstein threw his first-ever cork 1080 (off-axis flip with 3 spins) in the competition, which landed him in 3rd place overall on Saturday just behind his teammate, Erik Babcock. SVSEF athlete Sebastian Boiran landed his first flip in a competition.

Athletes are hopeful that these competitions will qualify them for the 2023 Junior Nationals and U.S. Nationals held in March. Junior Nationals will be held in Steamboat, CO, March 14-17. As of Feb. 15, SVSEF has 17 athletes qualified for Junior Nationals and a few athletes have qualified for the U.S. Nationals. U.S. Nationals will be held in Waterville Valley, NH, March 22-26. There are four qualifying competitions remaining in the season where SVSEF athletes can qualify to compete amongst the best in the country.

“We are thankful to Sun Valley Resort for helping us host both of these competitions this season and to local company Rutt Mogul for sponsoring the event,” said Grigsby.

RESULTS: (Top 30 Overall)

Freestyle Spectacular Results:
Day 1 female (Jan 28)
Tillie Babcock - 5
Abigail Hobbs - 14
Catherine Dolson - 15
Isla Sundby - 19
Audrey Smith - 20
Nina Viesturs - 22
Kyra Singh - 24
Grace Bloedorn - 26

Day 1 Male (Jan 28)
Erik Babcock - 8
Drake Lovilen - 12
Will Hausmann - 14
Sylas Barrett - 17
Townes Van Der Meulen - 18
Nic Rubenstein - 19
Austin Mcmahan - 20
Deacon Buckley - 21
Beau Forelli - 22
Jack Tierney - 25
Mois Bicas Dolgen - 26
Dean Kennedy - 27
Jack Kendall - 29
Cal Strachan - 30

Day 2 Female (Jan 29)
Tillie Babcock - 5
Sienna Loredo - 11
Abigail Hobbs - 13
Isla Sundby - 14
Audrey Smith - 19
Catherine Dolson - 21

Day 2 Male (Jan 29)
Erik Babcock - 2
Drake Lovlien - 12
Austin Mcmahan - 15
Beau Forelli - 16
Jack Tierney - 18
Mois Bicas-Dolgen - 19
Jack Kendall - 22
Brodie Forelli - 23
Hoken Johnston - 28
Dean Kennedy - 30

Roundhouse Rumble Results:
Day 1 Women (Feb 11)
Tillie Babcock - 1
Isla Sundby - 13 (1st F11)
Catherine Dolson - 15 (3rd F13)
Sienna Loredo - 18
Audrey Smith - 19
Taylor Rybak - 23
Kyra Singh - 28

Day 1 Men (Feb 11)
Erik Babcock - 3
Nic Rubenstein - 6
Drake Lovlien - 8
Sylas Barrett - 9
Will Hausmann - 10
Auston Mcmahan - 11
Townes Van Der Meulen - 13
Mois Bicas-Dolgen - 14
Beau Forelli - 15
Jack Tierney - 16
Cal Strachan - 20
Brodie Forelli - 21
Sebastien Boiron - 25
Hoken Johnston - 30

Day 2 Women (Feb 12)
Tillie Babcock - 1
Catherine Dolson - 11
Isla Sundby - 14
Sienna Loredo - 16
Audrey Smith - 23
Nina Viesturs - 24
Taylor Rubak - 26
Grace Bloedorn - 27

Day 2 Men (Feb 12)
Erik Babcock - 2
Nic Rubenstein - 3
Sylas Barrett - 8
Drake Lovlien - 10
Will Hausmann - 12
Townes Van Der Muelen - 14
Beau Forelli - 15
Austin Mcmahan - 17
Sebastien Boiron - 20
Brodie Forelli - 21
Jack Tierney - 23
Cal Strachan - 24
Mateo Hausske - 26
Mois Bicas-Dolgen - 29


Boardercross, ski cross, and slopestyle bring high speed and big air to Dollar Mountain

USASA Big Mountain West Snowboard and Freeski Series Puts on Show Feb. 9-12

Dollar Mountain hosted the USASA Big Mountain West Snowboard and Freeski Series Feb. 9-12 including four Boardercross/Ski Cross races and two Slopestyle events. At the conclusion of the event on Sunday, the Beverly Hay Snowboard Cup was awarded as it has been since 1999, for outstanding overall snowboarding.

The series kicked off on the cross track, with more than eighty racers registered for each race in multiple age groups. The track was built for speed, often rewarding riders who got the best start. SVSEF had athletes from the Snowboard, Freeski, and Alpine X teams taking part in the Boardercross and Ski Cross events, with the Snowboard and Freeski Teams continuing through the weekend for Slopestyle.

The most competitive racing on the snowboard side came from the Menehune (11-12) and Breaker (13-14) age groups. On the ladies’ side, SVSEF’s Camille Armeen and Naomi Gorringe were standouts, often pulling out front first and never looking back. Armeen took the top step of the podium for the Menehune Girls (11-12) in multiple races, with her teammate Vivian Smith capturing third place a number of times. Gorringe snagged first place in more than one race for the Breaker Girls (13-14). On the boys side riding for SVSEF, Ryan Olson took second place for the Menehune Boys (11-12) more than once and Uzzi Almaras did the same for the Youth Men (15-16).

Over the first two days and four Boardercross races, the SVSEF Snowboard Team had multiple top tens and a number of riders doing their first-ever races—the events were a great stepping stone for everyone.

On the heels of last week’s Ski Cross competition at Palisades Tahoe where the SVSEF Alpine X Team girls swept the podium and the boys took second and third, the team showed up ready to rock and roll at Dollar Mountain for the series of ski cross races. In the Freeski Junior (17-18) Women category, SVSEF’s Reece Walther-Porino, Whitney Jannotta, Anabel Viesturs, Gretel Huss, and Helen Tobias swapped places on the podium over the course of four races over two days, dominating the race. In the Freeski Breaker (13-14) Boys category, Jay Blackburn and Tucker Reimund went 1-2 in both races on Thursday.

At this point, all athletes on the SVSEF Alpine X Team have earned the points required to compete at the national championships at Copper Mountain, CO April 9-15. “It was great watching these athletes the last couple weeks,” said Steve Thompson, SVSEF Alpine X Head Coach. “Their dedication to training this year definitely paid off—now it’s time to get ready for the national championships!”

Barrett Beyer and Sam Robins from the SVSEF Freeski Team jumped into the ski cross races and each grabbed a third place finish in their respective age groups, Freeski Menehune (11-12) and Freeski Grommet (9-10).

As the competition transitioned to Slopestyle on Saturday, the Dollar Mountain Crew delivered a great course that allowed skiers and riders to really showcase what they’ve been working towards all season. “Having riders from snowboard hotbeds like Park City and Jackson in town to ride opened some of the kids’ eyes to what can be done on our local hill,” said Andy Gilbert, SVSEF Snowboard Team Head Coach. “The stoke level was super high and it showed in everyone’s riding.”

On the snowboarding side of things, standouts again were Camille Armeen who was pushing the level of riding in the Menehune Girls with great amplitude and good grabs. The level being pushed by the athletes saw Vivian Smith step up her game and earn her first Slopestyle podium with a confidence and flow that coaches all knew she had and have been waiting to see. Menehune Boys had SVSEF’s biggest group with Enzo Schmillen, Charlie Theobald, Bixby Swanger, Henry Georgiades and Miles Hatzenbuehler all stepping up to bigger tricks and putting their take on what slopestyle riding looks like. Rylan Olson was throwing bs360’s, half cabs, and 540’s—really taking a big step forward in his riding. Naomi Gorringe threw huge with a run that went 50/50, fs/360, method air, fs180, and 50/50 to boardslide. On her heels was Callie Allen who “busted” off a bit of a slump and threw down a smooth run with clean rail tricks and good amplitude on her straight airs. Karsen Miller, working on grabbing some points towards USASA Nationals this year, was throwing 360’s both directions and added a 540 before the weekend was finished.

Highlight results for the SVSEF Snowboard Team in Slopestyle include:

Day 1 Slopestyle
Menehune (11-12) Girls
1st Camille Armeen

Breaker (13-14) Girls
1st Naomi Gorringe
2nd Callie Allen

Youth Men (15-16)
2nd Karsen Miller

Day 2 Slopestyle
Menehune (11-12) Girls
1st Vivian Smith

Breaker (13-14) Girls
1st Naomi Gorringe
2nd Callie Allen

Youth Men (15-16)
2nd Karsen Miller

The SVSEF Freeski Team showed up ready to slay on their home hill. Anton Holter posted the highest score of the weekend with a 99 out 100, a near perfect run. “Send this man to the X-Games!” said Tyler Conway, SVSEF Freeski Team Head Coach. “Such an MVP weekend—these athletes showed up for the game ready to ski and the podium sweep for Freeski Youth Men was simply awesome. Next stop is Mammoth Mountain February 15th—GO TEAM!”

Highlight results for the SVSEF Freeski Team in slopestyle include:

Day 1 Slopestyle
Freeski Menehune (11-12) Boys
3rd Barret Beyer
4th Emmet Crist

Freeski Breaker (13-14) Girls
2nd Blue Allen

Freeski Breaker (13-14) Boys
1st Anders Coulter
2nd Kai Van Bueren
3rd Zack Torres
4th Leon Lo

Freeski Youth (15-16) Men
1st Zeppelin Pilaro
3rd George Corkery
4th Finn Wolfrom

Freeski Open Class Men
1st Anton Holter

Day 2 Slopestyle
Freeski Breaker (13-14) Girls
2nd Blue Allen

Freeski Youth (15-16) Men
3rd Easton Turk

The weekend concluded with the presentation of The Beverly Hay Cup, which has been awarded for outstanding overall snowboarding since 1999. Past winners include two-time Olympian Graham Watanabe, Olympic Gold Medalist Kaitlyn Farrington and many riders who have contributed to snowboarding in a variety of ways. Beverly (Hay) DeChevrieux was on hand for the awards, as was two-time Olympian and SVSEF Snowboard Team Alum, Chase Josey, who awarded medals to the kids on the final day.

With the space on the existing trophy now full of names, a new trophy for the Beverly Hay Cup was unveiled this year, designed and created by Christian Nickum and his crew at Rocky Mountain Hardware. The winners of the Beverly Hay Snowboard Cup are calculated based on a combination of factors. Athletes earn a cumulative point total based on their results in the fourth boardercross race of the series and both slopestyle events. In addition, factors are weighed based on the competitiveness within the groups, sportsmanship displayed throughout the series, and the athletes’ progression in their riding along with how they are pushing their level of riding throughout the series.

On Sunday afternoon, the Beverly Hay Snowboard Cup was awarded to Naomi Gorringe of the SVSEF Snowboard Team (Breaker Girls 13-14) and Ellis Swain of the Jackson Hole Ski & Snowboard Club (Breaker Boys 13-14). Gorringe placed first in the fourth Boardercross race and won both Slopestyle events within the Breaker Girls group. Swain placed third in the fourth Boardercross race and won both Slopestyle events within the Breaker Boys group.

“Naomi showed great sportsmanship over the week of the event and her riding really stood out in the women’s field,” said Gilbert. “Ellis showed his well-rounded riding all week; his Slopestyle runs included Cab540, Front7, BS7, and throwing a double wildcat on the big jump.”

For complete event results, CLICK HERE and select Big Mountain West Series in the dropdown menu.

Feature photo by Craig Wolfrom.


2023 Nordic Cup Results

Thank you to the Papoose Club for the festivities, SVSEF for race management, BCRD for the incredible trails and all the sponsors of this year’s Nordic Cup at Quigley Nordic Trails!

103 racers from ages 1- 14 gathered with COSTUMES and GLITTER to show us what fun it is to be a winter athlete!

CLICK HERE FOR RESULTS

Check out the professional photos available for purchase from SMILEY'S MOUNTAIN PHOTO!

Ready for a FUN, FREE ski race for kids? Online registration is now open for the KINDER CUP, Sunday, March 5th!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE KINDER CUP.

To volunteer for upcoming Papoose Club events, CLICK HERE!

Feature photo courtesy of Regan Nelson.


Monroe Cup at Rotarun Ski Area Honors Legendary Lane Monroe

Young athletes from across the Intermountain Division race to qualify for IMD Championships

The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation hosted the annual Monroe Cup alpine ski race at Rotarun Ski Area Feb. 4-5. Named after SVSEF legend Lane Monroe, the Monroe Cup brings nearly 200 U10, U12, and a handful of U14 athletes from across the region to compete in this Intermountain Division (IMD) Qualifier event. Monroe was the Program Director/Head Alpine Coach at SVSEF from 1970-1996 and also served as a U.S. Ski Team coach from 1973-1975 as the Men's Special coach (1973-74) and Head Women's Coach (1975-1976).

The 2023 Monroe Cup featured two slalom races (four runs) on Saturday for the girls, and the same for the boys on Sunday. The SVSEF Alpine U10 Travel Team and U12 Travel Team competed in the event, and athletes traveled from McCall Winter Sports Club (MWC), Jackson Hole Ski Club (JHSC), Bogus Basin Ski Education Foundation (BBSEF), Grand Targhee Ski and Snowboard Foundation (GTSSF), and Alyeska Ski Club (ASC) to make for great competition.

Rotarun Ski Area presented the perfect slalom venue for racing and spectating. The courses start out steep and allow athletes to travel fast down the pitch and carry speed to the flats into the finish. Hundreds of parents, families, and friends gathered to watch the races and partake in the festivities of the day including award ceremonies and the local La Parrilla food truck.

Saturday brought bluebird skies and sunshine for the U10 Women’s races, where SVSEF’s Alta Questad stood atop the podium in first place in the first race of the day. “If you don’t win at something, keep trying hard to achieve your dreams,” said Questad. “I’m so happy and thankful I get the chance to race!” Questad captured fourth place in the U10 Women’s second race.

Amelia Beck rounded out the U10 Women’s podium in 5th place for both races. For the U12 Women, SVSEF’s Savannah Pringle took second place in both races. In the first race, Taylor Rundell took fourth and Imogen Hutchisen fifth. Across both U12 Women races, SVSEF athletes took ten top-ten places.

“That was an amazing weekend of racing!” said Adele Savaria, SVSEF U12 Travel Team Head Coach. “We are so proud of all of the kids and their skiing and the team spirit they showed for their teammates. All the hard work they've put in so far this season shows with the great improvements by everyone.” 

The snowy conditions on Sunday made racing challenging for the boys on Sunday. For the U10 Men, SVSEF’s Alex Grant earned two podium spots—second place in the morning race followed by a first place in the afternoon, while Halsten Bruun captured third place in the second race. SVSEF’s U12 Men had a stellar showing in both races. Henry Questad won the first race with Finn Malone on the podium in fifth, followed by four out of five spots on the podium for the second race were claimed by the SVSEF team: Cameron Beck (1), Henry Questad (2), Corbin Flood (3), and Thijs Lloyd (5).

For complete race results, please visit the links below:

Women Race #1
Women Race #2
Men Race #1
Men Race #2

Below are a couple of links to race photos taken by Thomas Smiley. There are some really great ones! If you are interested in purchasing any photos, you can do so directly through these links by clicking on the photo and adding to your cart. Different sizes and finishes are available, as well as digital images.
https://www.onlinepictureproof.com/smileysmtphoto/albums/2023_sun_valley_alpine_races_/

https://www.onlinepictureproof.com/smileysmtphoto/albums/2023_sun_valley_alpine_races_/844580/browse/

SVSEF Athlete Results:

Women - SL Saturday, February 4 

Race #1 U10 Women

1 - Alta Questad

5 - Amelia Beck 

6 - Sophie Robins

8 - Lauren Larrabee

9 - Presley Jensen 

10 - Teodora Smither 

15 - Samantha Heidel 

19 - Lilla Bloedorn 

21 - Arielle Ries

26 - Marie McNeal 

28 - Zephyr Johnson 

30 - Sarah Heinz 

36 - Georgia Hill 

37 - Lillee Haynes 

40 - Marlowe Jones 

43 - Josie Dondero 

46 - Kailani Kreitler 

47 - Lexi Kennedy

Race #1 U12 Women

2 - Savannah Pringle 

4 - Taylor Rundell 

5 - Imogen Hutchisen 

6 - Piper Spengler 

8 - Jennings Fraser 

10 - Camille Reid 

13 - Olivia Harrington 

19 - Fernanda Hurtado 

23 - Aviella Buoncristiani 

24 - Brianna Smiley

28 - Brady Bloomfield 

31 - Gaia Luem 

32 - Makenna Steel 

34 - Kinley Letson 

35 - Stevie Crist 

37 - Iliana Little 

39 - Payton Scheigraber

41 - Halley McGrew 

43 - Irie Black 

52 - Hannah Howard

Race #2 U10 Women

4 - Alta Questad 

5 - Amelia Beck 

7 - Teodora Smither 

10 - Lauren Larrabee 

11 - Presley Jensen 

12 - Sophie Robins

15 - Arielle Ries 

18 - Lilla Bloedorn 

22 - Zephyr Johnson 

23 - Marie McNeal 

32 - Georgia Hill 

34 - Lillee Haynes 

35 - Georgia Bea Stansberry 

36 - Marlowe Jones 

37 - Sarah Heinz 

39 - Josie Dondero 

43 - Kailani Kreitler 

44 - Lexi Kennedy 

Race #2 U12 Women

2 - Savannah Pringle 

6 - Imogen Hutchisen 

7 - Camille Reid 

8 - Jennings Fraser 

9 - Taylor Rundell 

10 - Ava Gilmour

13 - Fernanda Hurtado 

16 - Olivia Harrington 

26 - Brianna Smiley 

27 - Aviella Buoncristiani 

29 - Makenna Steel 

32 - Kinley Letson 

33 - Iliana Little 

34 - Brady Bloomfield 

35 - Stevie Crist 

38 - Irie Black 

43 - Payton Scheigraber 

48 - Hannah Howard 

Men - SL Sunday, February 5

Race #1 U10 Men 

2 - Alex Grant 

6 - Asa Sattler 

8 - Logan Steel 

9 - Walker Gove 

18 - Griffyn Kearney 

Race #1 U12 Men

1 - Henry Questad

5 - Finn Malone 

6 - Thijs Lloyd 

10 - Charlie Spengler 

11 - Coen Lamb

15 - Welsey Sewell 

19 - Cameron Beck 

22 - Hunter Gove 

23 - Eli Sattler 

25 - Cody Lloyd

31 - Brixen Ehleringer 

34 - Cash Mintz 

Race #2 U10 Men

1 - Alex Grant 

3 - Halsten Bruun

6 - Walker Gove 

Race #2 U12 Men

1 - Cameron Beck 

2 - Henry Questad

3 - Corbin Flood 

5 - Thijs Lloyd 

6 - Charlie Spengler 

11 - James Holman 

15 - Cash Mintz 

19 - Brixen Ehleringer 

21 - Hunter Gove 

27 - Eli Sattler 

28 - Wesley Sewell 

32 - Cody Lloyd 

 


SVSEF’s Jake Adicoff Strikes Gold and Silver at 2023 Para Nordic Worlds

Adicoff and guide, Sam Wood, bring home two gold, two silver for Team USA!

SVSEF XC Gold Team athlete, Jake Adicoff, along with his guide in the Visually Impaired division, Sam Wood, are bringing home a pair of gold and silver from the 2023 Para Nordic World Championships, held Jan. 22-29 in Ostersund, Sweden. Adicoff and Wood medaled in all four events they competed in. They compete in the Para Nordic Men's Visually Impaired category.

“Jake and Sam put together a fantastic week of racing in Ostersund,” said Chris Mallory, SVSEF XC Gold Team Head Coach. “They work as well as any guide/athlete pairing out there. Very fun last day of competition in the relay where they had the opportunity to hunt down a few nations in the final leg to bring home Gold. Such a unique event where you can pair up sit skiers, standing and visually impaired. Just an inspiring group of athletes with US Para Nordic, and hard working staff.”

Following the team’s first silver medal of the World Championships in the Men’s Visually Impaired 18 km Individual Classic event, U.S. Paralympics Nordic Skiing shared on their Instagram, “the dynamic duo is back!” 

In 2022, Adicoff and Wood racked up gold, silver, and bronze at the Para Nordic World Championships in Lillehammer, Norway, and went on to the 2022 Beijing Paralympics, where they brought home a gold and two silver medals for Team USA.

Adicoff and Wood followed up their silver in Ostersund, with their first gold medal of the Championships in the Cross-Country Sprint event—subsequently being dubbed “Sprint Royalty” by U.S. Paralympics Nordic Skiing. They added another silver to their medal count in the 10km Cross Country event, and then rounded out their World Championships bringing home gold for Team USA in the Mixed Relay 4 x 2.5km on the final day of competition.

“It was an awesome day,” said Sam Wood, following Team USA’s win in the Mixed Relay. “We had to put the pedal down from the start to have any chance of making up the distance to first place. It made it both a really hard and exciting race. Crossing the finish line was definitely a huge sigh of relief! The team all skied amazing legs and really set Jake up for success. So fun to win medals with this amazing group of people!”

For more information and complete results, please visit https://www.fis-ski.com/en/para-snowsports/para-nordic 

Photos: Ralf Kuckuck