News
Racing
Calendar
Racing
Outlook
Results
High School
College
Archives
|
Vivian Hett, Seeley Hills Classic, January 12, 2019 |
Peter Moore on the hunt, Minnesota State Meet, February 14, 2019 |
Jackson Adler, Wisconsin State Meet, February 10, 2019 |
Women's 22K champ, Maggie Pierson, Three Rivers Rennet, January 19, 2019 |
Matt Liebsch leading the pack, Pre-Loppet, January 6, 2019 |
Mara McCollor and Luci Anderson, first and second, Section 6 Championships, February 4, 2019 |
Highlights
 Kortelopet Coverage
February 22, 2019
Textbook perfect conditions Friday morning for the Kortelopet events, racing from Hwy OO to downtown Hayward. Sunshine, temps in the 20s, and fast firm trail conditions resulted in many smiling faces at the Main Street finish line. The men's 29K skate race came down to the lead pack of five that fractured in the final kilometer with McEwan Rodefeld taking the lead on the run up Main Street to collect the title, Drake Hacker second and Nick Niemi third. In the women's race, Olivia Dreger repeated as women's champion, taking the victory by over five minutes, with Sara Morse posting the second fastest time, Susanne Hill third. In the classic division, Lars Dewall strided to the top time on the day, with teammates Daniel Huhtala and Ryan Thieme dueling it out for second, Huhtala taking it. Johanna Craig cruised to the women's title, four minutes ahead of Liv Myers with Anna Schmidt notching the third fastest time. Results linked in, along with big photosets from the start and finish.
World Championships: Freestyle Sprints
February 21, 2019
The World Championships opened in Seefeld, Austria with freestyle sprint events on Thursday. The sprint finals exceeded expectations with some of the most exciting battles in recent memory. In the ladies final, Maiken Caspersen Falla, Norway, survived a triple threat from Sweden (which self-destructed) to take the victory, Stina Nilsson, Sweden, second and Mari Eide, Norway, third. The men's final was an epic battle between Italy's Federico Pellegrino and an angry Johannes Hosflot Klaebo, with Klaebo pulling ahead for the men's title with Russian Gleb Retivykh taking third. Jessie Diggins was the top US skier, advancing to the semi-finals before exiting. Simi Hamilton also made the semi-finals to lead the US men.
Related:
Results: Freestyle Sprints
World Championships in Seefeld
February 19, 2019
The 2019 World Championships start up this Wednesday, Feb 20th and run through Mar 3rd and are being held in Seefeld, Austria. A strong US squad, especially the women, are hopeful for a number of finishes in the medals. The Midwest is well respresented with Jessie Diggins, Rosie Frankowski, Kevin Bolger, Kyle Bratrud, and Adam Martin. There are qualifying races on Wednesday, then the first official races of the championships are freestyle sprints events on Thursday, with heats broadcast live starting at 7:30 am CST on Olympic Channel and NBC Sports Gold.
Related:
World Championships Schedule, Results
Woodland Loppet Coverage
February 17, 2019
A great example of one of many small organization fun races around the Midwest, the Woodland Loppet was held on Sunday morning in Elk River. The races featured expertly groomed, natural snow in great condition with temperatures in the mid 20s. Paul Olson received some minor consolation after breaking two poles during last weekend's Vasaloppet, taking victory today over Erik Hendrickson, Matt Zak coming in third. Brandy Stewart was the best of the womens field with Laura Cattaneo second and Cheryl Dubuois third. Josh Doebbert and Angie Robinson took the 10K titles, Robinson finishing second overall as well! Results and photos posted.
Minnesota Finlandia Coverage
February 16, 2019
Crisp temperatures with excellent course conditions Saturday morning for the Minnesota Finlandia races in Bemidji. Murray Carter won the big axe in the 50K freestyle, beating out Zach Nelson by 40 seconds in a close battle. Jenna Ruzich was the womens 50K champ. In the 25K freestyle, Craig Cardinal skated away with the title, Susanne Hill topped the women's field. Classic 25K titles went to Owen Baird and Kerrie Berg. Pursuit winners were Nick Youso and Anna Dehler. Results posted, along with photos from John Arenz, David Harrington and Monte Draper.
Related:
Tower Ridge 10K Results
World Cup Cogne Freestyle Sprints
February 16, 2019
Less than a week before the start of the World Championships and Jessie Diggins appears to be hitting top form just in time, on Saturday winning the women's freestyle sprint race! The US placed six women in the heats. Simi Hamilton made it to the mens final, just missing the podium in 4th. Racing continues Saturday with classic distance races.
Related:
Results: Freestyle Sprints
Rice Lake Birkie Shuttle
February 12, 2019
As an alternative to staying in Hayward, Rice Lake is offering a free Birkie shuttle bus for those staying in Rice Lake area hotels. Review the participating lodging and sign up for the bus.
Vasaloppet USA Coverage
February 9, 2019
Crisp temperatures were offset by a perfect race deck for the Vasaloppet USA ski races Saturday morning in Mora. Matt Liebsch dropped friend and training partner (and new dad!) Brian Gregg on the final lap of the 58K freestyle to ski home alone for his 10th Vasaloppet title! Felicia Gesior skied to the fastest women's time with nearly a 10 minute margin of victory. Nathan Porath collected another Vasaloppet 35K title, pulling away from the lead trio to finish solo. Mary Beth Tuttle continued the theme of repeat champions, taking the women's 35K skate race. Andrew Tilman won his first 42K Vasaloppet title, with Josie Nelson picking up another overall in her classic collection. Full results linked in, photos coming later tonight.
Related:
Pre-Birkie Results
Big Island and Back Results
Turtle River Pursuit Classic Results
Ironwood Skiers Selected as Inga and Warriors for Birkie 2019
February 7, 2019
The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation has announced the selection of the trio of cross-country skiers who will depict two Birkebeiner Warriors and Inga, the mother of baby Prince Haakon. William Andresen (Ironwood, MI), Carolyn Andresen Warren (Ironwood, MI), and David Andresen (Ironwood, MI) will portray Torstein, Skjervald, and Inga, respectively.
Related:
Kikkan Randall to Lead Fast and Female Champ Chat at Birkie 2019
World Cup Lahti Weekend Series
February 7, 2019
A sprint weekend on the World Cup circuit as skiers will participate in freestyle sprints Saturday and classic team sprints on Sunday, at the historic Lahti venue in Finland. Sprint heats Saturday start at 6:30 am CST, and same time on Sunday for the team sprints. Some of the US team will be skipping the races, electing to continue their preparation for the World Championships in roughly 10 days (Note: There will be no coverage on NBC Snowpass or Olympic channel this weekend.)
Related:
NBC Sports Gold Snowpass
World Cup Lahti Website
City of Lakes Loppet Freestyle Coverage
February 3, 2019
Warm weather overnight forced organizers to retract events to the snowmaking loop at Theodore Wirth for the City of Lakes Loppet freestyle races on Sunday morning. Brian Gregg completed the weekend sweep with a decisive victory in the men's marathon (three lap, 20K) event. Andrew Brown outsprinted Joel LaFrance to fill out the podium. Felicia Gesior also collected her second victory in as many days with teammate Hannah Cole second and Marit Sonnesyn taking third. In the shorter Puoli race (15K), winners were Jack Wenz and Susanne Hill. Results linked in, photos posted.
Related:
Lumberjack Jaunt Results
City of Lakes Loppet Classic Coverage
February 2, 2019
Racing for the first time from the lakes back to Theodore Wirth, the City of Lakes Loppet provided plenty of adventure for the classic marathon on Saturday. After a week of extreme cold, the weather couldn't be more perfect for the race as temperatures started in the mid teens and rose to the upper 20s with no wind and bright sunshine. Brian Gregg eased away from Nick Power to solo in for the men's 37K classic marathon title, with Andrew Brown taking third. Felicia Gesior cruised to the women's victory with BSF teammate Hannah Cole second, Vivian Hett scoring third. In the 21K Pouli classic, John Hallett and Maria Hauer captured the titles. Results linked in, photos from the marathon race are up.
Related:
Moraloppet Results
Mt. Ashwabay Summit Ski Race Coverage
Biathlon: Beckrich Leads US at Youth/Junior Worlds
January 28, 2019
Minnesota high school Nordic skiing champion Garrett Beckrich was the top American finisher over the first two days of individual races at the 2019 IBU Youth/Junior World Championships in Osrblie, Slovakia.
Loppet Plans to Run Point to Point
January 28, 2019
Organizers for the City of Lakes Loppet Festival announced on Monday that with the new snowfall, they plan to run the race from it's new start on Lake Bde Maka Ska and race back to finish at the Trailhead. Exact course details are forthcoming and skiers are being asked to limit skiing to the snowmaking loops as they pack and set the natural snow.
Related:
Racing Outlook
World Cup Ulricehamn: Relays
January 27, 2019
Four person relays were the featured event with huge crowds lining the World Cup course at Ulricehamn, Sweden Sunday. Norway dominated the women's race with Therese Johaug spotting the team a big lead on the second leg. Sweden takes second in a tight duel with Finland. The US ladies were sixth. Russia crushed the men's relay field, as team II took the victory with team I right behind, Norway men taking third. US mens squad finished 9th.
Related:
Results: Relays
Nordic Spirit Results
January 26, 2019
Cold morning temperatures delayed the start of the Nordic Spirit races in Duluth on Saturday, as the thermometer struggled to rise above zero. Andrew Tilman won the mens 26K title in a sprint finish over Isaac Wieber with Jake Richards third. Sarah Grenberg was the top female.
Related:
Iola Norseman Challenge Results
World Cup Ulricehamn: Freestyle
January 26, 2019
Some exciting racing in Sweden on Saturday morning for the women's 10K and men's 15K freestyle races in Ulricehamn. Jessie Diggins cranked out one of her best results of the season, narrowly missing the podium and finishing 4th. Norway's Therese Johaug won once again, but a surprisingly Astrid Jacobsen, Norway, took second with Sweden's Ebba Anderson collecting third. Sadie Bjornsen also skied to a top 20 finish in 15th. The mens race saw veteran Maurice Manificat, France, taking the victory with Norwegians Simen Krueger and Didrik Toenseth completing the podium. Scott Patterson had the best result for the US men's field, taking 35th.
Related:
Results: 10K, 15K Freestyle
US Ski Team: Diggins Narrowly Misses Podium in Ulricehamn 10k
Borah Epic Kicks Off 7th Year
January 25, 2019
The Borah Epic has quickly become one of the premiere Midwest MTB races, and for the 2019 edition they've got some changes planned. One of the biggest changes is the direction -- the Full and Half Epic courses have been flipped and will now be finishing in Cable. The Full Epic will start at Hatchery Creek near Hayward and the Half Epic will start at Hwy OO.
WJC/U23 Championships Recap Jan 20-23
January 24, 2019
The World Junior and U23 Championships are underway in Lahti, Finland, with a number of Midwest skiers competing. Caroline Brisbois provides a breakdown on the first few days of racing which included classic sprints and freestyle distance races.
US Ski Team: Cross Country World Championship Team Announced
January 22, 2019
U.S. Ski & Snowboard has named 18 athletes to the U.S. Cross Country Team that will compete in the 2019 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships next month in Seefeld, Austria. A number of Midwest skiers earned a spot on the squad including Jessie Diggins,Rosie Frankowski, Kevin Bolger, Kyle Bratrud, and Adam Martin!
Loppet Loppet Results
January 19, 2019
Over 130 skiers took to man-made snowmaking loop at Lapham Peak on Saturday for the annual Lapham Loppet race. Tristan Schocten won the men's 10.5K freestyle race with Matthew Dugan second, Danny Sonnentag third. Teenager Avery Tolbert took the women's division followed by Ella Rienemann and Shelbey Suhr. Classic champions were Ethan Blischke and Kim Hughes.
Related:
Hinder Binder Results
Three Rivers Rennet Coverage
January 19, 2019
Bright sunshine did little to offset the bone chilling temperatures for the Three Rivers Rennet 22K races on Saturday morning at Hyland. The men's freestyle race quickly developed into a two horse show with Brian Gregg and Matt Liebsch setting the pace. The pair stuck together throughout, including a blistering fourth lap, taking it down to a sprint finish, where Liebsch appears to have dove for the line - and was awarded the victory over Gregg. Thomas Kendrick wrapped up the mens podium. Maggie Pierson and Jenna Ruzich had a close battle for much of the race with Pierson eventually pulling ahead on the final lap for the win, Ruzich second, with Melissa Berman taking third. Andrew Tilman and Marian Delaney collected the classic titles. In the 10K races held in slightly more balmy weather, Jonathan Moreno and Danielle Ungurian topped the freestyle fields, Gene Kay and Emily Borderson won the classic races. Results linked in, photos are up.
Big Island and Back Update
January 13, 2019
Big Island and Back event is reporting good ice conditions for the upcoming races on Feb 9th. In addition to the ski races and snowshoe races, they've added fat bike races!
Related:
Racing Outlook
Seeley Hills Classic Coverage
January 12, 2019
Over 400 skiers hit the trails from the Birkie start area on Saturday morning for the Seeley Hills Classic races. Brian Gregg and Matt Liebsch forwent kick wax to double pole the entire 30K course, with Gregg winning by a little over two minutes, Liebsch second and Andy Brown finishing third as the first strider. Vivian Hett captured the women's classic crown with older sister Erica Wagner second and Bonnie Weiskopf third. In the 15K, one lap, race, McEwan Rodefeld took the victory with Rose Doda topping the women's field. Results linked in, along with a number of photosets.
SISU Ski Fest Results
January 12, 2019
In perfect conditions Saturday morning at the SISU Ski Fest, a number of races came down to close finishes. In the 31K freestyle, Adam Swank beat out Joel LaFrance by 2 seconds for the victory with Olympian John Bauer third just 3 seconds back. The womens division came down to a photo finish with Marit Sonnesyn getting nod over Kristen Monahan. Mary Beth Tuttle was third. Hunter Dercks won the 31K classic race with Delaney FitzPatrick beating Kate Kellis by a single second for the women's title. In the 15K races, Andy Liebner and Anna Kubek were the champions of freestyle, while David Andresen won the 15K classic with Nina Chosy the top woman.
Related:
Press Release: SISU '19: Record Turnout!
US Nationals: Freestyle Sprints Recap
January 8, 2019
US Nationals concluded on Tuesday with freestyle sprint races at Craftsbury, VT. Ben Saxton scored his second US Nationals sprint title in a tight race with Logan Hanneman, with Zak Ketterson finishing 6th. Julia Kern won the women's title, Alayna Sonnesyn the top Midwest skier making it to the semi-finals. Mary Kozloski as a full recap on the races and highlights all the Midwest skiers that made their way onto the international competition teams! Plus photos from Linda Kerker.
US Nationals: Freestyle Distance Recap
January 6, 2019
Another snowy day at US Nationals as athletes competed in the freestyle distance events on Sunday. Midwest skiers made the podium again, with Rosie Frankowski and Kyle Bratrud finishing in second place in their senior distance races. The Midwest had a very strong day and Mary Kozloski has the complete recap, and checkout photos from Linda Kerker and Jackie Schneider.
Pre-Loppet Coverage
January 6, 2019
Fast conditions Sunday morning for the Pre-Loppet ski races at Theodore Wirth. In the men's 17K race, a lead pack of four went down to the finish with Matt Liebsch pulling away for the victory, Alex Reich taking second and Joel LaFrance claiming the final podium spot. Caroline Brisbois led out the women's field, taking the victory by over two minutes. Daisy Richmond and Stephanie Balas finished second and third. The fat bike race turned into a two-man duel between Steve Marshall and Joel LaFrance (fresh off his ski race), with LaFrance finessing his way to the win in the final kilometers of the race. Tom Puzak was third. Pam Nielsen won the women's division by over five minutes with Risa Hustad and Laura Bednarski earning second and third places. Results linked in, along with photos from the ski race (partial) and fat bike race (full).
Tour de Ski: Stage 7 Freestyle Hillclimb
January 6, 2019
The Tour de Ski series wrapped up Sunday with the epic hillclimb event at Val di Fiemme, Italy. Norway's Ingvild Oestberg delivered a stellar finish to take the stage and overall title. Natalia Nepryaeva, Russia, held off a hard charging Krista Parmakoski, Finland, to round out the podium. Jessie Diggins finished 6th. In the mens race, Johannes Klaebo, Norway, was pressed by Russian Sergey Ustiugov but crossed the line in first to take the overall Tour de Ski title. Norway's Simen Krueger finished strong, moving onto the podium in third. American Ben Lustgarten completed the series in 42nd.
Related:
Fischer: Ostberg and Klaebo win the Tour de Ski
Results: Stage 7 Freestyle Hillclimb
US Ski Team: Diggins Digs Deep to Finish Sixth in Tour de Ski
First Chance Race Coverage
January 5, 2019
The Vasaloppet crew celebrated the first weekend of racing in January on Saturday morning with the First Chance Race. Over 100 skiers turned out, racing in 5K and 15K divisions. Matt Liebsch peeled off the front of the 15K field to solo in for the victory, Andy Schakel the best of the rest with Zach Nelson third. Lindsey Kastelle took the women's title, with Caitlin O'Donnell second followed closely by Maria Schilling. In the 5K race, winners were Nathaniel Johnson and Alicia Nelson. Results linked in, along with photosets.
Related:
River View Loppet Results
Tour de Ski: Stage 6 Classic Distance
January 5, 2019
The Tour de Ski moved to Italy for the final stages this weekend, beginning with classic distance races on Saturday. Norway's duo of Ingvild Oestberg and Johannes Klaebo showed why they are leading overall, both taking victories in strong fashion. Russians again filled out the podium as Natalia Nepryaeva and Anastasia Sedova went 2-3 for the women's 10K and 3-6 places in the mens race, with only Italian Francesco De Fabiani breaking up the block taking second place in the 15K event. Jessie Diggins was 7th on the day, moving to sixth overall. Diggins is less than 60 seconds off the podium with the final event on Sunday being the torturous hill climb.
Related:
Results: Stage 6 Classic Distance
US Ski Team: Diggins Sixth in Tour de Ski With One Stage Remaining
US Nationals: Classic Sprints Recap
January 4, 2019
The second day of US Nationals in Craftsbury, VT, featured classic sprint events. Minnesota native Ben Saxton scored the US National title for the men, finishing second in the finals to Canadian Julien Locke. Zak Ketterson of NMU also reached the mens final. Alayna Sonnesyn was the top Midwest skier advancing to the semi-finals before exiting. World Cup veteran Ida Sargent took the womens title. Mary Kozloski has a full recap including some interviews, and there is a limited set of photos from Linda Kerker.
Related:
Photos and Results
US Ski Team: Sargent, Saxton Win U.S. Classic Sprint Titles
USBA Names International Teams
January 4, 2019
On the 27th of Dec through the 31st USBA held the team Trials for the US International teams at Soldier Hollow, Utah. A large number of Midwest skiers made the teams that will be competing internationally later this winter.
US Nationals: Classic Distance Recap
January 3, 2019
US Nationals fired up on Thursday with classic distance races out in Craftsbury, Vermont. The Midwest was well represented in the mens 15K as Kyle Bratrud added another national title to his resume, this time in classic technique, while Adam Martin finished second. Alayna Sonnesyn was the top Midwest representative in the women's 10K, taking 12th. In the junior divisions, podiums were earned by Mara McCollor (3rd FU20), Zak Ketterson (1st MU23) and Ian Torchia (3rd MU23). Mary Kozloski has a full recap including interviews with a number of Midwest skiers. And be sure to check out the great photos from Jackie Schneider and Linda Kerker.
Related:
US Ski Team: Bratrud, Patterson Win Classic Titles at L.L.Bean U.S Cross Country Championships
Photos and Results
Tour de Ski: Stage 5 Freestyle Pursuit
January 3, 2019
Markedly different conditions on Thursday for the Tour de Ski in Oberstdorf, Germany, as skiers experienced firm packed skate conditions for the pursuit races. Ingvild Oestberg, Norway, lead out the field and held off all challengers to take the women's 10K victory with Natalia Nepryaev, Russia, remaining in second place followed by Jessie Diggins, who moved up from fourth and posted one of the fastest times on the day. In the men's 15K pursuit, Johannes Klaebo, Norway, was quickly caught by Russian Sergey Ustiugov and the pair then skied together, taking the race down to a sprint finish which Klaebo easily won. Alexander Bolshunov, Russia, was third. With Diggins placement today, she moves up to third place in the overall Tour de Ski standings. Skiers have a rest day on Friday before the big wrap up this weekend, including the infamous hill climb, in Val di Fiemme, Italy.
Related:
Results: Stage 5 Freestyle Pursuit
US Ski Team: Diggins Climbs To Third Overall Through Five Tour de Ski Stages
Tour de Ski: Stage 4 Classic Distance
January 2, 2019
A tough day of racing for many athletes Wednesday at the Tour de Ski classic distance races in Oberstdorf, Germany, as fresh snowfall, at times heavy, played havoc with the kick waxing. Norway appeared to win the day on equipment/wax selection as Ingvild Oestberg won the women's 10K race in a tight finish over Russians Natalia Nepryaeva and Anastasia Sedova. Jessie Diggins fought through the difficult conditions to finish 11th, dropping back to 4th in the overall Tour de Ski standings. Norway's Emil Iversen took the men's 15K, besting Italy's Francesco De Fabiani and Sergey Ustiugov of Russia. Ben Lustgarten was the sole America male still in the series, finishing 57th today. Thursday will feature freestyle distance races with pursuit starts.
Related:
Results: Stage 4 Classic Distance
US Ski Team: Icing Skis Knock Diggins Out of Tour de Ski Lead
US Nationals Primer
January 1, 2019
US Nationals kicks off on Thursday in Craftsbury, Vermont! We've posted a brief primer the event including resources to help you track your favorite skiers.
Tour de Ski: Stage 3 Freestyle Sprints
January 1, 2019
A spectacular day of racing in Switzerland on Tuesday for stage 3 of the Tour de Ski as athletes competed on a technical freestyle sprint course. The US women continued to shine brightly on the world stage, with Jessie Diggins and Sophie Caldwell sprinting against each other for the final podium spots behind Swedish star Stina Nilsson with Caldwell getting second in an extremely close photo finish. And most incredible of all, Diggins takes over as the womens leader of the Tour de Ski! In the mens final, Norway's Johannes Klaebo dominated the event, with Italy's Federico Pellegrino taking second followed by Russian Sergey Ustiugov. The Tour de Ski now moves to Germany for mass start classic races on Wednesday morning (5 am and 7 am CST).
Related:
Results: Stage 3 Freestyle Sprints
US Ski Team: Caldwell, Diggins 2-3 In Val Mustair Sprint
Tour de Ski: Stage 2 Freestyle Distance
December 30, 2018
Racing again at Toblach, Italy, the Tour de Ski participants competed in 10K and 15K freestyle events on Sunday. Jessie Diggins skied to a 6th place finish in the womens 10K event, which earned her second place in the overall Tour de Ski standings. Russian Natalia Nepryaeva was the victor with Norway's Ingvild Oestberg just 0.3 seconds back followed by another Russian, Anastasia Sedova. In the mens 15K race, a very similar performance from the Russians as veteran Sergey Ustiugov takes the win, Norway's Simen Krueger second, and Alexander Bolshunov third. Simeon Hamilton was the top US male finisher at 55th place. Racing action picks up on Jan 1st in Val Mustair, Switzerland, with freestyle sprints.
Related:
Results: Stage 2 Freestyle Distance
US Ski Team: Diggins Moves Up To Second Overall In Tour de Ski
Double Pole Derby Coverage
December 29, 2018
Great conditions Saturday for the Double Pole Derby races at the Birkie Trailhead. Temperatures were in the low double digits and the fresh snow mixed with some man-made generated fast conditions. In the girls high school race, Emma Albrecht, Stillwater, stole the show, taking off from the start and soloing in for the victory. The high school boys race saw a battle between Eli Gore, Madison, Nick Niemi, Ironwood, with Gore eventually pulled ahead for the victory. In the afternoon citizen race, a lead pack of 6-8 skiers held for much of the race between Chris Hecker and Sam Olson broke away, Olson, taking the final sprint with high school star Eli Gore taking third. Hannah Bettendorf topped the women's field with Hanna Dahlberg second and Kelly Skillicorn collecting third. Results linked in, photos posted.
Related:
Double Pole Derby Invite Coverage (high school)
Tour de Ski: Stage 1 Freestyle Sprints
December 29, 2018
The massive Tour de Ski event kicked off on Saturday in Toblach, Italy with freestyle sprints. The US women had a stellar day, advancing Sadie Bjornsen, Jessie Diggins to the finals and Sophie Caldwell just getting edged out in the semis. Bjornsen was in contention in the final right up to the final straight away, but it was Diggins moving up to take third behind Sweden's Stina Nilsson and Ida Ingemarsdotter, 1-2. Kevin Bolger and Simi Hamilton qualified for the quarterfinals, Hamilton suffering an unfortunate fall to end his chances. Norway's Johannes Klaebo took the mens final with France's Richard Jouve and Lucas Chanavat rounding out the podium. The Tour continues on Sunday with freestyle distance races.
Related:
Results: Stage 1 Freestyle Sprints
US Ski Team: Diggins Third in Sprint to Open Tour de Ski
US Nationals Streaming Coverage
December 25, 2018
US Nationals begins Thursday, January 3rd, at Craftsbury Center in Vermont. All of the events will be streamed live, as well as available for replay, although the coverage is fee based this season. There are packages for a live event up to all events and replays.
Winter Warm Up Coverage
December 22, 2018
Surprisingly soft conditions Saturday morning for Winter Warm Up races at Elm Creek as a crowd of over 200 participated in the 10K and 5K freestyle races. In the 10K race, the mens field quickly developed into a lead back of four: Thomas O'Harra, Brian Gregg, Matt Liebsch and Jakob Ellingson. The pack held together until final lap when at the donut Brian Gregg pulled ahead to take the victory, O'Harra second, Liebsch third. Alayna Sonnesyn dominated the women's field, going solo for the win with Michaela Keller-Miller moving ahead of Margie Freed to wrap up second and third places. In the 5K race, the Kraftson family swept the titles with Adrik and Rana collecting the mens and womens titles. Results posted, photos are up now.
Related:
Madison JNQ Results
Loppet Trail Kids Race Series Starts Thursday
December 18, 2018
The Loppet Foundation Trail Kids race series starts this Thursday evening, Dec 20th at the new Trailhead building. The four race series features a different format each race -- the opening event is a skate race.
World Cup Davos: Freestyle Distance
December 16, 2018
Period 1 of the World Cup wrapped up on Sunday with freestyle distance races at Davos, Switzerland. Norway's Therese Johaug continued her unbeaten streak, taking the victory in front of teammate Ingvild Oestberg with Finland's Krista Parmakoski third. Jessie Diggins notched a top five finishing 5th and Rosie Brennan pulled out another career best in 6th.
Russian Evgenly Belov won the mens 15K with France's legend Maurice Magnificat second and Norway's Martin Sundby third. The best US mens performance was David Norris at 61st.
Related:
Results: Freestyle Distance
US Ski Team: Diggins Fifth, Brennan Posts Career-Best Sixth In Davos
Hoigaards Relays Coverage
December 15, 2018
Nice weather on Saturday morning as temperatures were in the 20s and the sun was out for the Hoigaards Relays at Elm Creek. Jason Dalebroux summarizes: Masters Men was a close one, with Matt Liebsch / Joel LaFrance edging out Paul Olson / Alex Reich by a few seconds. Masters Women was another close race, the youngsters Lisa Garretson / Emily Muelner edging out the "oldsters" Laura Cattaneo / Heather Cichanowski by a few seconds as well. Masters Mixed was highly competitive, with some stiff competition. Spencer Ware-Joncas / Daisy Richmond with the win, and they were not far behind the Men's podium finishers! Juniors raced on a shorter loop, Boys title taken by Joey Quick / Dan Lee. Girls narrowly won by the threesome of Zoe Camp / Ava Cole / Katy Scott. Mixed title went to another threesome of William Minnich / Kate Dwyer / Lily Richmond.
World Cup Davos: Freestyle Sprints
December 15, 2018
The World Cup traveled to Switzerland this weekend for racing action at Davos. Saturday featured freestyle sprints and results showcased many skiers returning to form. Sophie Caldwell had an incredible comeback day, qualifying first and taking all her heats, and eventually battling Sweden's Stina Nilsson for the women's title, finishing second overall! Stina's teammate Maja Dahlqvist was third. Jessie Diggins, Sadie Bjornsen, Ida Sargent and Rosie Brennan all qualified for the sprint heats as well! Simi Hamilton led the US men's squad, advancing to the men's semifinals before dropping out. Wisconsin native Kevin Bolger just missed the heats, qualifying 31st. Sunday's events are freestyle distance races.
Related:
Results: Freestyle Sprints
US Ski Team: Caldwell Second In Davos Sprint
Fischer: Nilsson and Klæbo win Davos free sprint
World Cup Davos Weekend Series
December 13, 2018
The World Cup moves to Switzerland this weekend for two events at the ski resort of Davos. Saturday will feature freestyle sprints, Sunday is 10K womens and 15K mens freestyle races. Live coverage on NBC Sports Gold (snowpass) and Olympic Channel website, with broadcast replays on Olympic Channel later in the day. Times: Saturday sprint heats at 6:30 am CST, Sunday womens 10K at 2:30 am, mens 15K at 4:30 am.
Related:
US Ski Team: 12 Americans Ready For Davos Sprint, Distance Weekend
Davos Nordic Website
World Cup Beitostølen: Relays
December 9, 2018
The first big relay race of the World Cup season resulted in a sweep by the Norwegians as they took both the women's and men's titles on Sunday in Beitostolen, Norway. Sadie Bjornsen provided some major excitement leading off for the US as she led or was in second place throughout her leg but Norway's Therese Johaug broke things open in the second leg and Norway never looked back in taking the victory, Russia second, Finland third. Jessie Diggins pulled out a 5th place finish for the US women's team. Erik Bjornsen also started the US squad off well in the men's relay, handing off in 4th place and just 17 seconds off the podium. Norway and Russia would battle for the overall led with Russia going much of the pacing before a sprint finish, won by Norway's Finn Haagen Krough. Norway's second relay team took third place.
Related:
Results: Relays
US Ski Team: U.S. Women Fifth In Beitostolen Relay
World Cup Beitostølen: Freestyle Distance
December 8, 2018
With fresh snow falling, World Cup skiers battled in out in women's 15K and men's 30K freestyle races on Saturday morning in Beitostolen, Norway. Once again, Norwegian Therese Johaug dominated the field, winning by over a minute in front of Sweden's Charolette Kalla with Ingvild Oestberg third. Jessie Diggins led the US squad in 8th with Sadie Bjornsen 13th and Rosie Brennan 15th. Likewise in the men's field, Norway's Sjur Roethe collected another victory with teammate Martin Sundby second, and Russian Andrey Melnichenko third. A tough day for the US mens squad as Scott Patterson posted the top time in 47th place.
Related:
Results: World Cup Beitostølen 15K, 30K Freestyle
US Ski Team: Diggins Eighth in Beitostolen 15k
Elm Creek Series Kicks Off
December 5, 2018
The citizen racing season kicked off Wednesday evening with the start of the Elm Creek series. Dennis Curran and high school star Libby Tuttle took the freestyle 5K races with Tuttle repeating again in the 5K classic and only bested overall by Ben Mullin.
World Cup Beitostølen Weekend Series
December 5, 2018
The World Cup stays in Norway this week for another pair of weekend races, this time in the village of Beitostølen. The format on Saturday is 15K womens and 30K mens individual freestyle races, and then Sunday is the popular relays races (two legs classic, two legs freestyle). Live streaming on NBC Sports GOld Snowpass as well as Olympic Channel broadcast is scheduled, times Saturday are womens 15K freestyle 2:30 am CST, mens 30K freestyle 5:15 am CST; Sunday womens relay at 3:30 am CST, mens relay 6:30 CST.
Related:
NBC Sports Gold Snowpass
World Cup Beitostølen Website
World Cup Lillehammer: Classic Pursuit
December 2, 2018
The three day World Cup series in Lillehammer, Norway, wrapped up Sunday with classic pursuit format races. Norway's Therese Johaug quickly overcame her two second deficit to Sweden's Charlotte Kalla and went on to take yet another victory. Sweden's Ebba Andersson moved up to second place with Norway's Ingvild Oestberg collected third. The US woman notched three in the top 15: Sadie Bjornsen 10th, Jessie Diggins 13th and Rosie Brennan 15th. Norway swept the men's podium as Didrik Toenseth and Sjur Roethe finished 1-2 in a close race with Emil Iversen third. Erik Bjornsen had the top performance for the US men in 32nd.
Related:
Results: Classic Pursuit
US Ski Team: Bjornsen's Lead U.S. In Lillehammer Triple
Fischer: Johaug and Tønseth win Lilllehammer Triple
World Cup Lillehammer: Freestyle Distance
December 1, 2018
Second day of competition at the Lillehammer World Cup stop, Saturday featuring interval start freestyle distance races. Norway's Therese Johaug won her second distance race of the World Cup season, taking the women's 10K just nine seconds ahead of rising Swedish star, Ebba Andersson. Veteran Swede Charlotte Kalla rounded out the women's podium. The US women had a strong showing with three skiers in the top 12: Sadie Bjornsen 9th, Rosie Brennan 11th, and Jessie Diggins 12th. Norway flooded the men's leaderboard placing six in the top 10 with Sjur Roethe first, Didrik Toenseth second and Russian Denis Spitsov third. Erik Bjornsen lead the way for the US men in 43rd place. Sunday will wrap up competition with an exciting classic pursuit format.
Related:
Results: Freestyle Distance
US Ski Team: Bjornsen Leads U.S Team as Brennan Posts Career-Best
World Cup Lillehammer: Freestyle Sprints
November 30, 2018
The three day World Cup series in Lillehammer, Norway, started Friday with freestyle sprint races on a rather warm, wet and dirty course. Sadie Bjornsen continued her strong season start, skiing smartly through the heats and moving up at the right moment to take third place and a podium spot in the women's final! Jessie Diggins and Rosie Brennan both qualified for the heats but were edged out in the quarterfinals. Simi Hamilton was the lone US mens representative in the sprint heats, dropping out in the quarterfinals. Saturday's events will be mass start freestyle distance races.
Related:
Results: Freestyle Sprints
US Ski Team: Bjornsen Earns First U.S. Podium In Lillehammer Sprint
World Cup Lillehammer Weekend Series
November 28, 2018
The World Cup ramps up this weekend with a three day event in Lillehammer, Norway. Friday are freestyle sprint races, Saturday freestyle individual start races, concluding Sunday with classic pursuit start races. A number of Midwest skiers will be competing including Ben Saxton, Kevin Bolger, Adam Martin and of course, Jessie Diggins. Live coverage will be available on the Olympic Channel and on NBC Sports Gold via their Snowpass subscription. Live race times (CST): Friday 5 am sprint heats; Saturday 3:30 am womens 10K skate, 5:15 am mens 15K skate; Sunday 3:15 am womens 10K classic pursuit, 4:45 am mens 15K classic pursuit.
Note: The Loppet Foundation will be hosting viewing parties at the Trailhead this weekend, including early Friday morning!
Related:
NBC Sports Gold Snowpass
World Cup Lillehammer Website
Biathlon: Live World Cup Coverage this Weekend
World Cup Ruka: Classic 10K, 15K
November 25, 2018
The World Cup opener in Ruka, Finland, wrapped up on Sunday with individual start classic races. Norway's Therese Johaug returned from her 18 month suspension and immediately resumed her position at the top of the podium, taking first in the women's 10K by 22 seconds over Sweden's Charlotte Kalla with Ebba Andersson, Sweden, third. Sadie Bjornsen led the way for the US taking 8th, Jessie Diggins was 14th. In the men's 15K, Alexander Bolshunov completed the weekend sweep in first, Emil Iversen, Norway, second and Sweden's Calle Halfvarsson third. Erik Bjornsen was the top American in the race, taking 31st place. The World Cup moves to Lillehammer, Norway, for racing action next weekend.
Related:
Results: Classic 10K, 15K
US Ski Team: Bjornsen Leads U.S. in Ruka Distance
Fischer: Therese Johaug wins first World Cup after her comeback
World Cup Ruka: Classic Sprints
November 24, 2018
The World Cup season got underway Saturday with classic sprint races in Ruka, Finland. The US squad advanced three women into the sprint heats: Sadie Bjornsen, Sophie Caldwell and Ida Sargent. Bjornsen made it into the semi-finals before dropping out. The womens race was a close one with Sweden's Stina Nilsson tripping herself in the final corner, allowing Russian Yulia Belorukova to take the win ahead of two other Swede contenders. Norwegian superstar Johannes Klaebo appeared to have miscalculated the finish as Russian Alexander Bolshuov pulled ahead at the line to take the victory, Klaebo second, and teammate Eirik Branssdal third. Sunday will feature interval start classic races.
Related:
Results: Classic Sprints
FIS Beitostoelen Weekend Races
November 18, 2018
A few members of the US Ski Team joined the action in one of the opening FIS race series of the season in Beitostoelen, Norway. Starting her 2018-19 campaign with a great results was Sadie Bjornsen who finished on the podium in third place Sunday in the womens 10K freestyle race. Scott Patterson was the top skier for the US, finishing 22nd in the mens 15K skate. The World Cup kicks off this coming weekend in Ruka, Finland.
Related:
Results: Beitostoelen
US Ski Team: Cross-Country Team Named for 2018-19 Season
November 13, 2018
A 16-member 2018-19 U.S. Cross Country Team was announced Tuesday by U.S. Ski & Snowboard, with a strong focus on the 2019 World Cross Country Championships. The team kicks off the 2018-19 FIS World Cup Cross Country season in Ruka, Finland, Nov. 24-25. The Midwest has strong representation with Jessie Diggins (A team), Kevin Bolger (B team) and Ian Torchia (D team).
Elm Creek Series Evolves for 2018-19
November 13, 2018
The Elm Creek series, this year under the direction of RJ Ochmann, has announced a number of changes designed to improve the race experience. Cumulative points series, an optional full series entry, and field size limits are all part of the updates to this venerable series.
Fall Rivet Run Coverage
November 11, 2018
Eve Graves reports: We had record numbers Sunday for the Rivet Run/Walk which is held at Pattison State Park and supports the Nordic trails at the location. Almost 150 were registered and 114 participated. With 4 inches of fresh fluffy snow and temperatures in the 20's participants navigated a new course again due to the flood damage this past summer. Alex Kasperek age 21 won the event with a time of 19:48 and Keri Jensen was the first female with a time of 25:12.
Related:
Photoset from Eve Graves:  Rivet Run Fall
Results: Rivet Run Fall
Mora Adds First Chance Race
November 8, 2018
Mora will harness their expanded snowmaking operations to host an opening ski race, First Chance Race, on Saturday, Jan 5th at the Vasaloppet Nordic Center. A ski expo is also planned.
Related:
Full Racing Calendar
Biathlon: Six Olympians Headline Opening World Cup Roster
November 6, 2018
Following the completion of the Rollerski Team Trials last week in Soldier Hollow, Utah, U.S. Biathlon has announced the roster for the opening IBU World Cup events in 2018. Midwest athletes make up a significant portion of the roster as veteran Leif Nordgren is joined by Paul Schommer for the opening races at the end of November, and then Deedra Irwin, Jake Brown, and 19 year old Vasek Cervenka will compete in the second Cup event in mid-December.
Up, Up and Away Rollerski Coverage
November 4, 2018
Madison area held their annual Up, Up and Away rollerski race on Saturday morning at Blue Mound State Park. Chris Pappathopoulos held off a field of tough field of juniors to take the classic 10K title, Jack Jones skated to the mens 10K freestyle victory. Mia Case won the womens 10K classic, with Anna Engel posting the womens fastest 10K skate time. The race was part of the new CXC Rollerski Cup which will conclude next weekend with two races at the Grinding Up Granite event. Results and photos posted.
Related:
CXC Rollerski Cup Series
Birkie Warriors Contest Opens
October 31, 2018
Each year the ABSF selects three skiers to portray the original Birkebeiner Warriors and Inga, mother of Prince Haakon. The trio serves as Birkie Ambassadors throughout event week and skis the 55K Birkebeiner classic from Cable to Hayward on traditional wooden skis and in full period costume. Submit your application today!
Biathlon: World Cup Coming to Soldier Hollow
October 29, 2018
The International Biathlon Union, Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation and U.S. Biathlon will partner to host the world's top biathletes at the BMW IBU World Cup Biathlon February 14-17 on the Olympic venue at Soldier Hollow, Utah. The event will showcase top athletes from over 30 nations in the final World Cup before the World Championships in Sweden. Plus details on TV and streaming coverage has been announced.
|
|
