Photo by: Neil Hetherington
Bobcat Nordic Standout David Norris Qualifies for 2012 World Cup
12/3/2012 12:45:00 PM | Skiing
Montana State Nordic ski standout David Norris has qualified to represent the United States at the 2012 World Cup in Canmore, Alberta, Dec. 13-16.
Montana State Nordic ski standout David Norris has qualified to represent the United States at the 2012 World Cup in Canmore, Alberta, Dec. 13-16.
The combination of points from his seventh place showing in the skate sprint at West Yellowstone on Thursday, and his fourth place classic finish at Bohart Ranch, Sunday afternoon, propelled Norris to qualify for the World Cup.
“I couldn't have done it without the support of MSU and my coaches,” Norris said. “I was fortunate to have qualifying races near school so that I could focus on the races without falling behind in classes.”
On Sunday, Norris had a strong 15-kilometer race- pushing the pace early. A group of six forged out ahead of the rest of the pack until the finish, where Norris crossed in fourth place and the second American overall. Bobcat All-American Tyler Reinking also had a good performance in the classic, placing 27th overall, while Michael Schallinger and Pat Madden were 39th and 40th, respectively.
“"It's a big deal for college skiing; this says a lot for the NCAA circuit and MSU,” said Bobcat head Nordic coach Chad Andersen. “It is always good to see somebody like David succeed at this level simply because of his genuine love for the sport and the team."
Over the course of three races on the weekend, many Bobcat skiers had strong showings; including sophomore Sawyer Kesselheim, who skied as an independent due to his redshirt, to win the junior race.
In Thursday's skate sprint Anne Liotta finished third, while Isabella Smith and Jessica Yeaton placed 12th and 25th, respectively.
“It was a great day for the women,” Andersen said. “Especially with the little sprint experience they get while racing the collegiate circuit.”
On Saturday, Yeaton, who was a 2011 NCAA qualifier, placed ninth in the classic sprint. Smith finished 14th overall. In men's action, Norris placed 11th overall.
In women's action on Sunday, Yeaton once again led the Bobcat women placing 18th overall, followed by Smith 24th, Liotta 31st and Kate Backstrum 32nd. Liotta finished fourth overall in the junior division.
“It was a great opening weekend of racing for the team,” Andersen said. “The overall attitude is exciting. Every single member realizes they play a part in the success of the team as a whole. It's phenomenally supportive and positive out there.”
Despite strong weather conditions, Sunday's race at Bohart Ranch went off without a hitch.
“Volunteers pulled long hours in the rain and sleet to shovel snow on the bare patches of the course,” Andersen said. “A 3.3km loop was created for the mass start classic. It was truly incredible to see the community come together and get this race off. It really shows how much support we have in Bozeman.”
The Montana State ski team will open its 2013 Rocky Mountain Intercollegiate Ski Association (RMISA) schedule on Jan. 8 at the Colorado Invitational.
Wednesday, June 10
Thursday, November 12
Saturday, March 10
Thursday, March 08
