Norris Paces Bobcat Skiers at Seawolf Invitational

Friday, February 10

Anchorage, AK

Montana State University

UAA-15/20K CL

Bobcat sophomore David Norris

2/10/2012 5:01:00 PM | Men's Skiing, Women's Skiing

By: Tom Schulz

Montana State sophomore David Norris completed, perhaps, the best week in Bobcat Nordic ski history, placing second in the 20-kilometer classic race at the University of Alaska-Seawolf Invitational, Friday afternoon.

Norris, who prepped at Lathrop High School in Anchorage, covered the course in 54:30.0, just five-seconds behind winner Rune Oedgaard of Colorado.

“David had a phenomenal week, as did all of our kids,” said MSU Nordic coach Grethe Hagensen. “I think what makes David special is his dedication to training and knowing what his body needs to succeed. He doesn't waste energy and he knows when to perform.”

The Bobcats competed in two invitationals during their week-long stint in Anchorage, with Norris winning the Seawolf freestyle and UAA classic titles, while finishing runner-up in the UAA freestyle and Seawolf classic events.

Also scoring points for MSU on Friday were Michael Schallinger, 14th, 57:08.5; and Sawyer Kesselheim, 15th, 57:09.4.

The Bobcat women's contingent was led in the 10-kilometer classic by Kate Backstrum, who finished 14th overall in 50:43.5. She was followed by Rachelle Kanady, 15th, 51:07.4; and Ase Carlson, 17th, 51:13.3.

Eliska Hajkova of Colorado won the women's crown in 47:56.9.

After five events, Utah sits atop the team standings with 561 points. The Utes are followed by CU 548, UAA 491, MSU 457, New Mexico 453, Denver 434 and Westminster 71.

The Bobcat Nordic teams will be off until Feb. 24-25 win it hosts the Rocky Mountain Intercollegiate Ski Association and NCAA West Regional championships at Bohart Ranch.

“We're peaking at the right time,” Hagensen said. “Our kids are excited to host the regional and the NCAA Championships. We want this to be a very special season.”

Other MSU Finishers: (Men's 20K Classic)- Tyler Reinking, 17th, 57:59.0; Pat Madden, 21st, 59:37.5. (Women's 10K Classic)- Cambria McDermott, 18th, 51:17.8; Casey Kutz, 19th, 51:26.5; Jessica Yeaton, 20th, 51:51.6.