NMU skiers dominate races at Al Quaal

ISHPEMING, Mich. — The Northern Michigan University Nordic skiing took the top four places in both the men’s and women’s classic races to wrap up competition at the NMU Open Sunday at Al Quaal.

NMU sophomores Adam Martin and Kristen Bourne won their respective races for the Wildcats.

Bourne crossed the finish line in the 10K classic clocking a time of 33:08.4 after the pursuit start. NMU junior Felicia Gesior finished second for NMU with a time of 33:26.7 followed by freshman Vivian Hett in third (33:36.2) and senior Jordyn Ross in fourth (33:43.0).

Martin won the men’s 15K classic with a time of 40:51.2 followed by freshman Ian Torchia who finished second just 2.2 seconds off of Martin’s time (40:53.4). Senior Kyle Bratrud crossed the line in third place clocking a time of 41:07.8 and sophomore Fredrik Schwencke was fourth at 42:31.5.

“The second day of racing went well, the trail held up well considering the warm weather thanks to the efforts of the groomers at the Al Quaal Ski Trails,” said NMU head coach Sten Fjeldheim. “The team skied well and it was good to see our freshman athletes challenge the upperclassmen. Freshman Ian Torchia showed he has what it takes to be competitive in NCAA skiing along with freshman Vivian Hett.”

The Wildcats return to action on Dec. 20-21 at the Michigan Tech JOQ meet in Houghton.

(Information/Photo Courtesy of NMU Athletics)