The event format was different than in past years, with a 5k mass start run preceding a 6.5k classic rollerski. The running leg was held on the Mt. Ararat High School cross-country trails, a challenging, hilly course with variable footing – a true trail race. In the men's race, John Swain of Colby opened up a big lead in the run, but Briggs reeled him in on the rollerski leg to win by 11 seconds. Sylvan Ellefson of Bates was 3rd, 30 seconds back. Colby skier Sam Mathes had the fastest rollerski time for men and finished 4th overall. For women, Knowles trailed teammate Kirsten Gill by 23 seconds after the run, but skied the fastest rollerski leg of the day to earn a 51 second victory. Linnea Rooke of Colby finished 3rd, with another Bates skier, Natalie Ruppertsberger, in 4th.
Race photos are posted at www.bowdoinnordic.blogspot.com.
The Bowdoin Nordic Team would like to thank V2/Jenex and Patagonia for sponsoring the event and Mt. Ararat High School for allowing the use of their school grounds.
Complete results are available at http://www.nensa.net/news/news_more.php?id=2287
Source: www.NENSA.net
