2018 US Cross Country Ski Championships

2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships

Jan. 3-8, 2018 Kincaid Park Anchorage, Alaska

2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships The race is on U.S. Nationals highlight country's best cross-country skiers By MELISSA DeVAUGHN n the trails of Anchorage’s Kincaid Park, Olympians have been made. OWorld Cup champions have been groomed. Countless hours of training and nail-biting racing has happened on these corduroy-covered trails. It’s a place where dreams happen. That’s why the 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships are not to be missed. This massive event, set for Jan. 3-8, 2018, pits some of the nation’s top skiers against one another, not only for bragging rights, but also for a potential berth on the U.S. Olympic Ski Team that will compete in PyeongChang, South Korea, just a few weeks later. The dream is real. Just ask Holly Brooks, who competed in the same event when it was held at Kincaid in 2010, and skied her way onto the podium – and the U.S. Ski Team. That accomplishment led her on to a stellar career that included two Olympics and a first-ever U.S. Ski Team World Cup relay FLYING POINT PHOTOGRAPHY victory. U23 Kelsey Phinney charges into the lead during the classic sprint race during the 2017 U.S. “Last time this event was here I was rac- Cross Country Ski Championships, held at Soldier Hollow, in Utah. ing, and I credit the hometown advantage with making the Olympics, and essentially changing the trajectory of my life,” said Brooks, who has had the opportunity to utter those same words, along with many thank-yous, to the countless volunteers and experts who put on the races. This year, Brooks, who retired from racing in 2016, is helping to run the Award Ceremonies with her husband, Rob Whitney, during the races. The 2018 U.S. Cross Country National Ski Championships – or “Nationals,” as most people call them, includes four days of racing spread over the course of the week. Plan your calendars carefully for race days, ConocoPhillips U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships which include two sprint races in classic and freestyle; as well as a longer mass start classic January 3-8, 2018 race and interval start freestyle race. Skiers ranging from their mid-teens to masters will Schedule of events: On the Web January 3 – Freestyle Interval Start U.S. Cross Country Ski Team website: be there, competing not only for a podium Race www.usskiteam.com here, but also potentially earning team spots January 5 – Freestyle Sprint Race www.usnationals2018.com for Junior Nationals in the spring, and even January 7 – Classic Mass Start Race www.anchoragenordicski.com competitions abroad. January 8 – Classic Sprint Race Kincaid is no stranger to putting on Nationals, either. Joey Caterinichio, Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage president and chairman of the U.S. Nationals event, See Page 4, Nationals

December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 13 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 3

2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships

Welcome to Alaska Anchorage awaits Dear Participants,

Dear Participants, Dear skiers and supporters, Dear Participants, elcomeWelcome to theto the 2018 2018 Nordic Nordic Nationals in lovely Anchorage,elcome to Kincaid Park! WNationalsAlaska. inF orlovely many, Anchorage, this competition will bring you a stepW closerAnchorage to is a winter city, Welcome to the 2018 NordicAlaska. Nationalsthe For 2018 inmany, lovely Winter Anchorage,this competitionOlympics. I commend the hard work andand greatwe know that fresh snow is a Alaska. For many, this competitionwill bring will you bring a step you closera step closerto the to2018 great excuse to get out and play. the 2018 Winter Olympics. I commendpersonal the hard sacrifice work and that great is required for athletic distinction and Winterexcellence. Olympics. I commend the hard Our skiers – from Junior Nordic personal sacrifice that is requiredwork andfor athleticgreat personal distinction sacrifice and that kids to Masters – are excited to excellence. is required for athletic distinction and share our trails with all of you. As you begin this week of competition, I offer my best wishes to all As you begin this week of competitionexcellence. , I offer my best wishes to all It will be great to watch North the participants, spectators, coaches,As youthe andbegin participants, supporters this week for of spectators,a competi - coaches, and supporters forAmerica’s a fastest skiers duke it out memorable and safe event.tion, May Ithe offermemorable spirit myof bestsportsmanship andwishes safe to beall event. theon May the spirit of sportsmanshipat the be2018 on U.S. Cross Country full display, as well as the skillsparticipants, of fulleach display,athlete spectators, that as has coaches,well qualified as andthe to skills of each athlete that has qualifiedSki Championships to in Anchorage, reach this spot. supporters for a memorable and safe before some of you compete at the event. Mayreach the this spirit spot of sportsmanship. XXIII Olympic Winter Games May you also enjoy some ofbe Alaska’ on full s magnificentdisplay, as well skiing as wonderlandthe skills of – each Kincaid athlete Park. that Known has quali for its- in South Korea or at the 2018 FIS spectacular grounds and asfied a convenient toMay reach yououtdoorthis spot.also recreation enjoy somelocale, this of venueAlaska’ parks ismagnificent the perfect skiingJunior/U23 wonderland World – ChampionshipsKincaid Park. Known for its choice for this distinguished event.Mayspectacular you also enjoy grounds some of Alaska’s and as magnificent a convenient skiing outdoor wonder- recreationin Switzerland. locale, this venue park is the perfect land – Kincaid Park. Known for its spectacular grounds and as a You have worked hard to prepare for these races, and I wish the Warm wishes to each of you as youchoice strive to for compete this distinguishedat your greatest level. event. convenient outdoor recreation locale, this venue is the perfect choice best of luck to each of you. And when the racing is done, please

Sincerely, for this distinguished event. take time to relax and enjoy our local hospitality. Anchorage is a WarmWarm wishes wishes to each toof youeach as youof youstrive as to you compete strive at yourto compete great- atgreat your city greatest with the level. best snow-covered trails on the planet. Enjoy est level. your time here. Sincerely, Warm wishes and ski fast, Sincerely, Bill Walker Governor

Bill Walker — Bill Walker — Ethan Berkowitz Governor Governor of Alaska Mayor of Anchorage

Nationals, continued from Page 3

helped bring the races to Kincaid, back-to-back, in ing up to the event,” she said. “Also, local coaches know 2009 and 2010. which waxes run well at Kincaid, and athletes have the “We are a well-oiled machine running this,” Ca- independence and autonomy to do whatever is best for terinichio said – even more so now that Kincaid has their preparation and recovery. snow-making equipment that it lacked eight years “Perhaps my favorite part of racing at home was ben- ago. “There are new, improved courses, and snow- efiting from friends, family, and athletes that I coached making, and Anchorage rocks as a strong Nordic coming out to cheer for me,” she added. “At high stakes community.” races you are physically and mentally prepared to enter Caterinichio, who used to be Nordic director for the pain cave, but when you have a big cheering squad it the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Association, said USSA somehow has the ability to help you find an additional likes to move the race locations around the country gear. The junior skiers that I coached at the time painted to keep it fair for athletes and allow for varying com- 5-foot tall ‘GO HOLLY’ letters that were staged at the petition venues. So, when the races come to Anchor- Holly Brooks top of the sledding hill all week. The support was amaz- age, she said it is a real advantage for local skiers. ing and gave me the extra boost that helped me make “There is a real home course advantage,” she said. “There’s less my first Olympic team.” travel so athletes can be rested, and staying at home vs. a hotel.” So, if you are skier, sports fan or just like to watch and appreciate Brooks said she is positive that competing at home in 2010 helped elite athletes at their best, come out to the 2018 U.S. Cross Country launch her success. Skiing, she said, is as much mental as physical, National Ski Championships and cheer them on. and when there are hordes of friends and family cheering you on, it “I think this is a really special Olympic cycle where Alaska stands helps you dig deep. to qualify more Alaskans for the Olympic Games than ever before,” “Home course advantage includes everything from not having to Brooks said. “If our skiers ski to their potential we could stand to travel over the holidays, sleeping in your own bed, eating your own send five to eight Alaskan skiers to represent our state and the U.S.A. food, and training on the courses in the months and weeks lead- on the big stage come February!” 4 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 14 • December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships Community effort The nation's best Dear U.S. Cross Country Ski Cham- e are thrilled to bring pionships Athletes, Wthe 2018 U.S. Cross s an athlete qualifying for the Country Ski Champion- AU.S. Cross Country Ski Champi- ships to Kincaid Park. Work- onships, you are one of the nation’s best ing together with the Nordic cross-country skiers. You’ve worked Skiing Association of An- hard to get to this point in your season, chorage, the Municipality of and you should be proud representing Anchorage, the United States your club and those who have helped Skiing Association, and our you get here. Because of their help and premier sponsor Cono- your own effort, you are ready to com- coPhillips, Anchorage will pete with the best in your sport. showcase America’s top ski- This elite event is hosted by one of ers. Alaskans will have the the world’s leading facilities and Nor- ability to watch skiers from dic communities. The Nordic Skiing the U.S. Ski Team, local, national elite and community-based Association of Anchorage has produced many successful events and is racers all coming together in one event. The 2018 U.S. Cross well prepared to host this important competition. This is great chance Country Nationals also will weigh in for the selection of ath- for you to do your very best skiing this winter. letes to Olympic berths representing the USA at the 2018 Olym- Use the U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships as a chance to show pics in PyeongChang, South Korea. your coaches, club program, and the U.S. Ski Team that you have what I would like to thank our many financial partners, local it takes to be the best in the world. Regardless of the outcome, you can sponsors and volunteers. Without the outpouring of our always feel great traveling home knowing that you gave your very best. community’s support, we would not be able to host this I’m excited to watch for your success. Take advantage of this great high-caliber event. Anchorage has an amazing infrastructure venue, dedicated organizing committee, and all those that helped you for Nordic skiing. Organizations such as the NSAA, Cross get here. Good luck! Country Alaska, our statewide elite racing clubs, host clubs, high school skiing, Junior Nordic, and the amazing coaches and volunteers help give us the inspiration to host these large — Tiger Shaw, President and CEO national races. Races such as the U.S. Cross Country Cham- U.S. Ski and Snowboard pionships help keep the circle of Nordic skiing alive and give our youth an atmosphere to thrive at all levels of skiing and to witness the pinnacle of U.S. racing. As a national and local Nordic leader, the opportunity to chair this event has given me the ability to give back to our community and the many people who have supported and inspired Nordic skiing in Alaska. Please join us Jan. 3-8, 2018, at Kincaid Park to cheer on our local athletes, the U.S. Ski team and our future Olympi- ans. Sincerely, 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships — Joey Caterinichio Chair, 2018 U.S. Nationals Produced by ALASKA ADVENTURE MEDIA / COAST MAGAZINE 9138 Arlon Street, Suite A3, #432, Anchorage, AK 99507 www.alaskaadventuremedia.com, (907) 677-2900 [email protected] PROJECT MANAGERS: Joey Caterinichio, Josh Niva, Melissa DeVaughn ON THE COVER: U.S. Olympic hopeful and Anchorage local Scott Patterson will compete in the 2018 ConocoPhillips U.S. Cross Country Championships this January at Kincaid. Photo courtesy APU Nordic Ski Center.

December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 15 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 5 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships A season to remember: As Kikkan Randall heads into her last season, all we can say is, ‘Thank you, Thank you, Kikkan Randall, for being an incredible athlete, role model and friend.’

By JOEY CATERINICHIO n the late 1990s, a little girl under the age of 12 with blond, curly hair would pass me as we Iscaled the Alyeska Mountain Run. As she ran her way through many races I would often think, who is this little girl and at such a young age, how was she this fast? NORDIC FOCUS PHOTOGRAPHY She never stopped. In the upcoming years, I witnessed her in multiple sports. As a longtime coach and organizer of many high-level competitions in Alaska, I had the pleasure of watching this little girl participate in multiple select teams from competitions such as the Arctic Winter Games to the Junior Nationals, showing amazing team spirit often blaring “I'm a Barbie Girl” in the team van, to qualifying for multiple World Junior teams, and going for gold as the Sprint Distance favorite at the Sochi Olympics. Flash forward, as a new mother, Kikkan Randall is now headed into her fifth Olympics. As an Alaska hometown favorite, the chances of her earning a medal in PyongChange are great. And we get one more season of this hometown hero. Kikkan Randall is Alaska’s and the nation’s cross country darling. She’s the “skier to watch” as she heads into her last season of Olympic racing. As this chapter of cross-country skiing will soon close, Alaska and the ski community thank Kikkan for her graciousness, community endeavors, results and her sprit. Kikkan,

See Page 23, Kikkan JEFF ELLIS At top, Kikkan Randall with the silver medal she won in the World Cup Sprint Final in the Czech Republic in Feb- ruary 2009. Above, Randall pauses for a photo op during the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, in 2014.

6 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 16 • December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com Proud Sponsor of Kikkan Randall with the US Ski Team in the upcoming Olympics in South Korea

Photo Credit: Jarek Jospera

For more than 48 years, our experienced and compassionate doctors have remained dedicated to providing bone, joint, and muscle care to keep athletes of all levels on the slopes. Anchorage Fracture & Orthopedic Clinic is trusted to deliver the highest level of sports medicine care, and our own Gregory Schumacher, M.D., is a US Ski and Snowboard Association Team Physician and Chief Physician for Nordic Skiing. To schedule an appointment, please call 907.563.3145. 3831 Piper Street, Suite S-220, Anchorage, AK 99508 | www.afoc.com

Tuesday, Dec. 26, 2017 12:15 p.m. Bib Pick Up, Sprint Finals Kincaid, Stadium 4 p.m. Pre-registration Closes Event Website 12:45-4 p.m. Sprint, Freestyle Finals Kincaid Park During event Flower Ceremonies Kincaid, Stadium 6:30 p.m. Coaches' Social Location TBA Saturday, Dec. 30, 2017 Noon-4 p.m. Race Office Open Kincaid Park, Chalet Wax Trailer & Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018 Wax Bunker Check in 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Race Office Open Kincaid Park, Chalet 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Official Training Kincaid Park Mass Start Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017 2 p.m. Registration Kincaid Park, Chalet 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Unofficial Training Kincaid Park Changes due Race Office Courses Marked Mass Start 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Race Office Open Race Office, 5 p.m. Team Captains Meeting Kincaid Park, Chalet Registration Kincaid Park, Chalet West Room Wax Trailer Check in Sunday, Jan. 7, 2018 Monday, Jan. 1, 2018 Race, Mass Start 20/30K 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Waxing Village Open Kincaid Park Mass Start 5/10K 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Unofficial Training Kincaid Park 6 a.m.-11 p.m. Waxing Village Open Kincaid Park Noon-3 p.m. Race Office Open Kincaid Park, Chalet 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Race Office Open Kincaid Park, Chalet Registration 8-11 a.m. Bib Pick Up Kincaid Park, Chalet Wax Trailer Check in Mass Start Kincaid, Stadium 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Mass Start Event Kincaid, Stadium Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2018 During event Flower Ceremonies Kincaid, Stadium 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Waxing Village Open Kincaid Park 2 p.m. Registration Changes due Kincaid Park, Chalet 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Race Office Open Kincaid Park, Chalet Classic Sprint Race Office 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Official Training Kincaid Park 4 p.m. Team Captains Meeting Kincaid Park, Chalet Individual West Room Distance Event 6 p.m. Banquet ConocoPhillips 2 p.m. Late Registration Closed Naming of WJ/U23/U18 Atrium Race changes due Race Office Podiums 5 p.m. Team Captains Meeting Kincaid Park, Chalet Coaches, officials, athletes only West Room Parent/Limited tickets Race Office, Chalet

Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2018 Race, Individual 10/15K Monday, Jan. 8, 2018 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Waxing Village Open Kincaid Park Race, Classic Sprint 8 a.m.-Noon Bib Pick Up Kincaid Park, Chalet 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Waxing Village Open Kincaid Park 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Individual Kincaid, Stadium 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Race Office Open Kincaid Park, Chalet Distance Event 8-11 a.m. Bib Pick Up Kincaid Park, Chalet During event Flower Ceremonies Kincaid, Stadium Qualifier 10-11:30 a.m. Sprint Classic Kincaid, Stadium Qualifier Thursday, Jan. 4, 2018 12:15 p.m. Bib Pick Up, Sprint Kincaid, Stadium 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Waxing Village Open Kincaid Park 12:45-4 p.m. Sprint, Classic Finals Kincaid, Stadium 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Race Office Open Kincaid Park, Chalet During event Flower Ceremonies Kincaid, Stadium 2 p.m. Registration Changes Due Race Office 5-10 p.m. Wax Trailer & Bunker Kincaid Park Freestyle Sprint Clean up & return 5 p.m. Team Captains Meeting Kincaid Park, Chalet West Room Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2018 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Clean up Kincaid Park Friday, Jan. 5, 2018 and Wax Trailer Return Race, Freestyle Sprint 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Waxing Village Open Kincaid Park PLEASE NOTE: Schedule subject to change, so please check for updates. Visit 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Race Office Open Kincaid Park, Chalet www.usnationals2018.com. 8-11 a.m. Bib Pick Up Kincaid Park, Chalet

10-11:30 a.m. Sprint, Freestyle Kincaid, Stadium

Qualifier

8 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 18 • December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com Race Sponsors

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December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 19 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 9 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships Fast & formidable Alaskan athletes aim high at U.S. Nationals 2018

laskan skiers compete annu- ally in the U.S. Cross Country ASki Championships, racing on the Upper Peninsula’s frosty roller- coaster trails, the oxygen-deprived Olympic course at Utah’s Soldier Hollow, and on New England’s mostly artificial snow. This year, Alaska’s skiers are back home at Kincaid Park for nationals. They’ve lined up at the start in this stadium countless times. They know the trails. They know where they’ve crashed, bonked, passed and excelled. APU elite skier Reese Hanneman, is looking forward to the familiar. “It really is such a cool feeling, to remember back racing so much here as a kid, and now so many years later, to try and ski much faster around these same loops,” he said. “It’s an honor to be able to race at home in U.S. Nationals.” Reese and his brother Logan Hanneman are just two of the many Alaska skiers to look for at these races. While the blue Alaska Pacific University (APU) race suits will be prominent at Kincaid, some well-known Alaska skiers might be missing. Four-time Olympian Kik- kan Randall, and fellow APU skiers Sadie Bjornsen, Erik Bjornsen, Rosie COURTESY TOM KELLY/USSA/ REESE HANNEMAN.COM Brennan, Chelsea Holmes, and Scott Reese Hanneman skis to victory during Nationals races at Soldier Hollow, Utah. He is among the Alas- Patterson, are overseas competing kans to watch for the 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships being held in Anchorage. in the early stages of the World Cup season. Their aim is to qualify for the His roster of senior Alaska skiers to watch include Reese, U.S. Olympic team on that European circuit. If they don’t, they’ll be Hanneman, Logan Hanneman, David Norris, Tyler Kornfield, Erik back in Alaska for nationals, which is another door to the Olym- Packer, Forest Mahlen, Thomas O’Hara, Rosie Frankowski and Becca pics in Pyeongchang, South Korea. If any spots still remain by New Rorabaugh. Many of these skiers competed together on Team AK at Year’s, the series at Kincaid Park is a last opportunity to prove up. Junior Nationals. APU head coach Erik Flora explained that the competition in Rorabaugh said she and her team are looking forward to Kincaid Alaska is the final week of racing in the U.S. for the Olympic qualifi- Park and Alaska offering some “good old-fashioned winter condi- cation process and for World Juniors. tions” and a chance to shine on the big stage. “For our APU elite team, this is an opportunity to represent the “We’ve had time to really cohere as a group and that’s made each United States at the Olympics,” the coach said. “This is a goal they of us stronger,” she said. “I think we’ve got an amazing cohort of ski- have spent the better part of 10 years preparing for and many thou- ers who will be in the mix for Olympic qualification this year.” sands of hours training.” APU’s Flora is optimistic about his athletes’ chances and advises

10 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 20 • December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships

Junior Worlds, explains Flora, “starts the road toward international racing and one day the Olympics.” Alaskan locals competing with their sights on Junior Worlds include Alaska Winter Stars (AWS) Juniors Molly Gellert, Gus Schumacher, Quincy Donley, Eli Her- manson and Luke Fritzel; APU Juniors Hunter Wonders, Canyon Tobin, Luke Jager, and Dawson Knopp; Alaska Nordic Racing Juniors Emma Nelson, Heidi Booher and Adrianna Proffitt; and FXC (Fairbanks) Juniors Ti Donaldson and Kendall Kramer. AWS skier Gellert scored enough points in last year’s nationals to make it to the Nordic Nations Champion- ships. She said the familiarity of Kincaid Park will be reassuring during the tough week of racing. “It’s super awesome that nationals are on home soil this year because the races will be on trails we spend countless hours training on,” she said. Add up all of these athletes and Alaska undoubtedly has a strong presence in this competition, from high school racers to college graduates. There will even be some local senior masters jumping in to see how they stack up against the younger field. The common de- nominator to this powerful bench of skiers, according to APU’s Hanneman, is Alaska’s support for the sport. “We have some of the best coaches in the country, lots of options for skiing most of the year, and a community that really gets excited about ski racing,” he COURTESY JAN BURON said. “A bunch of our junior clubs are really strong right Alaska Winter Stars skier Molly Gellert competes at the 2017 U.S. Nationals at Sol- now, and I think we are going to see even more Alas- dier Hollow, in Utah. Gellert is one of Alaska's top female skiers and will be compet- kans competing at a high level.” ing for a spot in Junior Nationals as well as Junior Worlds. Hanneman should know – he’s stood on more than one podium at U.S. nationals, the top step as well. Look not to underestimate the power of the hometown crowd. for him and all of the other Alaska skiers during this exciting week of “This is the biggest competition we will have this year in the racing. Don’t forget your cowbell. United States,” he said. “It will be great to see our community out on the trails in January to cheer a tremendous event.” Olympic slots aren’t the only incentive during this week of racing. For college skiers in the Rocky Mountain division, the first two skate races are NCAA qualifiers. Alaskans Tracen Knopp, Sadie Fox and Jenna DiFolco will be skiing for the Univer- sity of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) Seawolves, and Anna Darnell, Sarissa Lammers, Max Donaldson, Seiji Takagi and Logan Mowry will be skiing for the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) Nanooks. Further afield, but also returning home to compete with the Montana State team, is Emma Tarbath. Other collegiate Alaskans retuning to race are Dartmouth skiers Lydia Blanchet and Taryn Hunt-Smith, Williams’ skiers Jack Consenstein and Andrew Hull, and Middle- bury skier Jacob Volz. Along with Olympic and NCAA goals, younger skiers are focused on qualifying for the World Junior Championships in Goms, Switzerland, and the U18 Nordic Nations Championships in Vuokatti, COURTESY CODY PRIEST Finland. Getting a spot on either of these Alaska Nordic Racing and University of Alaska Anchorage skier Tracen Knopp will be competing teams is based on age and points accrued at the 2017 U.S. Nationals at Soldier Hollow, in Utah. He is among more than a dozen college-level in all four nationals races. skiers from Alaska in the mix for top honors.

December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 21 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 11 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships

2018 Junior Mass Start 5k Course January 7th - Kincaid Park - Anchorage, AK

m k

Welcome 0 . 1 - -

0 to the Races! .

2 he U.S. Cross Country TChampionships are the pre- START FINISH mier U.S. event of the season. NSAA Bunker t

These events determine all U.S. Lo

m ng u i i ark - d P a t National Champions. Competi- Chalet S

Parking Lot 3 . 5 0 tors include top club racers, for- .0 Bia k thlon k R m m ange eign skiers and members of the - U.S. Ski Team. This event is open to all USSA and FIS competitors. The U.S. Cross Country Cham-

pionships is a part of the Super- - Tour; double SuperTour points 4.0 km are awarded during the championships. SuperTour races are Junior Mass Start Profile Legend used in selection for elite teams 300 2018 5k Juniors ) t Technical Data ( f 250

such as World Championships, n Road - Gravel

i o Actual Distance: 5.458 km t a v 200 Major Ski Trails HD: 49 l e

E MC: 35 ± Continental Cup and the Olym- Contours (5m) TC: 165 pics. 150 Road - Paved 0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000 3,500 4,000 4,500 5,000 5,500 Structures Distance (m) Mapping provided by:

Qualifying Races 2018 Men's & Women's Sprint Courses In addition to sizzling senior January 5th & 8th - Kincaid Park - Anchorage, AK athletes tearing up the course, the U.S. Cross Country Cham- pionships is also an avenue for young seniors and top junior athletes to qualify and represent Team USA for elite international racing teams. Look for athletes to qualify for:

• The World Junior Champion- Timing NSAA ships Trials: This team is made Finish Bunker m ot u i g L d in a rk t Pa up from the nation’s top juniors. S er ow Athletes will be selected from L the U.S. Cross Country Cham- Chalet Chalet Parking Lot

pionships. The World Junior Start Championship Team will com-

B iathl pete at the Junior World Cham- on Ra Annex nge pionships in Goms-Kandersteg, *Note: Women's and Men's Sprint Courses follow the same route for a majority of the race, as shown by overlapping lines.

Switzerland, Jan. 27-Feb. 2, 2018. Men's Sprint Profile Legend Men's Sprint Technical Data ) • The U-23s: This is an interna- t 240 Women's Sprint

( f Actual Distance (Men): 1.606 km

n Actual Distance (Women): 1.476 km o 220 Road - Gravel i tional race series in conjunction t HD: 24 v a 200 Major Ski Trails ± e MC: 24

E l Road - Paved with the World Juniors hosting 180 TC: 43 (W) & 47 (M) Structures 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1,000 1,100 1,200 1,300 1,400 1,500 1,600 Contours (1m) young senior athletes below the Distance (m) Mapping provided by: age of 23. • The Junior Scandinavian Championships: The Nordic tion will be done through the Programs, nomination criteria Championships, please visit: Junior Championships is open to freestyle sprint and the classic for the U.S. disabled criteria www.usnationals2018.com. U16 and U18 competitors only 5/10 kilometer events at the U.S. and elite traveling teams, please and is the premier international Cross Country Championship. visit: www.ussa.org. competition for competitors 17 For more information on For more information about Rules of Engagement years and younger. Team selec- elite National Cross Country the 2018 U.S. Cross Country Welcome to Kincaid Park!

12 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 22 • December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships

2018 5km Hairpin Course will have designated areas to January 3rd & 7th - Kincaid Park - Anchorage, AK watch and enjoy the races. Warm-up and wax testing areas are open to racers and

START coaches only. Feel free to ski the

m k other ski trails of the Kincaid NSAA 0 - . Bunker 5 Park system. No ski passes are

m ot FINISH u L i g d kin a r t Pa required. If you are a skiing and S Chalet Parking Lot have not paid an entry fee, a Biath lon R

ange donation to the NSAA trail fund - m would be appreciated. You can k

0 . 1 do this online at www.anchoragenordicski.com.

m -

k No Dogs Allowed

. 3 Cross-country skiing com- 4

0 -

k petitions and dogs don’t mix. m

Please leave the dogs at home. - No dogs will be allowed on the 2. 0 km venue including the stadium, ski

5km Profile Legend trails, parking lots, and build- 300 Technical Data

) 2018 5k Hairpin t ings (service dogs exempted). ( f 250 Actual Distance: 5.274 km n Road - Gravel i o

t HD: 49 a v 200 Major Ski Trails MC: 53 This includes leashed dogs. l e ± E Contours (5m) TC: 204 150 Road - Paved 0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000 3,500 4,000 4,500 5,000 Structures Distance (m) Mapping provided by: Stadium Access All access to the stadium floor 2018 7.5km Hairpin Course will be via the bridge from the January 3rd & 7th - Kincaid Park - Anchorage, AK Chalet parking lot to “Spectator 1. 0

km Ridge.” Spectator ridge is aptly - - named as racers will be passing 2.0 km by this area for every race. Spectator routes are designated for each competition day.

3. 0 k Walking, and sometimes skiing, m NSAA - Bunker will be allowed to access these

m t u o i L d ing a k t ar vantage points. Great viewing S P FINISH Chalet Parking Lot START spots are on the ridge above B iathlo R n ange the timing building and by the

- stadium parking lot. The sta-

7.0 km dium floor will not be open for - spectators. 4.0 km - Course controllers and stew- km 5.0 ards will be posted at locations throughout the stadium and

race trails. Please follow their -

6. directions as it is their job to en- 0 km sure the competition can occur 7.5km Profile Legend 300 unimpeded. Remember, they are Hairpin Course Technical Data ) t

( f 250 Actual Distance: 7.713 km n Road - Gravel volunteers out there to enjoy the i o t HD: 49 a

v 200 Major Ski Trails

l e MC: 53 ± E Contours (5m) TC: 263 competition and to meet people 150 Road - Paved 0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000 3,500 4,000 4,500 5,000 5,500 6,000 6,500 7,000 7,500 Structures from across the country. Distance (m) Mapping provided by: Information will be available at the race office in the Chalet We’re glad you traveled near and challenging and should be fun Competition Days and kiosk in the lower parking far to take in the 2018 U.S. Cross for spectators as well. In order All race trails are closed to lot. Startlists, results, course Country Ski Championships. to keep it fair for competitors spectators, whether skiing or on maps, and spectator information We want this to be a spirited and fun for spectators, we ask foot traffic. Only racers, coaches will be available at this location. and fair event for all patici- participants to be mindful of and officials will be permitted pants. The race courses are the rules. on the race course. Spectators Continued, next page

December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 23 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 13 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships Stadium race layouts 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships

Parking of Cook Inlet, the Alaska Range, Mount The Chalet parking lot will be limited to Susitna, the Chugach Mountains and of athletes and officials, and select volunteers. course Mount McKinley and Mount For- Spectator and volunteer parking will be aker. available in the Stadium parking lot (behind the score board) and the overflow lots. If you are carpooling, you can drop off passengers Moose or gear at the chalet before parking in one of A resident population of moose roams the outer lots. Kincaid Park. It’s the middle of winter and the moose are tired and generally interested only in survival, however they are unpre- Non-Competition Days dictable. Please give them a wide berth. All trails are open to all skiers. While the You may have to stop and wait or even turn race trails offer exciting opportunities to around and find another route. On race day test your skiing skills, Kincaid Park has 60 the course volunteers will do everything kilometers of groomed ski trails. possible to deal with the ungulates but they Each trail is unique and offer great views can be stubborn and ornery.

14 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 24 • December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships Stadium race layouts 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships

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December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 25 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 15 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage: Sustaining trails, creating outdoor opportunities, in all seasons

laskans embrace winter more than any other place in Athe nation – sometimes enthu- siastically, sometimes reluctantly. But limited daylight and cold temperatures aren’t negatives here. If snow is on the ground in Anchor- age, skiers are giddy and winter is a welcome wonderland. Anchorage is a deep and genuine Nordic skiing community, proud of its world-class trails, Olympic-level athletes, passion- ate skiers of all skill, fitness level and age, and special programs and events. That community is strengthened and sustained by an army of volunteers, donors and staff that fuel the Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage (NSAA). For more than 50 years, NSAA has been the focal point, if not the heart, of Nordic skiing here. It leads Junior Nordics, the largest youth learn-to-ski program in the nation with close to 700 kids skiing at three locations each day during winter. Since its launch in 1984, Junior Nordics has become a family tradition: Adults who were raised in the program decades ago COURTESY NORDIC SKIING ASSOCIATION OF ANCHORAGE now enroll their kids, who dis- The Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage not only grooms some 150 kilometers of trail, but it also cover their own passions for skiing hosts the largest youth learn-to-ski program in the nation, with close to 700 kids skiing at three locations and playing outside even when it’s each day during winter. cold. In addition, no other state has Alaska’s volume of middle school cross-country skiers, which numerous local businesses, city officials and corporate leaders. They NSAA supports through racing and skis in schools programs. rally around the organization in good and not-so-good snow sea- For skiers and nonskiers, fans of winter or summer alike, NSAA’s sons, and help NSAA bring America’s top Nordic skiers to Kincaid most important community role is keeper of Anchorage’s trail Park for events like U.S. Nationals. They have also supported NSAA’s system. NSAA maintains and sustains, expands and protects the An- annual Nordic programs and events, assisted with trail work, and chorage area’s 150 kilometers of trails – that spans from Eagle River donated time and energy to keeping Anchorage skiing with snow- to Kincaid Park to Hillside Ski Area. Last season, thousands of skiers making capabilities. logged more than 58,000 recreational hours on community trails, Support also comes from NSAA’s 3,000 members, many of which which were groomed 159 days. Runners, walkers and bikers also volunteer at more than 50 annual Nordic events and contribute benefit from NSAA’s year-round commitment to the trail system. nearly 20,000 volunteer hours each season. Almost 80 percent of That commitment to trails is one of the reasons why Anchor- event participants are 18 and younger, a testament to the multi- age is an attractive setting for national and world outdoor events, generational impact of Nordic skiing. NSAA staff and volunteers especially high-caliber winter races like the 2018 U.S. Cross Country orchestrate events like Ski Train, Ski 4 Kids, Alaska Ski For Women, Ski Championships. It’s also a reason why Anchorage, and Alaska, and the Tour of Anchorage. Providing youth access to Nordic skiing is now a breeding ground for a growing group of elite skiers who with equipment grants, school racing, coaching and other outdoor represent the state around the world, including in their charge for opportunities is also essential for NSAA, as it works to set a founda- Olympic medals. tion for a lifetime of healthy activities for youth. NSAA’s critical community work is backed by volunteers and Starting January 3, more than 400 of the country’s top skiers will

16 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 26 • December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com COURTESY NORDIC SKIING ASSOCIATION OF ANCHORAGE The Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage depends on its volunteers, like these from the 2010 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships. gather in Anchorage for the 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Champion- seasoned volunteers, will see the investment NSAA makes in bring- ships, bringing years of dedication and training to Anchorage’s top ing events like this to life and making Anchorage a special place to park and trail system. Nationals will also bring hundreds of specta- live, work, play and ski. tors from across the state and beyond, who, with event sponsors and

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December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 27 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 17 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships

Snowmaking at Kincaid Park: Creating magic tracks for Alaska’s, and America’s, skiers

lot of skiing stars will emerge from the 2018 Snowmaking success requires more than just the U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships at Kincaid right conditions. It actually begins months before APark in Anchorage, but one group of heroes will temperatures drop with repairs, preparation and certainly go unheralded and maybe even unnoticed troubleshooting of the fan guns and snow lances, altogether. But without the snowmaking capabilities cleaning screens, upgrading electronics and install- provided by the Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage ing work platforms to ensure that the equipment (NSAA) and its staff, volunteers and partners, skiing at performs optimally when snowmaking time arrives. nationals might not even happen. Water is also a key ingredient, and ironically, it's Recent ski seasons in Alaska have been marred by a limited resource at Kincaid, despite its location warm-and-wet winter weather, which has made occasional messes of near Cook Inlet. Two wells were drilled at Kincaid Park specifically Anchorage’s world-class trails and its Nordic programs, races large for snowmaking; but the wells currently produce only 150 gallons and small, training for elite racers and fun for recreational skiers. of water per minute. This is less than one-third of the equipment’s But when NSAA began snowmaking at Kincaid Park a few seasons designed capacity and well below the system’s most efficient power. ago, it provided a foundation for skiing in most winter conditions That said, last season 3.4 million gallons of water were used to make and instantly became a boon to the skiing community and Anchor- snow at Kincaid Park, an astounding amount that led to a constant age’s citizens who love their outdoor lifestyles. source of snow and very few race or event cancellations. Like waxers, timers, coaches and proud parents, snowmaking is Thanks to the snowmaking equipment and expertise from NSAA, now a regular aspect of successful races at Kincaid Park. The time- having piles of the awesome white stuff for U.S. Nationals is a given line to prepare Kincaid Park for skiing and racing – and especially – whether it’s natural, manmade or both. Making snow that lasts courses as technical as those set for nationals – begins as early as the entire season is the team’s goal and it requires valuable resources possible for NSAA’s operations crew. When the right combination straight from Anchorage’s Nordic community. That includes indi- of humid air and cool temperatures arrive, NSAA’s two fulltime vidual donations, membership dues and volunteer time dedicated to groomers and a handful of parttime staff and volunteers start mak- NSAA. Utilities is another critical resource, which is covered by the ing snow around the clock. The process might seem simple, but the Municipality of Anchorage. ability to achieve the right snow for high quality Nordic trails is The snowmaking system allows NSAA to lay down a firm first elaborate and carefully calculated. layer early in the season, creating an artificial base that adds durabil- As early as October, all eyes are glued on the thermostat and the ity while offering skiers an opportune start to the season that wasn’t hygrometer. When the right combination aligns, NSAA’s team runs always the case in the past. This base of manmade snow is a solid the equipment sometimes up to 24 hours a day for days, or even foundation for all skiers: recreational, youth and Olympics-bound weeks, at a time. When the new snow is made, it is moved by redi- competitors. With U.S. Nationals arriving in Anchorage, snowmak- recting strategically set fan guns and snow lances along the trails. As ing from NSAA should give everyone confidence that Kincaid Park the snow piles up, the operations crew spread it across the trails and will be the perfect venue for a special event and all of America’s star then the Pisten Bullys finish up with fresh comb and diagonal tracks. skiers.

18 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 28 • December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com COURTESY NORDIC SKIING ASSOCIATION OF ANCHORAGE The Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage's snowmaking equipment is a critical piece of keeping Kincaid a snowy skier's paradise.

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December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 29 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 19 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships Chelsea Holmes: Representing family, friends, fellow skiers and the state that makes us strong

BY CHELSEA HOLMES

he return of U.S. Nationals to Anchor- Tage is an opportunity for Alaska’s skiers to put their aspirations on the line. To showcase the powerful movement that our community has created – one that draws athletes from all over the world and routinely turns out athletes who not only compete against the best juniors, seniors and masters, but who are also positive contributing members to our community. Alaska skiing has an immense presence these days, but its essence has always been found in the Alaska I know. Long summer days chasing my sister across spongy moss, backpack slapping hap- hazardly against my back, and late-night skiing on lighted trails of a different kind were the unintend- ed foundation for an ambitious and scrappy young girl. Experiences like these bred an instinctive need to be in our beautiful outdoors and instilled a knowledge that hard work and perseverance will always be rewarded. But it is our local growing community engagement and infrastructure that cultivates those experiences into hard-fought successes. Now I spend my training year sweating alongside my peers and idols, in a cycle of hard work, focus COURTESY APU NORDIC SKI CENTER and what feels like the rare opportunity for recov- Chelsea Holmes, in front, is a Girdwood-raised and Alaska-based skier who races for ery. Sacrifices are made but even more is gained. Alaska Pacific University. Not only physical strength and fitness, but self-be- lief and an enduring camaraderie that is something ming from Junior Nordic, Alyeska Mighty-Mites, Alaska Nordic beyond friendship. It is the intangible element that can only be Racing, Alaska Winter Stars and APU Nordic Ski Center to the well- learned through experience and time in the right environment. attended high school teams, clubs and NCAA university programs. When you commit yourself to a shared dream alongside your We are fortunate to be home to an expansive network of community peers, you are committing to something larger than yourself. It is members and organizations such as the Nordic Skiing Association of an acknowledgement and agreement to reach farther and believe Anchorage, Cross Country Alaska, the Mat-Su Nordic Ski Club and more fully in yourself than you ever thought possible. And that’s the the Girdwood Nordic Ski Club, to name only a few. This community beauty of it. fabric is the foundation for athletes of every age and inspires us to The trickle-down effect as an athlete is that you seek inspiration pursue the highest level of skiing, from our young Hunter Wonders everywhere you look. It is in the five-year-old experts and the first- of APU fighting for a World Junior opportunity, the Hanneman time master skiers. Our tight-knit community is a bottomless well of brothers reaching for Olympic berth or Kikkan Randall and Sadie inspiration and support, from shared laughs in the backcountry to Bjornsen, chasing Olympic medals. the barely-perceptible-mittened wave as we whip by one another in We, as athletes, are tremendously appreciative of this community’s the speckled light of the Mize Loop during a late-winter ski. support. When you come out to cheer on your local athletes as they While our ski community has always been strong, it has grown at race heart and soul during U.S. Nationals at Kincaid Park, remember every level in strength and size. Our home, with its rising moun- that you are also an integral part of our community. tains, snowy winters and the distinctly Alaskan way of life, is per- Chelsea Holmes is a Girdwood-raised and Alaska-based skier who fectly conducive to our sport. races for Alaska Pacific University. Beginning at a young age the Alaska culture fosters its children through family engagement and our multitude of outdoor program-

20 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 30 • December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships Scott Patterson: Kincaid Park is the heart of Alaska skiing, where champions are born BY SCOTT PATTERSON

f there is one thing that Anchorage and Alaska-based, Icross-country skiers are good at, it is racing in Anchorage. This makes it a particularly exciting year for our local skiing community, as Kincaid Park and the Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage will be hosting U.S. Cross-Country Skiing Nationals in early January, which also serve as Olympic trials. Last time Anchorage held national-caliber races in 2014, having a connection to the city corresponded to good results for many top-level athletes. In one race, eight of the top 10 finishers had lived in Anchorage. The snow, trails and weather are ingrained and part of our memories. The famous biting wind of Kincaid that makes 20 degrees feel like minus 20 degrees is a predictable feature for those of us who’ve grown up training in it – nothing to be COURTESY SCOTT PATTERSON alarmed by. At U.S. Nationals in 2009, when it was minus 4 Scott Patterson celebrates a victory in the Skiathlon, held at Birch Hills Ski Area degrees and too cold to race, some local skiers still had the in Fairbanks. Patterson may be among the Alaskan elite skiers racing at U.S. brilliant idea to ski a lap in their underwear. Waxing in the Nationals for a potential spot on the U.S. Winter Olympic team. old missile bunker, which is the norm for most big races at Kincaid, reminds me of the days of leaving sweat stains on the tired petitive set of races. However, my hope is to qualify for the Olympics workout equipment inside during Alaska Winter Stars club practices through the World Cup pathway, remaining in Europe for the Tour while I was in high school. Even now, Winter Star coach Jan’s Polish de Ski rather than returning to Anchorage. accent echoes through the bunker when I think about it: “More dips, For a Nordic skier, Kincaid Park – with its extensive network of work harder!” trails, snow-making infrastructure, frequent grooming, and race-ven- Every terrain feature at Kincaid Park brings back training or rac- ue history – is the heart of Anchorage. This January, the Anchorage ing memories. I raced to my first Junior National victory in Anchor- skiing community will be out in force, organizing races and cheer- age in 2008. As a high school sophomore during those Junior Na- ing on athletes, showing the U.S. skiing community how important tionals, I had no idea how to handle all the nerves I had built up; my this sport is to our state. My own dad will be rejoining the legendary logical outlet was to sprint every punchy hill. Luckily, the race was “Green Grunt” volunteers of the organizing committee; even the fact only a short 5 kilometers and I had enough fitness to make it to the that he now lives several thousand miles from Anchorage couldn’t end. For every moment of achievement, there are 10 more memories keep him away. The nature of the competition – high-level races, open from training at Kincaid, filled with athletic suffering. Those hills I to all athletes but conferring Olympic selection spots to the most elite sprinted up during Junior Nationals are the same ones I have been – will undoubtedly bring emotion and excitement to the week of races, dropped on countless times before and since. Only days ago, I was and Kincaid will be the beating heart of the U.S. ski world. repeatedly dusted in 15-second speeds with Alaska Pacific University This is an open invitation, an open request: Come to Kincaid the teammates on those trails; this is relatively standard as I focus on first week in January. Become part of the journey for the high school longer distances. It made me feel right at home, and was therefore a racer stepping up a level, the young skier chasing a World Junior good confidence booster before leaving for the World Cup season. Championship qualification, or the future Olympian cementing This season will be my first time starting on the World Cup rather their spot. Wish the racers luck, and cheer them on loudly; I’ve seen than with domestic racing. The World Cup represents one track the community rally around us Olympic hopefuls more than ever to Olympic selection for the 2018 Games in PyeongChang, South before, and your words of support are appreciated by racers at every Korea. Most of the Olympic team will be selected from World Cup level. Even if I’m not physically on the scene at Kincaid, I know I’ll results; there will only be a few spots remaining to be selected from be drawing on the energy of the races. Come be a part of the com- the January races in Anchorage. Athletes will get to stare each other munity that every Anchorage skier is proud to represent. in the eye, battling for elusive tickets to PyeongChang. With all those Scott Patterson is an Alaska skier currently on the World Cup, who emotions running rampant, it will be an exciting time and a com- races for Alaska Pacific University.

December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 31 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 21 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships Organizing Committee Thank you for your participation. The U.S Cross Country Ski Championships committee has worked hard to bring you a fantastic event! In addition to this committee, there are many more in- dividuals working with this event. For a complete list to include the numerous other positions and volunteers please log on to: www.usnationals2018.com.

Chair of Organizing Committee ...... Joey Caterinichio USSA Bid Preparation ...... Joey Caterinichio Race Secretary ...... Steve Patterson Assistant Race Secretary...... Diane Moxness Event Logo ...... Dawn Gerety Event Website ...... Amber Adams & Jan Hazen Volunteer Coordinator ...... Lauri Bassett Chief of Competition ...... Matt Pauli Chief of Course ...... Anson Moxness Course Maps ...... Brian Looney Timing Contractor ...... Superior Timing Chief of Announcing ...... Adam Vernier Chief(s) of Media ...... Josh Niva & Elizabeth Arnold Chief of Grooming ...... Craig Norman Chief of Ceremonies ...... Holly Brooks & Rob Whitney Chief(s) of Stadium ...... Buzz Scher & Trevor Clayton Chief of Banquet ...... Calisa Kastning Chief of Start ...... Lin Hinderman ConocoPhillips Liaison ...... Natalie Lowman Chief of Finish ...... Peter Johnson Municipality of Anchorage Liaison ...... Brad Cooke Chef of Course Control ...... Brandon Fontana Visit Anchorage Liaison ...... Marlene Geils Chief of Venue ...... Tamra Kornfield & Laurie Bassett USSA Représentative ...... Robert Lazzaroni Chief of Medical ...... Dr. Peter Mjos Compétition Technical Delegate ...... Matt Laue Chief of Timing ...... Joey Caterinichio & Tim Brabets Competition Asst. Technical Delegate ...... Jim Tervo

22 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 32 • December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com Kikkan, continued from Page 6 has forged more opportunities for women and skiers in the United States than any other cross-country skier. The United States’ new- found success largely relies on Kikkan breaking barriers, being a role model and paving the way for top results. While pulling up a team of young skiers, she has helped the United States rise to the top as one of the Top 5 cross-country ski countries in the world. Kikkan paved the way and has mentored World Cup winners Jessie Diggins, Sophie Caldwell, Sadie Bjornsen and soon-to-be others – and she continues to build camaraderie and success at the highest level. In Kikkan’s 20-plus years of Nordic racing and years of being on the U.S. Ski Team, her contributions to the United States are unprec- edented. Kikkan is the only American to have won a Chrystal Globe, the Overall Female Sprinter in the World, multiple medals at the World Cup level and attend five Olympics. Her contributions continue off the trails with her community service work, As president of the Fast and Female U.S. chapter, Kikkan organized and participated in multiple Fast and Female inspirational camps in the United States, touching the lives of thousands of young girls from all over the nation. When I sit back and think about all the MATT WHITCOMB years I have had the privilege to be part or witness, I don’t just think about her success, instead I think about what an amazing person Kikkan is and her top-notch character. Kikkan, you are an inspiration and an amazing friend. Bring home the gold! Alaska is so proud of you. KIKKAN RANDALL STATS Born: Salt Lake City Utah, Dec. 31, 1982 Years on APU team: 18 World Cup Career began: 2001 U.S. Ski team: 13 years

American Firsts • First World Cup women’s podium • First World Cup women’s victory • First World Championships women’s gold medal • First Olympic women’s Top 10 • First World Cup overall women’s discipline leader • First World Cup overall Sprint Champion

Career Highlights 2017 World Championships bronze medalist (Sprint F, Lahti) 2013 World champion (ladies team sprint with Jessie Diggins) 2012, 2013 & 2014 World Cup Overall Sprint champion 2009 World Championships silver medalist (W’s sprint) 13 x World Cup victories, 27 x World Cup podiums 4 x Olympic Top 10s 17 x U.S. National Champion 4 x Olympian (soon fifth!)

Other random facts and accomplishments Kikkan can ride a unicycle • Kikkan was born on New Year’s Eve • Kikkan became a mom to son Breck in April 2016 • Fastest woman in Alaska on skis 74.14 mph (1994, Speed Skiing) • Foot Locker Western Regional Cross Country Running Championships: 10th place (1997) • 7-time Alaska State High School track champion (800m, 1600m, 3200m) • 3-time Alaska State High School cross-country champion • 7-time U.S. Junior National Ski champion • Winter Goodwill Games: 2000 U.S. team member • Alaska Gatorade Track Athlete of the Year (2000, 2001) • Anchorage Daily News Prep Athlete of the Year (2000, 2001) • NCCSEF National Skier of the Year (2001) • East Anchorage High School Graduate – Summa Cum Laude (2001) • USSA Cross-Country Skier of the Year (2008-2014) • Alaska Sports Hall of Fame Inductee (2011) • Mount Marathon winner in 2011 (following in her mother’s footsteps- she won it in 1975 and Aunt Betsy won it three years in a row in 1979-1981) • World Cup and Olympic stats prior to 2017-18 season beginning PHOTOS COURTESY KIKKAN RANDALL — Olympic Games starts 12 (7 individual + 5 team) At top, Kikkan Randall admires her second straight FIS Sprint Crystal — World Cup championships starts 32 (21 individual + 11 team) — World Ski Championships podiums 3 (2 individual + 1 team) Globe for World Cup sprint racing. Above, Randall celebrates a third- — World Championships victories 1 (1 team) place World Cup relay finish with teammates Jessie Diggins, Holly — World Cup starts 196 (individual) Brooks and Liz Stephen, in Gallivare, Sweden. The 2018 PyeongChang — World Cup podiums 28 (individual) — World Cup victories 13 (individual) Winter Olympics will be Randall's last, as she plans to retire after the season is over. December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 33 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 23 24 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 34 • December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships What's at stake: The U.S. Nationals are actually competitions within competitions

FLYING POINT PHOTOGRAPHY American Junior skiers Katherine Ogden, Julia Kern, Hailey Swirlbul and Hannah Halverson made the first podium ever, a silver medal, at the World Juniors in 2017. They are among the skiers to watch during the 2018 U.S. Nationals in Anchorage.

he 2018 U.S. Cross Country Nationals is an open event that pic Team. Skiers to watch: Scott Patterson, Alaska; Patrick Caldwell, invites clubs and racers from all around the country to compete Vermont; Brian Gregg, Minnesota; Tyler Kornfield, Alaska; Tadd Thead to head with the top skiers from our nation. Elliott, Colorado; Matt Gelso, California, David Norris, Alaska; Kris Many elite teams will be picked from this competition. Freeman, Vermont; Reese Hanneman, Alaska; Logan Hanneman, Alaska; Caitlin Gregg, Minnesota; Caitlin Patterson, Alaska/Ver- mont; Chelsea Holmes, Alaska; Kaitlyn Miller, Vermont; Anne The 2018 Olympics Hart, Minnesota/Vermont; Erika Flowers, Vermont; Jennie Bender, Montana; Becca Rorabough, Alaska; and many other outstanding PyeongChang, South Korea athletes not mentioned. Feb. 9- 25, 2018

The U.S. XC Nationals will serve as one of the tryout events to pick World Juniors and U23 Championships the 2018 Olympic team. Selection for the Olympic team: In addition to tryout races, other criteria is also used, including Olympic FIS Goms-Kandersteg, Switzerland points, FIS World Cup Cross Country Competitions, Discretions Jan. 27-Feb. 2, 2018 and Super Tour Points. While our top World Cup athletes such as Kikkan Randall, Jessie The World Juniors and U23 Championships feature the nation’s Diggins, Sadie Bjornson, Erik Bjornson and Sophie Caldwell will re- best skiers, ages 18-23. Eleven women and 11 men are selected main in Europe racing the World Cups, many other athletes will be between the two teams. The US XC Nationals Championships is the racing in Anchorage, Alaska, vying for the extra spots on the Olym- sole selection series for this event.

December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 35 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 25 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships

Skiers to watch: Hannah Halverson, California; Julia Kern, Mas- sachusetts; Katherine Ogden, Vermont; Hailey Swirlbul, Colorado; Leah Lange, Utah; Vivian Hett, Minnesota; Molly Gellert, Alaska; Gus Schumacher, Alaska; Luke Jager, Alaska; Cully Brown, Colo- rado; Adam Martin, Minnesota; Ezra Smith, Sydney Palmer-Leger, Wyatt Gebhardt, Canyon Tobin, Alaska; Noel Keefe, Ben Ogden, Nolan Herzog, Ti Donaldson, Alaska; and many other outstanding athletes not mentioned. U18 Nordic Junior Countries Competition

Vuokatti, Finland Jan. 21-31, 2018

The US XC Nationals will serve as the sole selection races for the U18 Nordic Junior Countries Team. The nation’s best 16- and 17-year-olds – six female and six male – will be selected. Skiers to watch are all the young juniors, ages 16 and 17. This age group can bring many surprises to each competition every year, so who will be COURTESY JAN BURON selected remains to be seen. Alaska Winter Stars skier Gus Schumacher rounds a corner during the 2017 U.S. Nationals in Soldier Hollow, Utah. He is among the junior The Junior Nationals skiers to watch at the 2018 U.S. Nationals in Anchorage.

Soldier Hollow, Utah prequalifies for Junior Nationals. Skiers to watch: This age group is March 5-10, 2018 14-19. All skiers will be vying for this list.

Junior Nationals is the premier junior event with, more than 400 The World Junior & U23 teams along with the U18 Nations Cup Junior skiers, and will take place in Soldier Hollow, Utah. The U.S. team will be announced on Jan. 6, 2018, at the U.S. National Ban- XC Nationals serves one of many tryout races for this event. Skiers quet, hosted by ConocoPhillips. that compete at U.S. Nationals are awarded points, and any skier For more information visit. www.ussa.org, click on Nordic, click on making the Top-20 Junior ranking list at the end of the competition Cross Country, click on Coaches, and click on Criteria. Holiday Party Packages TRAILBLAZING. This season give the gift

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26 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 36 • December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage events

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28 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 38 • December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com

©2016 BURGERFI International, LLC. BURGERFI® and the BURGERFI® logo are registered trademarks of Restaurant Development Group, LLC. BURGERFI system consists of restaurants owned by BURGERFI International, LLC. affiliates, and BURGERFI franchisees. 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships Out on the town: Fuel your performance and find some fun while in Anchorage

By MELISSA DeVAUGHN fter the training, the travel and the rush of Aracing (or spectating) has come to a close, sightseeing might seem like an afterthought. Still, this is Alaska, and if you’re a visitor here, you’ll see Alaska’s largest city is far more than just a skier’s dream. Turns out there is fantastic food to fuel your energy, great day trips to explore the wilds beyond and lots of shops and vendors to check out while on the city streets. Make the most of your limited visiting time by getting oriented at the downtown Fourth Avenue Visitor Center (www.anchorage. net). Located in a quaint little log cabin, this is “information central” for every brand of adventure and the start of a self-guided walking tour through downtown Anchorage – pick up the tour brochure inside. Who isn’t starving after burn- JODYO PHOTOS / VISIT ANCHORAGE ing so many calories skiing? January is a great time to see northern lights, like these over Anchorage. A drive to Flattop at night can For a city with a population just offer excellent night-sky viewing. around 300,000, the cuisine scene in Anchorage is quite impres- sive. The dining options range from classic Alaska seafood to Pacific crown jewel of all the city’s parks. However, on the south end of the Rim-inspired creations to locally grown and sourced vegetables and city, the Hillside Trail system, off of Abbott Road, offers some great meats. There’s Italian, Chinese, Thai, Korean, Mexican, Brazilian, skiing conditions, as well as a downhill ski area and ski-jump facil- Indian, African – even one restaurant featuring food from Nepal and ity. The trails are hilly and scenic, and provide some alternative op- Tibet. So, feed that post-race hunger and find some fine food. tions for those who might want to try something other than Kincaid. In case you hadn’t noticed, the views surrounding Anchorage To explore the other activities and dining options available in are a bit spectacular, especially in winter with the low light and the Anchorage, go to www.anchorage.net. pink alpenglow lighting up the slopes. Also, January is high time for northern lights viewing, so keep your eyes to the sky once the sun sets — you just might be in for a treat. COFFEE While you focus on the racing at Kincaid, there are outdoors lovers hiking, climbing and biking their way along the many beautiful For a quick cup of Joe (or hot tea), look no further than downtown. trails and paths that grace the city. If your schedule permits, check Numerous coffee shops are located in Downtown, providing several out some of the many options to enjoy Alaska’s natural spaces with a opportunities to rest weary feet. visit to the Alaska Public Lands Information Center (www.alaska- • Kaladi Brothers Café is conveniently situated on the corner of the centers.gov/anchorage.cfm) in the old Federal building at Fourth Alaska Center for the Performing Arts at Sixth Avenue and C Street; Avenue and F Street. Plan everything you need, from a simple, safe- 907-344-6510. from-avalanches day hike to a weeklong skiing adventure at Alyeska • SteamDot Coffee at Williwaw (which, incidentally is a great din- Ski Resort. Winter hours at the Center are limited (open 10 a.m.-5 ing option) is convenient and tasty. It’s at 609 F St.; (907) 868-2000 p.m., Tuesdays-Fridays), so plan accordingly. • Cafe 817 & Muffin Man Bakery, 817 W. Sixth Ave., is the perfect Anchorage’s parks are some of the best places to enjoy nature place for breakfast, lunch or to enjoy homemade baked goods; 907- closer to creature comforts. In fact, Kincaid Park is considered the 279-6836.

December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 39 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 29 2018 U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships

DINING • Red Chair Café, • Glacier BrewHouse located downtown, features Alaska seafood is a small cafe with and crafted ales, as well many healthy options as wood-fired pizzas. that will fill you up 737 W. Fifth Ave.; 907- without putting you 792-3729. into a sleep coma. Try • Humpy’s Great the gluten-free kale Alaskan Alehouse serves bake skillet or the more than 40 beers, quinoa pancakes. The house-style fettuccini, quirky vibe will want live music and football you to sit back and all day Sunday. 610 W. relax while watching Sixth Ave.; 907-276- the eclectic people 2337. CATHRYN POSEY / VISIT ANCHORAGE of Anchorage. 337 E. • Williwaw, Humpy’s Spenard Roadhouse's salmon salad is a Fourth Ave., newest addition to its protein packed recovery food worthy of • Spenard Roadhouse family of awesome eat- any elite skier. is a local and slightly eries, is just next door upscale diner, but still and serves finer foods in CATHRYN POSEY / VISIT ANCHORAGE very casual. Once you step into this quirky restaurant it feels like you a beautifully remodeled There are no shortage of excellent pizza just walked on set of a Wes Anderson movie. The breakfast choices downtown building. 609 places in Anchorage, including Brew- are limited but delicious. A go-to for the health nut: fruit and yogurt F St.; 907-868-2000. House (shown above), as well as Moose's parfait or the corned beef hash. Other options that reside on the • Orso Ristorante is an Tooth, Bear Tooth Theatrepub and Hearth, menu should not be overlooked either. The Roadhouse only serves upscale restaurant that among others. breakfast items on the weekends from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 1049 W. is good for celebrations Northern Lights Blvd., 907-770-7623 and pasta cravings. 737 W. Fifth Ave.; 907-222-3232. • For diner lovers, Jackie’s Place is across from Bear Tooth The- • 49th State Brewing Co.’s in-house brewery is a great place to relax atrepub (also a great place to eat and/or catch a movie), and has a on a cold winter night. Enjoy some munchies with a cold-brew, small wide selection of breakfast options with more than 20 omelets to batch ale. 717 W. Third Ave.; 907-277-7727. choose from – including egg-white selections. This is a must for the • New Sagaya Markets is an organic grocery with an eat-in or take- whole family. As one reviewer flagged it, “The best diner-style in -An out deli. Good for a healthy grab and go. Three locations: 900 W. chorage,” it’s no wonder why locals have kept this restaurant under 13th Ave.; 907-274-6173 or 3700 Old Seward Hwy.; 907-561-5173 or the radar. 2636 Spenard Road, 907-274-3211 1101 Whitney Road; 907-272-5173. • Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria is always crowded with locals, and GEAR SHOPPING with good reason. The pizza is fantastic and beer goes down smooth. No reservations taken. 3300 Old Seward Hwy.; 907-258-2537. Looking for last-minute gear or forgot to bring the right wax with • Middle Way Cafe is a perfect option for the vegan athlete, but also you? Within walking distance of each other is REI, 1200 W. North- with light breakfast choices from the Farmer Starter, a traditional ern Lights Blvd., or Alaska Mountaineering & Hiking, 2633 Spenard eggs, meat and fruit meal, to more hefty meals like the Breakfast Road, a locally owned option that outfits most of the high-level ski- Burrito. You can chow on organic food while washing it down with ers in the Anchorage area and beyond. their protein-packed smoothies or juices. Middle Way is conveniently located a few doors down from REI so you can pick up that ARTS, MUSEUMS, THEATERS Gu or energy bar you need for race day. Breakfast runs until 11 on weekdays. 1200 W. Northern Lights Blvd., next to REI and Hearth. • First Fridays Art Walks are a popular wintertime event to while 907-272-6433 away the dark evenings. On the first Friday of every month, local art • Hearth is the latest pizzeria to open with wood-fired pizzas, fresh galleries and many small shops stay open late, featuring a new artist veggies and small dishes for the health-conscious diner. Hearth also solo or group show. It’s a great way to see Anchorage, socialize and offers a wide range of brews and beverages. 1200 W. Northern Lights enjoy an array of food and beverages. Blvd., in the same shopping center as REI. 907-222-0888 • Catch an independent film while sipping a beer and devouring • Yak & Yeti, also in the same Northern Lights area where some of a specialty pizza at Bear Tooth Theatrepub, 1230 W. 27th Ave. Visit Anchorage's best eateries abound, offers Himalayan-inspired food in www.beartooththeatre.com or call 907-276-4200. a cozy setting. The cafe is at 1360 W. Northern Lights Blvd., and the • The Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center provides a contin- restaurant is just around teh corner at 3301 Spenard Road. 907-743- ued schedule of locally inspired and international exhibitions as well 9090 as traditional displays of art, local history and educational fun for • The Rustic Goat is a window-filled neighborhood restaurant and kids. www.anchoragemuseum.org. brewpub featuring some of the best food in Anchorage. Enjoy such • Alaska Center for the Performing Arts is home to three theatres treats as in-house cured and a variety of perfor- meats, handmade pasta mances, Native art and and great local brews on more. 621 W. Sixth Ave.; tap. 2800 Turnagain St., 907-263-2787. 907-334-8100

30 2018 U.S. National Cross Country Ski Championships 40 • December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com December 2017 • COAST • www.coast-magazine.com • 41 Unlocking Alaska’s Energy Resources

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