BOYS’ NORDIC SKIING

Gilford first, Bow second

Key players: Gilford – Josh Valentine (12:06, first), Mark Young (12:42), Seth Valpey (13:32), Sander Valpey (14:18); Belmont – Zach Ennis (13:38); Bow – Sully Blair (14:11), Robby Ciotti (15:18), Christian McDonald (15:30), Michael Perry (15:45); Kearsarge – Michael Salo (14:28), Hunter Burns (14:46), Trevor Pauling (14:48); Hopkinton – Simon Doneski (14:34)

Highlights/key moments: On a fast course at Proctor Academy, Gilford swept the podium and Kearsarge narrowly missed second place falling just short of Bow in a nine team, 5K race.

Coach’s quote: “I was happy to see how close our boys came to Bow. We know that we've got some strong athletes and new skiers, so seeing how we measure up to Gilford and Bow gives us something to work towards.” – Kearsarge’s Kevin Lee

GIRLS’ NORDIC SKIING

Kearsarge first, Bow second

Key players: Kearsarge – Maggie Lee (16:11), Maddie Cook (16:57), Marliese Baer (17:33), Hayden Keene (19:14); Bow – Sohani Demain (16:23), Isabella Urbina (17:06), Brianna Boone (19:10), Gwen Mollind (19:52); Hopkinton – Emma Rothe (17:35), Carley Kanter (18:11)

Highlights/key moments: In a very close race, Kearsarge managed three in the top five and Bow placed four in the top 15, two teams that will battle for the state championship come March.

Coach’s quote: “We know we have three very strong skiers in Maggie, Maddie and Marliese and we’re trying to find out who will be our fourth. Hayden Keene has really come on strong this season and she’s set her sights on placing well come states.” – Kearsarge’s Kevin Lee