Far West Team Makes History at US Ski and Snowboard 2024 Cross Country Junior Nationals
Far West Team Makes History at Junior Nationals
Submitted by Kathi Kirkeby
The Far West Team etched a new chapter in its history at the US Ski and Snowboard 2024 Cross Country Junior Nationals, held in Lake Placid, New York, the week of March 11th-16th. Considered the most prestigious national competition for U16, U18, and U20 skiers, Junior Nationals brings the top junior competitors from across the country together for a week of racing. Despite a week of ever-changing conditions—snow, rain, fog, and sunshine—the Far West Team put together its best historical performance, thanks to a combination of fantastic skiing by the athletes and meticulously prepared skis by the wax tech team.
Mammoth was well-represented by a talented group of skiers: seniors Dane Karch, Ella Walker, and Cabot Godoy; sophomore Olivia Karch; and freshman Pearl Johnson. The week was filled with highlights, including Dane Karch’s impressive second-place finish in the U18 Boys’ 10km Classic race. Despite challenging conditions that saw many skiers DNF, Ella Walker persevered for a well earned 83rd-place finish in the U18 girls’ 10km Classic. Karch and Godoy also had a strong showing in the Sprint race, placing 12th and 17th respectively. Olivia Karch and Pearl Johnson skied hard in the U16 Women’s 5km Skate race, finishing 29th and 51st, respectively. Johnson continued to battle for a respectable 46th place in the 5km Classic race, with Karch close behind in 59th. The week culminated in a spectacular performance by the Far West U18 mixed relay team, which included Dane Karch. They fought hard and skied to first place, earning the national title, capping off a truly fantastic week for all Far West skiers.
Coach Meaghan Thompson has guided the Mammoth athletes throughout their winter training in preparation for Junior Nationals. Supporting the Mammoth athletes in Lake Placid were Mike Karch, Kathi Kirkeby, and former Mammoth Nordic Head Coach Ben Higgins, who all served on the Far West staff. The Mammoth Lakes community is incredibly proud of these talented athletes for their dedication and success at the Junior National Championships.
