Submitted by VHS Nordic Ski Team Coach
It was a weekend of firsts as 14 Buccaneer skiers hit the road to travel to Birch Hill for a town
series race in Fairbanks. Not only did it set the stage for the first trip of the season, but it also
marked the team’s first time on skis, all while competing in an unfamiliar event.
Of the 14 that traveled, 9 were entered in the competition. The race entailed a 1k sprint where
skiers were entered into a bracket based on their speed from each heat. The first race saw
senior Rafe Caruthers skiing against several University of Alaska competitors. Despite the gap
in years of training and unfamiliarity with this type of event, Rafe held his own, while possessing
excellent technique with ice cold composure, and finishing close behind.
Juniors Ezekiel James, Morgan Hamilton, and Sophomore Gabe Caruthers surpassed competitors as they made it to the final heat of their divisions. Displaying unfaltering
determination and endurance, each of them finished the sprint three separate times leaving
everything on the course. Near the finish line of their 3rd and final sprint Ezekiel and Gabe dug
deep and passed the leader of their heat with a strong finish.
While the skiers were competing the other 5 Buccaneer skiers launched into their first practice
on skis for the season. Even with the simple activity of being out in the elements on skis, the
excitement from the new skiers was fully evident. They fought off the cold and stayed out to
cheer on all their teammates, showing excellent encouragement, and school spirit. It will be fun
to see the lengths they take in learning the sport and the goals they reach in the months to
come.
Great job all around! GO BUCS!