Courtesy of VHS Nordic Ski Coach – The VHS Buccaneer Nordic Ski Team wrapped up last weekend at Regionals with a demanding and rewarding two-day competition that showcased just how much this group has grown over the course of the season.
Day one featured a challenging 7.5k classic race, made up of a 5k lap followed by a 2.5k lap that ended with a hard sprint to the finish line. The long course tested endurance, technique, and mental toughness, and the Bucs rose to the challenge. Battling through fatigue and tough racing, the team showed grit and determination from start to finish. Top results for the Buccaneers were secured by two sophomore skiers. Zane Caruthers led the boys with a 13th- place overall finish, while Makena Wisnor matched that effort on the girls’ side with a 13th-place overall finish as well. With performances like these, the future is bright for the Bucs.
Day two brought a change of pace with a fun and fast 4x3k skate relay. The 3k course was quick and technical, setting the stage for exciting racing. This year, the Bucs were able to field three boys’ relay teams and two girls’ relay teams. Both the boys’ and girls’ relay teams skied with confidence and intensity, earning each top team third place overall finishes.
The 3rd place girls relay team included Makena Wisnor, Zooey Baksis, Ava Mitchell, and Hailey Major. The 3rd place boys relay team consisted of Gabe Caruthers, James Humphrey, Zane Caruthers, and Gray Odencrans.
At the end of the weekend's combined team times, both the Buccaneer boys’ and girls’ teams finished third overall, a result that reflects the tremendous improvement shown throughout the season. This year has been defined by resilience finding ways to keep pushing through unexpected challenges, limited snow, and difficult conditions. The Bucs proved they are more than capable of rising to the moment with an impressive regional performance.
This weekend carried special significance for the nine seniors competing in their final regional race as Buccaneers: Hailey Major, Gabe Caruthers, Gray Odencrans, James Humphrey, Braiden Williams, Erik Vincent, Oliver Ownby, Reggie Baksis, and Dennis Baron. Through a season defined by resilience, these athletes have been the foundation of the team showing up day after day to train in the cold, pushing through tough dryland workouts while waiting for snow, and refusing to let setbacks dictate their effort or attitude. They set the tone for what it means to be a Buccaneer, creating a supportive and driven team environment while constantly challenging each other to improve faster and ski stronger with every race. Their leadership,
perseverance, and commitment were on full display all weekend, and their impact on the program will be felt long after the finish line of their final regional race.
As always, the Buccaneers stood out not only for their racing, but for their unmatched support and team spirit. From the start line to the finish, teammates cheered each other on, knowing that effort, unity, and support are what truly matter most. This weekend was a powerful reminder of who the Bucs are and what they’re capable of. Go Bucs!