Ute Ski Team Finishes Second In Utah Invite

Monday, January 13

Soldier Hollow, Utah

TBA

University of Utah

Utah/Alaska-WinterGames Invitational (C.C.)

1/13/2003 12:00 AM | Skiing

Jan. 13, 2003

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SOLDIER HOLLOW, Utah -- The University of Utah cross country ski team finished the third and final day of the Alaska-Utah WinterGames Invitational on a high note as the Utes came from behind to finish second in the invite.

"This was an outstanding day," said Head Coach Kevin Sweeney. "I'm ecstatic with our performance today. Our team is really working together especially in today's mass start race. We skied very solid and I'm pleased with our cross country team's final results.

The men's team recorded another first-place performance in the 15 km classical event. Freshman Jess Kiesel and senior Torin Koos torched past the competition resulting in impressive second and third-place finishes. Zack Simons added to the score by skiing fifth in the event.

The women's second-place finish in the 10 km classical helped lead Utah to victory. Katrin Smigun led the pack with another placing of first, while Sara Svendsen skied to a sixth-place finish. Svendsen was unable to compete in the first day due to an illness. Sophomore Barbro Hatlevik came away with an 11th place finish.

"It was great to have our skiers perform so well in the classical," remarked Sweeney. "Jess Kiesel is a highlight to our team. Sara Svendsen was questionable, but I felt she fought hard and finished strong. Katrin is making her presence known on the college circuit. She is a fierce competitor and a real team player. Anna Sprague is improving everyday. I think we raced exceptionally well and I think we are coming together with a lot of depth and consistency."

Next up, the Ute cross country ski team will wrap up the Montana Invitational as they compete in the 15/20 km classical and 5/10 km freestyle events. The 15/20 CL will be skied Friday, Jan. 17, followed by the 5/10 FS which will be held Saturday, Jan. 18. The races will be skied in Bozeman, Mont.