The Far West team
Two weeks ago I was at Soldier Hollow, Utah cheering on our Far West Nordic Team at the Junior National Championships. These children are some of the best cross country skiers in the nation, and I was excited and inspired that my daughter, Skyler Flora, qualified for the team.
As a mom of an intensely competitive athlete, she’s cross-country runner too, I am constantly amazed at the dedication and commitment our children make to a sport. Even when it means many hours of painful training, and sometimes injuries, they continue to train year round to reach their goals. This year, the lack of snow, meant the cross-country skiers were cycling, running and roller skiing through January to stay in top form.
Peter Holmes placed 3rd
It was a blast being in Utah supporting these wonderful athletes, watching their confidence grow as well as their friendships. Interestingly, during the race season they compete against each other, but once they make the Far West Team they are teammates and are working together for the benefit of the team. These children learn more than just skiing, they learn about themselves, their strengths, weaknesses and how far they can push themselves.
Our Far West Team is small, 30 kids compared to some teams that have more than 50, but they turned in great results this year. They brought home 7 medals for top 10 finishes. Top finishers included Austin Meng, Katrin Larusson, Annika Taylor, Sam Zabell, Skyler Flora and Bria Riggs from Truckee/Donner area schools, and Dylan Syben, Peter Holmes and Patrick McElravey from North Tahoe.
To top it off, Far West coaching staff includes two past Olympians, and several who have trained with the US Ski Team. All are committed skiers who love the sport and working with our children. Far West also brings two talented chefs to the JO’s with them and the kids absolutely love the food.
Skyler Flora
Skyler makes me humble and very proud. I am blown away by her focus and determination. When I was her age, 15, I don’t know if I could have achieved her level of excellence. Her confidence is absolute in her ability to reach the top of her sport.
Next year the Junior Nationals will be in Alaska! While I probably won’t be there to cheer them on, hopefully both of my children will make the team, and I will be here in Truckee glued to the computer, happy that our Tahoe/Truckee kids have the opportunity to become involved in cross-country ski racing, a sport that brings out the best in them.
Gabi, Savannah and Skyler
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