By Hub News Staff Reports
The Scott West Nordic ski team had a strong showing at the Twin Cities Nordic Conference (TCNC) Championships at Theodore Wirth Park on Monday, with the girls’ team placing third overall (out of 12 teams). Highland Park claimed the girls’ title, with Central finishing second. On the boys’ side, Scott West battled fiercely against St. Paul Como Park, a team that had consistently edged them out for third place all season. This time, Scott West stayed ahead, but Mound Westonka narrowly took third place by just two points, leaving Scott West in fourth. St. Paul Central won the boys' championship, followed by Highland Park.
Classic Races Set the Tone
The classic race started quietly, with many Scott West skiers competing solo due to early bib draws. Tirzah Juaire, the second girl released, overtook the first skier and raced mostly alone. Her 18:16 finish in the classic race was a personal record (PR) on this course. Isaac Bemmels, the first skier released, also raced solo and made a statement for the team. Both pursuit teams finished their classic races in third place heading into the sprint relays.
Sprint Relays Bring Excitement
In the girls’ sprint relay, Izzy Haugen and Anayah Hill showcased their skills, particularly on turns, where they outmaneuvered Mound Westonka and Math & Science Academy to claim a historic third-place finish. Their performance earned them All-Conference Honorable Mention and 153 points for the team.
On the boys’ side, Jackson Nagel and Elias Newson faced a tough challenge from Mound Westonka. Despite feeling under the weather, Nagel handed off to Newson in a near tie with Mound Westonka. Newson pushed hard on the final stretch but finished less than a second behind in fifth place, scoring 147 points.
Skate Pursuits Deliver Personal Bests
Scott West skiers showed determination in the skate pursuit, setting several personal records. Juaire set a new girls’ team 5K skate record with a time of 15:53, securing 14th place overall and earning All-Conference Honorable Mention. Addy Giles set PRs in both the classic and skate races, earning All-Conference Honorable Mention with her 18th place finish.
On the boys' side, Isaac Bemmels placed 11th, setting new personal records. Caden Riga and Ben Pint finished 15th and 19th, respectively, each achieving PRs in both classic and skate. Bemmels, Riga, and Pint all earned All-Conference Honorable Mention honors.
Scott West will compete at Hyland on January 30, with sprint relays and distance races on the schedule. The team is also preparing for the Section 1A Championships on February 4, where varsity skiers will compete, and teammates will provide race support.



