Skiers place seventh in giant slalom

While snow and freezing fog descended upon Mt. Bachelor last Saturday, the Oregon High School ski teams lined up for the first race of the 2016 season. Sisters High School was one of 13 teams and 130 racers from across the state competing for top rankings in the alpine giant slalom race. The racers maneuvered a grueling course running the entire length of the mountain, challenging the skiers' technical skills and stamina.

Team co-captain, senior Cammi Benson, placed in the top 10, with a ninth-place overall finish.

"Cammi had two very smooth runs, her technique looked great. She was consistent and didn't make any mistakes. That's what got her into the top-10 awards," said Head Coach Greg Ausman.

Betsy Ausman, also a senior and co-captain for the alpine team, placed 17th.

"The course was really fun. It had a great flow all the way down," reported Ausman after her second run.

Rounding out the women's team for this race is sophomore Holland Hartman. She placed 42nd for her first time in a giant slalom race.

"Holland is new to ski racing, and I'm proud of how she is making improvements every time she runs a course," said Assistant Coach Kelly Davis Martin.

Returning to the men's team this year is Lachlan Wood, who placed 32nd overall.

"Lachlan is the veteran on the men's team, and he is doing great," said Coach Ausman.

Also new to ski racing this year is junior Sam Lewis, who placed 36th in his first giant slalom race.

"Sam is learning the technique of ski racing very fast. He is a natural athlete, and we expect him to climb in the rankings as he gets it figured out," said Coach Kelly.

Also new to the team is freshman John Banks, who placed 44th overall.

"John is a great skier, and will continue to improve as he masters the technical aspects of racing," said Coach Ausman.

Both the Sisters boys and girls teams ranked seventh out of 13 teams competing.

"This is a great start to the season. I'm really proud of how our kids went out there and held our own against the bigger teams," Coach Ausman said.

Next week the ski teams will be racing on a slalom course at Mt. Bachelor.