Lander 2025 Jan 25

Sheridan Boys Team Finishes 3rd Overall, Surpassed Only by the Kelly Walsh and Jackson Ski Teams!

The race was originally scheduled to take place at Beaver Creek. However, due to cold temperatures and harsh wind chill, the race director relocated it to the lower Lander Golf Course. Athletes skied two loops for a total of 8 km. Following yesterday’s sprint races, fatigue was definitely a factor for many competitors. Lander’s snow conditions, while adequate, couldn’t compare to Sheridan’s—several spots were dirty, and the compact snow layer was only about 1-2 inches thick. This was the first time we had skied on that section of the golf course. The course was fast, featuring lots of flat sections and relatively gentle climbs and descents.

Leading the Sheridan boys team was SeanKyle, who finished 13th overall in 28:11, helping secure an impressive 3rd-place team result. Sean had an outstanding race, especially given he was still recovering from Tuesday’s gym training, which heavily taxed his legs, glutes, and shoulders. Just two seconds behind SeanKyle was Gabe, who also performed admirably. Gabe had competed in a 15k race the previous Sunday and immediately traveled with the All-State Band, making his strong finish remarkable. Justin McDowell placed 16th and, like yesterday, demonstrated exceptional strength. Abe and Henry rounded out the top five Sheridan athletes, finishing in 21st and 23rd places respectively, to complete the team scoring.

On the women’s side, Kayley delivered an outstanding performance, finishing 3rd overall. The race was won by Olivia Tolson from Pinedale, marking a significant victory for Pinedale, as it had been many years since one of their athletes stood atop the podium. Livie in 2nd place for team Sheridan secured 14th place overall with a strong comeback after feeling disheartened yesterday, making her result especially satisfying. Brynn, finishing 3rd for team Sheridan, completed the scoring athletes, allowing the girls' team to achieve a 5th-place finish overall—placing ahead of Laramie, Pinedale, and Kelly Walsh.

A special mention goes to Logan Marshall, who looked like a completely different athlete today. His improved classic form was so striking that I mistook him for someone else several times. His finishing time confirmed his remarkable progress.

Finally, a word about Colton Stutte. Colton began skiing with us in November, and his initial practices were extremely challenging. Skiing didn’t come naturally to him—he struggled even to make it up to the campground at the base of Sibley. Yet, despite the difficulties and countless falls, Colton never gave up. Today, he skied the 8 km (5 miles) with confidence, navigating hills with ease and blending seamlessly with the other athletes. Colton exemplifies grit, perseverance, and a positive attitude. He is not only a hardworking athlete but also a considerate and respectful young man. Days like today remind us why coaching is the best profession, hands down.

Men 8k Classic (74 athletes total)

13 SeanKyle 28:11

14 Gabe Aasby 28:13

16 Justin McDowell 28:43

21 Abe Hughes 30:07

23 Henry Phillips 30:33

36 Kade Shideman 32:47

45 Andre Wei 34:48

48 Max Foreman 35:07

52 Carter McMullen 36:40

55 Will Dominguez 37:27

56 Luke Schreiber 37:42