The Detroit Lakes alpine ski team achieved commendable third-place finishes for both boys and girls at the Breakaways Invite held at Powder Ridge on January 8, 2024. The event showcased the team’s strength, with the girls accumulating a total of 226 team points and the boys achieving 281 points.
Leading the boys’ team, Tristan Bristlin secured first place with an impressive time of 46.04 seconds. His performance was pivotal in pushing the team towards their overall ranking. Other notable contributions came from Owen Anderson, who placed ninth with a time of 51.97 seconds, and Mason Kemper, who finished 15th at 56.08 seconds. The rest of the boys’ team included Beckett Anderson (21st, 1:00.51), Brayton Bremseth (25th, 1:02.17), Rory Steinert (28th, 1:04.34), Lance Skalin (33rd, 1:06.67), and Beau Bjerke (35th, 1:14.08).
On the girls’ side, Alexa Bristlin delivered a strong performance, finishing third with a time of 52.15 seconds. This significant result was complemented by Marlo Schmitz, who placed ninth at 57.15 seconds, and Merida Jansen, finishing 16th with a time of 59.94 seconds. Other contributors to the girls’ scores included Ruby Maki (29th, 1:13.82), Lilly Graham (33rd, 1:26.57), Ella Schuld (34th, 1:27.53), Ella Johnson (37th, 1:29.22), and Dassah Dahlin (43rd, 1:37.96).
The team’s efforts at the Breakaways Invite reflect their dedication and skill on the slopes, as they continue to build momentum for the season. The Lakers are set to compete next at Giant Ridge in Biwabik on January 16, 2024, where they hope to improve upon their recent performances.
In the team standings, the girls finished behind Brainerd with 264 points and Westonka with 230 points. The boys’ team faced similar competition, with Lakes Area leading with 293 points and Brainerd closely trailing at 288 points.
With their sights set on upcoming events, both teams will aim to enhance their performances and secure better results as the season progresses.
